Persistent Headaches and Nausea: Should You See a Doctor?

Experiencing headaches, nausea, and a desire to vomit for several consecutive days?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing dizziness and headaches for the past 2-3 days.
The pain is located at the back of my head, and sometimes it feels like it's inside my brain.
The pain persists even when I lie down.
Along with the headache, I also experience severe nausea and a strong urge to vomit, especially when lying down, which has caused me to vomit multiple times.
I thought sitting up might help, but the headache worsens.
Due to this condition, I haven't been able to sleep well at night; I feel like I'm in a half-awake state, and turning my head causes me to open my eyes.
I feel very tired but can't fall asleep.
When I close my eyes, I see a bright light, which is very distressing, and eventually, my eyes also hurt.
I would like to know if this could be related to the car accident I had three weeks ago.
I was riding a motorcycle and collided with someone, but since I was going very slowly, I only had some bruises.
However, I have no recollection of the accident, the hospital visit, or even how I managed to ride my motorcycle home.
They asked me how I got home or about the examination, but I have no memory of it.
After I got home that day, I seemed to fall asleep immediately until my family woke me up, and I felt fine upon waking.
Could this be related? I have occasionally experienced dizziness in the past and am generally sensitive to sounds, lights, and smells, but since the accident, the frequency of my dizziness and headaches seems to have increased.
Bright lights or strong odors make me feel nauseous, and I also experience more muscle soreness and fatigue.
I'm unsure if I need to see a doctor.
Previously, I was taken to see a doctor for chills, and they prescribed cold medication, but there was no improvement.
Should I go to a major hospital for further examination?

Min, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/31

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your description, it is indeed important to be cautious of subacute intracranial hemorrhage.
I recommend returning to a major hospital for a follow-up, as you may need to undergo a CT scan or MRI of the brain to rule out the risk of intracranial bleeding.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/05/31

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a very distressing combination of symptoms, including persistent headaches, nausea, and dizziness, particularly following a recent motorcycle accident. Given the complexity and severity of your symptoms, it is highly advisable that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.

First, let's break down your symptoms. Persistent headaches, especially when accompanied by nausea and vomiting, can indicate several potential underlying issues. The location of your headache, particularly if it is at the back of the head, could suggest tension-type headaches or even migraines, but given the context of your recent accident, it could also be indicative of something more serious, such as a concussion or other traumatic brain injury. The fact that you experienced a loss of memory regarding the accident itself raises concerns about possible head trauma, which should not be taken lightly.

In addition to the headaches, your sensitivity to light and sound, as well as the nausea that worsens when lying down, are significant symptoms that warrant further investigation. These could be signs of increased intracranial pressure or other neurological issues. The fact that you are experiencing difficulty sleeping and a feeling of being in a half-awake state could also be related to the stress your body is under due to these symptoms.

Given that you have a history of occasional dizziness and sensitivity to stimuli, it is possible that the accident has exacerbated these pre-existing conditions. However, the sudden increase in the frequency and intensity of your symptoms following the accident is concerning. It is crucial to rule out any serious complications, such as a concussion, intracranial hemorrhage, or other forms of brain injury.

You mentioned that you previously visited a doctor who prescribed cold medication without improvement. While it is possible that your symptoms could be related to a viral infection or other non-serious condition, the persistence and severity of your current symptoms suggest that a more thorough evaluation is necessary.
I strongly recommend that you visit a hospital or a specialized clinic where you can receive a comprehensive neurological evaluation. This may include imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI of the brain to assess for any structural abnormalities or injuries resulting from the accident. Additionally, a thorough physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests may be warranted to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.

In summary, your symptoms are concerning and could be related to your recent accident. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly to ensure that any serious conditions are identified and treated appropriately. Do not hesitate to go to the emergency room or a neurologist, as they can provide the necessary care and guidance for your situation. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms sooner rather than later is crucial.

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