Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Further Medical Attention

Post-concussion syndrome?

On the 6th, I slipped and hit the back of my head.
Initially, I had no symptoms, but starting the next day, I experienced intermittent nausea and a feeling of wanting to vomit (without weakness in my limbs, headache, drowsiness, confusion, or blurred vision).
On the third day, I went to the hospital for a consultation.
After the examination, the doctor concluded that it was likely just some symptoms from the head injury and that no further tests were necessary.
They prescribed acetaminophen and some other medications, advising me to take them if I experienced discomfort or headaches, and then sent me home.
However, on the fourth day, I still feel nauseous and want to vomit.
Should the doctor here recommend that I see a physician again, or is it sufficient to just rest more?

Xiong Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/10

Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery

You can visit the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for consultation.

Reply Date: 2023/12/10

More Info

Post-concussion symptoms can be quite complex and vary significantly from person to person. In your case, it sounds like you experienced a fall that resulted in a head injury, and while you initially did not have any significant symptoms, you began to experience nausea and a desire to vomit a day later. It's good that you sought medical attention promptly, and the doctor assessed your condition and provided medication for symptom relief.

However, the persistence of your nausea and vomiting four days after the injury is concerning. While it is common for individuals to experience some mild symptoms after a concussion, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, these symptoms should gradually improve over time. If they persist or worsen, it may indicate that further evaluation is necessary.

Here are some key points to consider regarding when to seek further medical attention after a concussion:
1. Persistent Symptoms: If your nausea and vomiting continue, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider. Persistent symptoms may indicate complications such as post-concussion syndrome or, in rare cases, more severe issues like intracranial bleeding.

2. New Symptoms: If you develop new symptoms such as severe headaches, confusion, difficulty concentrating, changes in vision, or any neurological deficits (like weakness or numbness), you should seek immediate medical attention.

3. Worsening Condition: If your symptoms worsen instead of improving, this is a red flag. For example, if you start experiencing severe headaches or if your nausea becomes uncontrollable, it is crucial to return to the doctor.

4. Rest and Recovery: While rest is essential after a concussion, it is also important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you find that resting does not alleviate your symptoms, or if you feel increasingly unwell, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

5. Follow-Up Care: Depending on your initial assessment, your doctor may have recommended a follow-up appointment. If you were not given specific instructions for follow-up care, it is advisable to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

In summary, while it is common to experience some symptoms after a concussion, the persistence of nausea and vomiting warrants further evaluation. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries. If you are unsure, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for advice. They may recommend further imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out any serious complications. Remember, your health and safety are the top priority, and seeking further medical attention is a responsible step if your symptoms do not improve.

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