Long-Term Effects of Head Injuries from Falls

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about injuries from falls?

Hello doctor, when I was 19 years old, I accidentally fell while going up the stairs and hit my head.
At that time, I only felt dizzy but was fully conscious.
Since there was bleeding, I went to the hospital.
The doctor said I didn't need stitches and advised me to monitor myself for three days.
Now, after six years, I sometimes experience headaches when I feel dizzy.
Could this be related to my previous injury? Will there be any long-term effects in the future?

Mr. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/21

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Mr.
Chen,
You mentioned, "For the past 6 years, if I experience dizziness, will it be related to my previous injury?" Generally speaking, if there is no loss of consciousness, no anticoagulant medication use, or obvious local hematoma, head trauma is usually mild.
Injuries caused by sudden direct or indirect impact to the head can affect brain function.
The severity of brain injury can range from minor injuries that heal on their own to severe damage affecting brain nerves and tissues, leading to secondary ischemic brain lesions.
Delayed intracranial hemorrhage typically occurs within 48 hours, with an incidence of about 5%.
Since the incident occurred over 6 years ago, it may be more appropriate to consider tension-type headaches, which are caused by muscle tension in the head.
Common manifestations include tightness and pain in the forehead and temples, resembling the feeling of wearing a tight headband.
As this is caused by muscle fatigue, it usually starts in the afternoon and peaks in the evening or at night.
Taking a hot shower, massaging, or sleeping can provide relief.
Lack of sleep, stress, or anxiety can exacerbate the severity of the headache.
I recommend visiting a neurology clinic for further evaluation and follow-up.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health, peace, and joy.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2023/07/21

More Info

Head injuries, even those that seem minor at the time, can have long-term effects that may not manifest immediately. In your case, falling and hitting your head at the age of 19, followed by symptoms like dizziness and headaches, raises valid concerns about potential long-term consequences.

Understanding Long-Term Effects of Head Injuries
1. Post-Concussion Syndrome: One of the most common long-term effects of head injuries is post-concussion syndrome (PCS). This condition can occur after a concussion and may lead to persistent symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even years after the initial injury. Given that you experienced dizziness and headaches six years after your fall, it is possible that you could be experiencing symptoms related to PCS.

2. Chronic Headaches: Head injuries can lead to chronic headaches, which may be tension-type headaches or migraines. These headaches can be triggered by various factors, including stress, lack of sleep, and even changes in weather. If your headaches are frequent and debilitating, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

3. Cognitive and Emotional Changes: Some individuals may experience cognitive changes, such as difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or emotional disturbances like anxiety and depression. These changes can be subtle and may not be immediately recognized as being related to the head injury.

4. Structural Changes: Although you mentioned that your injury did not require stitches and was deemed minor, it is essential to consider that even minor head injuries can lead to structural changes in the brain over time. For example, repeated head trauma can lead to conditions like chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which is associated with cognitive decline and mood disorders. However, this is more commonly seen in individuals with a history of multiple concussions.

5. Future Risks: While many individuals recover fully from a single head injury, there is a risk of developing complications later in life. For instance, some studies suggest that individuals with a history of head trauma may be at increased risk for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. However, the relationship between a single head injury and these conditions is still being researched.

Recommendations
- Medical Evaluation: Given your ongoing symptoms of dizziness and headaches, it is crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a neurologist or a specialist in brain injuries. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess any underlying issues.

- Symptom Management: Treatment for headaches may include lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, medication, or cognitive behavioral therapy. Keeping a headache diary can help identify triggers and patterns, which can be beneficial for managing symptoms.

- Monitoring: Continue to monitor your symptoms and any changes in your health. If you experience new symptoms, such as severe headaches, confusion, or changes in vision, seek medical attention promptly.

- Education and Support: Educate yourself about the potential long-term effects of head injuries and consider joining support groups where you can share experiences and coping strategies with others who have faced similar challenges.

In conclusion, while it is possible that your current symptoms are related to your past head injury, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can significantly improve your quality of life and help manage any long-term effects of your injury.

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