Post-Traumatic Symptoms After Head Injury: When to Seek Help

Head trauma-related issues?

Hello Doctor: I sustained a brain injury from a car accident (head trauma with right cheek contusion and mild subarachnoid hemorrhage on the left side) and have been resting for about a month.
Recently, while preparing to sleep, I've been experiencing frequent twitching in my right leg, as if it's about to go numb, and it takes me longer to fall asleep than before.
Today, I suddenly experienced slight shortness of breath.
Could this be a residual effect of the concussion? Although my head injury has become more stable after a month of rest, I still feel pain when extending my neck to the left side.
I'm unsure if this is temporary pain from the car accident or if there is an underlying injury.
Should I see a neurosurgeon for further evaluation?

Burger, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/21

Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery

You can visit a neurosurgery clinic.

Reply Date: 2023/11/21

More Info

After experiencing a head injury, especially from a car accident, it is crucial to monitor any symptoms that may arise during the recovery period. Your description of symptoms, including right leg spasms, prolonged time to fall asleep, and occasional shortness of breath, raises several important considerations regarding post-traumatic effects and the potential need for further medical evaluation.

Firstly, the symptoms you are experiencing could be related to the head injury you sustained. Post-traumatic symptoms can vary widely and may include headaches, dizziness, sleep disturbances, and even neurological symptoms such as spasms or tingling sensations in the limbs. The right leg spasms you mentioned could be indicative of nerve irritation or other neurological changes resulting from the trauma. It is not uncommon for individuals who have suffered a concussion or other forms of head trauma to experience changes in their sleep patterns and sensations in their extremities.

The shortness of breath you experienced is particularly concerning. While it may not be directly related to the head injury, it is essential to consider that any new or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Shortness of breath can arise from various causes, including anxiety, which can be a common response to trauma, or it could indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires immediate attention.

Regarding the pain in your left neck when stretching, this could be a result of muscle strain or injury related to the accident. Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, and it can lead to neck pain and stiffness. However, persistent pain should not be ignored, as it may indicate more severe injuries, such as cervical spine issues or nerve involvement.

Given that you have been recovering for about a month and are still experiencing these symptoms, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a neurologist or a neurosurgeon. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess for any structural changes or complications from the injury. Additionally, they can evaluate your neurological function to determine if there are any deficits that need to be addressed.

In summary, while some post-traumatic symptoms may improve with time, persistent or new symptoms warrant further investigation. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about all your symptoms, including any changes in your physical sensations, sleep patterns, and respiratory issues. Early intervention can help prevent complications and facilitate a more effective recovery process. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to seek medical attention when in doubt.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Head Trauma: When to Seek Medical Attention After a Hit

Hello, doctor. During school, my classmates often jokingly tap each other's heads, and once a classmate hit me a bit harder than usual. At that moment, I felt some discomfort in my head. After that, I had difficulty concentrating in class, my reactions slowed down, and I fel...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, based on your description, there are many factors that can cause symptoms of dizziness, such as anemia, autonomic dysfunction, and inner ear imbalance. Since your symptoms appeared after a head injury, it is essential to first rule out any issues related to the occipital l...

Post-Car Accident: Understanding Concussion Symptoms and Recovery Options

Hello, I was involved in a car accident on February 19, where I collided and rotated 90 degrees, causing me to be thrown approximately the height of a car before landing. My helmet flew off just before I hit the ground, landing on my left side of the face, resulting in a fracture...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
Basically, a CT scan is detailed enough; if there are still doubts, an MRI can be performed!

Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: What to Do After a Head Injury

Hello Doctor: I was involved in a motorcycle accident four weeks ago as a passenger, wearing a full-face helmet. I have no memory of the accident and when I opened my eyes again, I was already in the hospital. I was unconscious when I was brought to the hospital, and a CT scan wa...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello: Because you have sustained a severe head injury, common symptoms include the following: – Vomiting two times or more – Age over 65 or under 2 years – Drug or alcohol overdose – Persistent severe diffuse headache – Loss of consciousness for more than 30 minutes after the in...

Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention After a Car Accident

In April, I was involved in a car accident that resulted in a concussion. At that time, I experienced headaches and vomiting, which improved by July. However, recently I have started to feel pain again (without any further impact), and sometimes I experience sharp pain or a tingl...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
You can observe the symptoms first, but if they worsen, seek medical treatment immediately.