Head Injuries: Recovery and Risks After a Fall

Head injury

Hello, Doctor: My husband is 33 years old.
On September 24, he accidentally fell from a height of 1 meter at work and lost consciousness.
While being transported to the hospital, he regained consciousness and called me to inform me that he was being taken to the hospital.
He also sent me messages on Line, but they were intermittent.
When I arrived at the hospital, he appeared to be semi-conscious.
The doctor said that imaging showed he had impacted the left side of his forehead near the temple, with a slight crack and minor bleeding at the site.
After administering a hemostatic IV, he was moved to a ward, where he slept for 5 hours.
Upon waking, he had no recollection of the fall, the transport to the hospital, or anything prior to waking up.
The next day, another brain scan was performed, and it showed that the bleeding had stopped, so no surgery was needed.
By the second day, he only experienced a headache but did not feel nauseous and was able to eat, although he felt a bit dizzy and weak.
By the third day, he only had a headache, and the doctor said he could be discharged.
I would like to ask about my husband's smoking habit.
I do not allow him to smoke, but on September 28, I couldn't stop him, and he smoked.
I am very concerned about whether this will affect his injuries.
The minor crack and slight bleeding indicate that the injury is not too serious, right? On September 29, he mentioned that he had a slight headache upon waking, but it went away quickly.
However, he has been yawning frequently.
Is this normal?

Miss Kang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/30

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

It doesn't sound too serious; just take plenty of rest and return for regular check-ups.

Reply Date: 2021/09/30

More Info

Head injuries, especially those resulting from falls, can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications, some of which may not be immediately apparent. In the case of your husband, who experienced a fall from a height and sustained a head injury, it is crucial to understand the potential risks and the recovery process involved.

Firstly, the fact that your husband was briefly unconscious and then experienced confusion and memory loss is concerning. These symptoms can indicate a concussion or more severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). The presence of a skull fracture and minor bleeding, as noted in his medical evaluation, suggests that while the injury may not have required surgical intervention, it still warrants careful monitoring. The brain is a delicate organ, and even minor injuries can lead to significant complications if not properly managed.

Regarding the recovery process, it is common for individuals who have suffered a concussion or mild TBI to experience headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. These symptoms can persist for days or even weeks following the injury. The fact that your husband is experiencing headaches and occasional dizziness is not unusual, but it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely. If they worsen or if he develops new symptoms such as vomiting, increased confusion, or seizures, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

As for smoking, it is advisable for your husband to refrain from smoking during his recovery. Smoking can impair blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, which may hinder the healing process. Additionally, nicotine can exacerbate headaches and may contribute to increased anxiety or stress, which can further complicate recovery. Encouraging him to avoid smoking and other harmful substances will be beneficial for his overall health and recovery.

In terms of his current symptoms, such as feeling faint and experiencing headaches, these can be part of the normal recovery process. However, it is essential to ensure that he is resting adequately and avoiding any activities that could risk another head injury. Gradual return to normal activities is recommended, but it should be done cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It is also important to maintain regular follow-ups with his healthcare provider. They can assess his recovery progress and determine if any further imaging or interventions are necessary. If he continues to experience significant headaches or other troubling symptoms, further evaluation may be warranted to rule out complications such as post-concussion syndrome or intracranial pressure issues.

In summary, while your husband's injury may not be classified as severe, it is essential to take his symptoms seriously and support him through his recovery. Encourage him to avoid smoking, ensure he gets plenty of rest, and keep an open line of communication with his healthcare team. Monitoring his symptoms closely and adhering to medical advice will be key to a successful recovery.

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