Head Trauma: Long-Term Effects and Concerns

Q: Head Trauma: Long-Term Effects and Concerns

Hello： 1. <br>According to medical principles, head trauma should be monitored for 3 months. <br>If there is no further deterioration, the injury is considered stable. <br>2. <br>If there is indeed intracranial hemorrhage, it will typically resolve and be absorbed within 1-2 mont

Head trauma

Hello, Doctor.
Two years ago, I was struck on the head by a metal pipe while working.
At that time, I was unsure if there was any issue, so I went to an orthopedic doctor for an X-ray, and the doctor said there was no fracture in the skull.
After two months, I saw a neurologist who ordered a CT scan, and the doctor said there didn't seem to be any major problems in the brain.
However, I had been experiencing discomfort in my head before this incident, and after the accident, I am uncertain if there are any other issues.
I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
I have always had concerns; if there were a fracture or a minor crack in the skull, could a person still engage in basic activities for two years?
2.
I have always wondered, if there were intracranial bleeding, could I have maintained this condition for two years?
3.
I have been experiencing poor sleep, shallow sleep, and persistent brain fog, often feeling forgetful.
Could this be related to the head injury, and what should I do about it?
4.
I had discomfort in my head before the accident, and at that time, I had two upper molars extracted.
After that, I started experiencing head discomfort.
Could tooth extraction lead to head discomfort?

Xiao Zhi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/01

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello: 1.
According to medical principles, head trauma should be monitored for 3 months.
If there is no further deterioration, the injury is considered stable.
2.
If there is indeed intracranial hemorrhage, it will typically resolve and be absorbed within 1-2 months (similar to how a bruise gradually fades).
A small number may become chronic (usually in individuals over 60 years old).
3.
It is recommended that you consult a neurologist or neurosurgeon, as well as a psychiatrist or psychologist.
4.
Theoretically, tooth extraction is not significantly related to headaches (this is rare).
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2022/11/01

More Info

Understanding head trauma and its long-term effects is crucial for anyone who has experienced a head injury. Your concerns about the incident two years ago, where you were struck on the head by a metal pipe, are valid and warrant a thorough discussion.

1. Concerns about Skull Fractures: If there was a skull fracture, it’s important to note that many people can remain conscious and function normally, even with a fracture. The brain is well-protected by the skull, and minor fractures often heal without significant complications. However, if there were any associated injuries, such as a concussion or intracranial bleeding, these could lead to more serious issues. Since you underwent imaging studies (X-ray and CT scan) that showed no significant problems, it is likely that you did not sustain a severe injury. However, if you have ongoing symptoms, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider.

2. Intracranial Bleeding: Intracranial bleeding, such as a hematoma, typically does not last for two years. Most cases of intracranial bleeding resolve within weeks to a few months, depending on the severity. If you had a significant bleed, it would likely have been detected during your CT scan. Persistent symptoms two years later are unlikely to be due to a bleed from the original injury.

3. Sleep Issues and Cognitive Symptoms: Your ongoing sleep disturbances, feelings of mental fog, and cognitive difficulties could indeed be related to your head injury. Post-concussion syndrome is a recognized condition where individuals experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues long after the initial injury. Stress, anxiety, and depression can also exacerbate these symptoms. It is advisable to consult with a neurologist or a specialist in brain injury rehabilitation who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include cognitive therapy, medication for sleep, or lifestyle modifications.

4. Dental Procedures and Head Discomfort: Regarding your question about whether tooth extraction could lead to head discomfort, it is possible. Dental procedures, especially those involving the upper jaw, can sometimes lead to referred pain in the head. This is due to the close proximity of the dental structures to the nerves that supply sensation to the head. If you experienced head discomfort following your dental work, it might be worth discussing this with your dentist or a healthcare provider to rule out any complications, such as nerve irritation or sinus issues.

In summary, while your initial evaluations did not reveal significant injuries, your ongoing symptoms warrant further investigation. It is essential to seek a follow-up appointment with a neurologist who can assess your current symptoms in the context of your past head injury and provide a tailored treatment plan. Additionally, addressing your sleep issues and cognitive concerns is crucial for improving your overall quality of life. Remember, recovery from head trauma can be a gradual process, and seeking help is a vital step towards healing.

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