Post-Impact Brain Symptoms: Numbness, Pressure, and Nausea

Numbness, heat, and swelling in a localized area after a head injury, along with nausea while driving?

Hello, the day before yesterday, I experienced some emotional instability and hit the table hard, resulting in a strong impact felt in the left posterior part of my head, followed by a sensation of my brain shaking and pain.
The next day, I went out as usual, but by the evening, I felt increasingly unwell, experiencing a feeling of pressure and swelling in the upper outer left side of my head.
I went to the emergency room, and a CT scan showed no signs of bleeding.
After two days of rest, I noticed that by tilting my head and changing positions, the numbness and swelling would shift; sometimes it would be in the upper outer left side, sometimes below the temple, and at other times in the posterior left side of my head.
There was a period of improvement, but on the third day, after returning to work, I began to feel increased numbness in the left side of my head in the evening.
On the fourth day, I was supposed to drive to work but felt worse and nauseous, so I returned home.
After changing positions, I continued to feel numbness in the upper posterior left side and the posterior left side of my head, along with a sensation of neck stiffness (I am unsure if this is related to the way I was tilting my head).
Could you please advise what this situation might be? I am a bit worried that it could be chronic bleeding inside the brain.

Micky, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/06

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Mr.
Micky,
Your symptoms may suggest cervical nerve root compression.
This condition is often associated with tightness in the cervical muscles and fascia, as well as cervical degeneration.
It typically presents as pain, discomfort, muscle stiffness, or neurological symptoms in the affected area.
Symptoms may worsen upon waking or with changes in weather, but can be alleviated with stretching activities, often recurring intermittently.
During acute episodes, there may be local muscle tension and spasms, leading to restricted movement.

Cervical nerve root compression can be diagnosed with nerve conduction studies and electromyography.
You mentioned concerns about "chronic bleeding within the brain"; generally, this is less likely if there is no history of anticoagulant use or coagulation disorders.
The cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain can absorb external forces.

I recommend consulting with a rehabilitation specialist or a neurologist/neurosurgeon for further evaluation and treatment.
Please ensure to practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and sanitation, and adhere to new preventive measures before and after your medical visits.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2021/10/06

More Info

Based on your description, it appears that you are experiencing a range of concerning symptoms following a recent impact to your head. The symptoms you mentioned, including numbness, pressure, and nausea, can be indicative of several potential issues, particularly following a head injury. It is important to understand the possible underlying causes and the appropriate steps to take.

Firstly, the impact you described, where you struck the table forcefully, could lead to a variety of neurological symptoms. The brain is a delicate organ, and even minor trauma can result in significant effects. Symptoms such as numbness and pressure in specific areas of the head, as well as nausea, can be associated with post-concussion syndrome, which can occur after a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). This syndrome can manifest as headaches, dizziness, cognitive difficulties, and emotional disturbances, often persisting for weeks or even months after the initial injury.

The fact that you experienced a "strong force" and felt your brain "shake" suggests that there may have been a concussion, even if imaging studies (like a CT scan) did not reveal any bleeding or structural damage. It is crucial to note that not all brain injuries result in visible bleeding; some may cause functional disturbances without any detectable structural changes.

The movement of your symptoms—where the numbness and pressure seem to shift locations—could indicate that the underlying issue is related to nerve irritation or compression, possibly due to muscle tension or postural changes following the injury. The neck pain you mentioned may also contribute to these sensations, as the cervical spine can influence neurological function in the head.

Nausea is another concerning symptom that can arise from increased intracranial pressure or vestibular disturbances following a head injury. While your CT scan did not show bleeding, it is still essential to monitor for any changes in your symptoms, as delayed complications can occur.

Given your symptoms and the recent history of head trauma, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a neurologist or a healthcare professional specializing in brain injuries. They may recommend additional imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess for any subtle changes that a CT scan might miss. Furthermore, they can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your overall health and history, providing a more comprehensive assessment.

In the meantime, it is essential to rest and avoid activities that could exacerbate your symptoms, such as strenuous physical activity or cognitive strain. Staying hydrated and managing stress can also be beneficial. If you notice any worsening of your symptoms, such as increased nausea, severe headaches, changes in vision, or any new neurological deficits (like weakness or difficulty speaking), seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to post-concussion syndrome or nerve irritation, it is crucial to have a thorough evaluation to rule out any serious complications. Your health and safety should always be the priority, and consulting with a medical professional will provide you with the best course of action.

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