Should You Seek Medical Attention After a Head Injury?

Head trauma

A few days ago, I bumped the front right side of my forehead against the corner of a car trunk.
Since then, I've been waking up with a tingling pain in the back left side of my head, which isn't particularly severe, but I feel a bit dizzy overall.
My neck is also somewhat stiff.
Should I seek medical attention immediately?

Qiao Qiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/22

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Miss Chiao,
You mentioned that "the left back of my head feels numb and painful, but it's not particularly severe, and overall I feel a bit dizzy, with some stiffness in the back of my neck." Your symptoms may suggest cervical myofascial inflammation, possibly caused by external force leading to strain in the cervical muscles, resulting in discomfort and localized muscle tension with limited mobility.
These symptoms typically improve within two weeks.
If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a neurologist or a rehabilitation specialist for further examination and treatment.
The usual treatment options include:
1.
Medication: When nerves are compressed, an inflammatory response occurs, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used, as they have both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can reduce the inflammatory response and alleviate pain.
2.
Physical Therapy:
- Heat Therapy: Primarily increases local blood circulation and improves muscle ischemia.
- Shortwave and Ultrasound Therapy: Mainly promotes blood circulation in deeper tissues.
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Medium Frequency Interferential Current: These can provide localized pain relief and alleviate tension in the neck and shoulders.
Thank you for your inquiry.
If you have further questions, feel free to discuss them.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi
Department of Neurology
Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2022/06/22

More Info

When it comes to head injuries, understanding when to seek medical attention is crucial for your health and safety. Based on your description, you experienced a head injury a few days ago, and now you're experiencing symptoms such as a tingling pain in the back of your head, a general feeling of dizziness, and some stiffness in your neck. These symptoms warrant careful consideration.

First and foremost, it's important to recognize that head injuries can lead to a variety of complications, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Common symptoms following a head injury include headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and changes in vision or balance. However, more serious conditions, such as intracranial bleeding or concussions, can develop over time, which is why monitoring your symptoms is essential.

Given that you are experiencing a tingling sensation and a feeling of dizziness, it is advisable to seek medical attention. While these symptoms may seem mild, they can be indicative of underlying issues that require evaluation. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination, which may include neurological assessments and imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI, to rule out any serious complications such as a concussion or bleeding in the brain.

Additionally, the stiffness in your neck could suggest a possible neck injury, which is not uncommon in head trauma cases. This could be due to muscle strain or, in more severe cases, whiplash or other cervical spine injuries. A healthcare provider can assess your neck and determine if further imaging or treatment is necessary.

In the meantime, here are some general guidelines to follow after a head injury:
1. Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous activities that could exacerbate your symptoms.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms. If you experience worsening headaches, increased dizziness, confusion, or any new symptoms such as vomiting or seizures, seek immediate medical attention.

3. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: These substances can mask symptoms and may complicate your recovery.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help manage headaches, but avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin unless advised by a doctor, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

5. Follow-Up: If you have any concerns or if your symptoms do not improve, follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation or treatment.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not seem severe, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries. Seeking medical attention will provide you with peace of mind and ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly. Your health is paramount, and a healthcare professional can guide you through the recovery process effectively.

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