Concussions: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help

Q: Concussions: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help

Hello, <br>In general, head trauma without loss of consciousness, anticoagulant use, or obvious local hematomas tends to be mild. <br>However, the following conditions warrant consideration of delayed bleeding and a visit to the emergency room： (1) Deterioration of vision, seeing

Head injury / concussion

I'm sorry to ask, but I would like to inquire about something.
On June 7th, I had a dispute with my family and was slapped forcefully about 5 or 6 times.
At the time, I didn't feel anything unusual, but after a while, by June 10th, I have been continuously experiencing headaches and dizziness.
Additionally, I have a bruise on my forehead near the temple, but I do not have any nausea, vomiting, or loss of consciousness.

1) Does this indicate that I might have a concussion?
2) What potential effects or injuries could occur to my head, and is there a risk of delayed bleeding?
3) Should I see a doctor, or can I just rest for a while and recover? (I'm concerned about wasting medical resources, which is why I wanted to ask first! Thank you for your response ><)

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/10

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello,
In general, head trauma without loss of consciousness, anticoagulant use, or obvious local hematomas tends to be mild.
However, the following conditions warrant consideration of delayed bleeding and a visit to the emergency room: (1) Deterioration of 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 movements or seizures.

You mentioned experiencing "persistent headaches and dizziness," which may indicate symptoms of a concussion.
Symptoms of a concussion include headache, nausea, general weakness, difficulty concentrating, and drowsiness.
These symptoms can vary from person to person and typically resolve gradually within 7 to 10 days after the injury.
However, symptoms may worsen due to various stimuli, and if the patient does not rest adequately, symptoms persisting for more than 3 months without improvement may indicate progression to post-concussion syndrome.

There is no specific treatment for post-concussion syndrome; the primary approach is to rest and avoid psychological stress until recovery occurs naturally.
Clinically, medications may be provided to alleviate pain and dizziness as needed to reduce discomfort.
For dietary considerations, adopting a Mediterranean diet, DASH diet, or MIND diet may enhance cognitive function.
Supplementing with B vitamins is also recommended.

If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon for further evaluation and treatment.
If the condition progresses rapidly, visiting the emergency room is recommended.

Thank you for your inquiry.
If you have further questions, feel free to discuss them.
Wishing you good health, safety, and happiness.

Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares for you.

Reply Date: 2022/06/10

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning symptoms following the physical altercation you described. Let's break down your questions regarding concussions and head injuries.

1. Could this be a concussion?
Based on your description, it is possible that you may have sustained a concussion, especially since you are experiencing persistent headaches and dizziness after being struck multiple times on the head. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur after a blow to the head or body, causing the brain to move rapidly within the skull. Symptoms can vary widely but often include headaches, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and sensitivity to light or noise. While you mentioned that you did not experience nausea, vomiting, or loss of consciousness, it is important to note that these symptoms do not always occur with a concussion.

2. What are the potential effects or risks?
Head injuries can lead to various complications, including delayed bleeding (subdural hematoma or epidural hematoma), which can be serious. Symptoms of delayed bleeding may not appear until hours or even days after the injury. Common signs to watch for include worsening headaches, increasing confusion, difficulty waking up, seizures, or weakness in limbs. The presence of a bruise near your temple could indicate localized trauma, but it does not rule out the possibility of a concussion or other internal injuries. It is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely.

3. Should you see a doctor?
Yes, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Even if you are hesitant about utilizing healthcare resources, your symptoms warrant a professional evaluation. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough assessment, including a neurological examination, and may recommend imaging studies like a CT scan to rule out any serious injuries. Early intervention can be critical in preventing complications and ensuring proper recovery.

In summary, while you may not have experienced some of the more severe symptoms typically associated with concussions, your ongoing headaches and dizziness, combined with the history of trauma, suggest that you should consult a healthcare professional. They can provide you with the necessary care and guidance to manage your symptoms effectively. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries. Your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking help is a responsible step to take.

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