Should You See a Doctor After a Fall with Head Impact?

Fell while walking, landing on the head first?

Last night, I went out with friends and accidentally fell down the stairs.
They told me they saw my head hit the ground.
I also went to the emergency room yesterday.
However, while I was sleeping, I experienced urinary incontinence.
Doctor, do I need to go for a follow-up examination?

zero nine zero one two, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/27

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

It is recommended to follow up with the neurosurgery outpatient clinic.

Reply Date: 2021/03/27

More Info

After experiencing a fall with head impact, especially if you hit your head first, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical attention if necessary. Given your situation, where you have already visited the emergency room but are now experiencing urinary incontinence during sleep, it is advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider.

Urinary incontinence following a head injury can be concerning. While it may not be directly related to the head trauma, it could indicate a neurological issue that requires further evaluation. Incontinence can sometimes be associated with increased intracranial pressure or other complications resulting from a head injury. Symptoms such as confusion, persistent headache, dizziness, or changes in consciousness should also be taken seriously.

In general, after a head injury, you should be vigilant for the following warning signs that warrant immediate medical attention:
1. Persistent or worsening headache: If your headache does not improve or becomes more severe, it could indicate complications such as bleeding or swelling in the brain.

2. Confusion or disorientation: If you experience difficulty in understanding or responding to questions, this could be a sign of a concussion or more serious brain injury.

3. Loss of consciousness: Even a brief loss of consciousness can be significant and should be evaluated by a doctor.

4. Seizures: If you experience any seizures following a head injury, you should seek immediate medical care.

5. Nausea or vomiting: While nausea can occur after a concussion, persistent vomiting is a red flag.

6. Urinary or bowel incontinence: As you mentioned, this symptom can be particularly concerning and should be evaluated.

7. Weakness or numbness: If you notice any weakness or numbness in your limbs, it could indicate a serious issue that requires urgent care.

Given that you have already been to the emergency room, it is essential to communicate any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. They may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out any internal injuries or complications.
In conclusion, while some symptoms may resolve on their own, urinary incontinence following a head injury is not typical and should be assessed by a medical professional. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries, as the brain is a delicate organ, and timely intervention can prevent serious complications. Please consider scheduling an appointment with a neurologist or your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms and receive appropriate care.

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