Head Pain After Injury: When to Seek Medical Attention

Occasional sharp pain in the head?

A few days ago, I accidentally bumped my head against the top of a door frame, specifically towards the back of my head, around the center of my hair.
Initially, it felt like a bruise that wouldn't go away.
Yesterday, when I got a haircut, the stylist applied a lot of pressure to my head while washing it.
After going home for a day, I noticed that now when I shake my head, I feel significant pain, and sometimes there’s a slight pain when I turn my head.
A few hours later, I started feeling a little dizzy.
Should I do anything about this? Thank you.

Xiao Xiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/02

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Mr.
Hsiao, based on your description, generally speaking, if there is no loss of consciousness, no anticoagulant use, or obvious local hematoma, head injuries are mostly minor.
You mentioned scalp sensitivity, which typically lasts for two weeks as the subcutaneous hematoma resolves, after which symptoms should improve.
Close observation is necessary this week.
If any of the following occur, consider delayed bleeding and seek emergency care: (1) worsening vision, seeing double (diplopia), or unequal pupil size.
(2) Clear fluid or blood leaking from the ears or nose.
(3) Confusion or abnormal behavior.
(4) Numbness or inability to move limbs.
(5) Localized involuntary twitching or seizures.
It is recommended to supplement with vitamins and fluids, get plenty of rest, and enhance your self-healing ability.
The dizziness should gradually improve.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related issues further! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/06/02

More Info

When it comes to head injuries, understanding the symptoms and knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for your health and safety. Based on your description, it sounds like you experienced a head injury a few days ago, and now you're noticing increased pain and slight dizziness. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you should consider regarding your symptoms and the appropriate steps to take.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Pain and Tenderness: The pain you're experiencing, especially when moving your head, could indicate that there is some residual inflammation or even a minor contusion (bruise) in the area where you hit your head. It’s not uncommon for pain to develop or intensify a few days after an injury, especially if the area was manipulated or pressed on, as you mentioned during your haircut.

2. Dizziness: The slight dizziness you’re feeling could be a result of the head injury. Dizziness can occur due to various reasons, including inner ear disturbances, tension headaches, or even mild concussive symptoms. It’s important to monitor this symptom closely.

3. Bruising: The "bruise" you feel may be a subcutaneous hematoma, which is a collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often caused by trauma. This can take time to resolve and may cause localized pain.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should consider seeking medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Worsening Symptoms: If your headache becomes severe or if the dizziness worsens, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

- Neurological Symptoms: Look out for symptoms such as confusion, difficulty speaking, weakness in limbs, or loss of coordination. These could indicate a more serious injury, such as a concussion or intracranial bleeding.

- Persistent Symptoms: If the pain does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relief, or if it persists for more than a few days, it’s advisable to see a doctor.

- Changes in Consciousness: If you experience increased drowsiness, difficulty waking up, or any changes in your level of consciousness, seek immediate medical care.

Recommended Actions
1. Rest: Allow your body to heal. Avoid strenuous activities that could exacerbate your symptoms.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, avoid taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

3. Ice Application: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Do this for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your symptoms. If you notice any changes or worsening conditions, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Conclusion
In summary, while minor head injuries often resolve on their own, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about your symptoms. Given that you are experiencing increased pain and slight dizziness, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan, to rule out any serious injuries. Always prioritize your health and safety, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you feel uncertain about your condition.

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