Head Injuries from Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents - Neurosurgery

Share to:

Injuries caused by car accidents?


A collision between a motorcycle and a bicycle resulted in a fall that caused head trauma, leading to initial loss of consciousness and confusion.
Bystanders attempted to rouse the individual with no response, and then a second motorcycle struck them.
After receiving treatment at the hospital, a diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage was made.
I would like to inquire whether the initial fall and head impact, which caused loss of consciousness and confusion, could be indicative of a concussion, or if it suggests intracranial bleeding.
Additionally, is it possible for head trauma to cause bleeding from the ears or nose?

Xiao Zhao, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/12

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery


Yes, it is a concussion, it will.

Reply Date: 2022/11/12

More Info


Head injuries resulting from motorcycle and bicycle accidents can be serious and require careful evaluation. In your case, the initial loss of consciousness and unresponsiveness after the first impact raises significant concerns about the severity of the injury. When someone experiences a head injury and exhibits symptoms such as confusion, loss of consciousness, or prolonged disorientation, it is crucial to consider the possibility of a concussion or more severe brain injury, including intracranial hemorrhage.

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain is jolted or shaken inside the skull, often due to a blow to the head. Symptoms can include confusion, headache, dizziness, and loss of consciousness, which may last for a few seconds to several minutes. However, in some cases, the symptoms can persist for days or even weeks. The fact that you experienced a second impact from another motorcycle further complicates your situation, as it can exacerbate any existing injuries.

Intracranial hemorrhage, such as subarachnoid hemorrhage (which you mentioned), occurs when there is bleeding in the space between the brain and the tissues covering it. This can happen due to a severe impact, and it can lead to increased pressure on the brain, potentially causing more severe symptoms, including prolonged loss of consciousness, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and neurological deficits. The presence of subarachnoid hemorrhage indicates that there was significant trauma to the brain, and it is essential to monitor for any changes in symptoms.

Regarding your question about whether a head injury can cause bleeding from the ears or nose, it is indeed possible. Blood may leak from the ears or nose if there is a fracture in the skull base or if there is significant trauma to the head. This is often referred to as "rhinorrhea" (bleeding from the nose) or "otorrhea" (bleeding from the ears) and can be a sign of a more severe injury. If you experience these symptoms, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, the symptoms you experienced after the initial impact, including loss of consciousness and confusion, suggest that you may have sustained a concussion or more severe brain injury, such as intracranial hemorrhage. It is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider, preferably a neurologist or a specialist in traumatic brain injuries, for a thorough evaluation and appropriate imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to assess the extent of the injury. Additionally, if you notice any worsening of symptoms, such as increasing headaches, confusion, or changes in vision, you should seek emergency medical care immediately.
Always remember that head injuries can have serious consequences, and it is better to err on the side of caution. Regular follow-up and monitoring of your symptoms are crucial to ensure your safety and recovery.

Similar Q&A

After a Bike Accident: Concerns About Head Trauma and Safety Gear

Hello Doctor: Yesterday, on March 30th, while I was riding my bike, a small boy suddenly ran out from the side of the road. To avoid him, I fell off my bike. After I stood up, I was suddenly struck on the head by a family member of the boy. I think he was very angry, believing th...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description: On March 30, you sustained a head injury from an attack. Currently, you feel okay, and there is no specific pain in your head. The doctor has prescribed medication for dizziness and pain relief. For head trauma, the general management approach ...

[Read More] After a Bike Accident: Concerns About Head Trauma and Safety Gear


Motorcycle Accident: Understanding Head Injuries and Their Risks

A 56-year-old frail female motorcyclist was riding at approximately 30 mph when she collided with the left door of a vehicle traveling straight at a speed of about 30 to 40 mph. The female rider was wearing a helmet at the time of the impact, which caused a small dent in the left...


Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
Both traumatic brain hemorrhage and chronic brain hemorrhage can be detected through a computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain.

[Read More] Motorcycle Accident: Understanding Head Injuries and Their Risks


Understanding Concussion Symptoms After a Motorcycle Accident

Hello Doctor: Last month, I had an accident while riding my bike on a rainy and slippery road, and I fell, hitting the back of my head. I was wearing a helmet, but I only remember a little bit from the time of the incident until I got to the hospital. The doctor said I only had a...


Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
At that time, there may have been a mild concussion, which could affect some memory and attention. The dizziness is likely related to the displacement of otoliths in the semicircular canals of the inner ear following the impact, which usually resolves on its own. The recent sympt...

[Read More] Understanding Concussion Symptoms After a Motorcycle Accident


Understanding Head Injuries: What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

Hello, I would like to ask about a situation where I was riding a motorcycle and collided with a pedestrian, causing them to fall backward and hit the back of their head. They had bleeding from their ears on both sides but were awake. When the ambulance arrived and the paramedics...


Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
It's difficult to answer this; it's best to go to the hospital and get a CT scan of the brain to see what the situation is!

[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident


Related FAQ

Head Injury

(Neurosurgery)

Car Accident

(Neurosurgery)

Head Injury

(Surgery)

Head Contusion

(Neurosurgery)

Head Injury

(Neurology)

Head Injury

(Internal Medicine)

Headache

(Neurosurgery)

Symptoms After A Car Accident

(Neurosurgery)

Post-Car Accident

(Neurology)

Posterior Head

(Neurosurgery)