Post-Accident Neurological Symptoms: Your Condition - Neurology

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Post-traumatic sequelae from a car accident?


Dr.
Yeh: Hello, I was in a motorcycle accident in 1998 (my motorcycle collided with the rear of a small truck).
At that time, I wasn't wearing a helmet, was traveling at a speed of 50 km/h, remained conscious, did not lose consciousness, and bled a little.
After examination, there was no concussion.
However, I recently noticed that sometimes when I am doing something, my head suddenly feels like it is dropping heavily downwards or moving upwards abruptly, but when I come to, my head hasn't actually moved at all.
This has happened three times this month.
Additionally, I have a habit of listening to music while I sleep (wearing headphones) and I usually fall asleep to it, but I haven't listened to it in the last two or three days.

Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/02/22

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology


To: Wen
1.
The car accident three years ago, which did not involve a concussion, should not be significantly related to this recent "axial motion." However, it is unclear whether there are any consciousness impairment issues.
How long has this been occurring? Is the mentioned event related to posture? If there is indeed a consciousness impairment, medical attention should be sought promptly, as there may be a possibility of epilepsy.

2.
When sleeping while listening to music, do not use headphones!

Reply Date: 2001/02/22

More Info


Based on your description of post-accident neurological symptoms, it appears that you are experiencing some unusual sensations and movements in your head that may be linked to your previous motorcycle accident. The symptoms you describe, such as the feeling of your head suddenly dropping or moving when it actually hasn’t, can be concerning and may indicate a few potential underlying issues.

Firstly, it is important to consider the possibility of post-traumatic symptoms resulting from your past head injury. Even if you did not experience a concussion at the time of the accident, it is possible to develop post-concussion syndrome later on. This condition can manifest as a variety of symptoms, including dizziness, headaches, cognitive difficulties, and sensory disturbances. The fact that you are experiencing sudden sensations of movement could be related to vestibular dysfunction, which affects your balance and spatial orientation.

Additionally, the sensation of your head moving when it is not could be a form of "phantom movement," which can occur due to neurological changes following trauma. This phenomenon may be linked to the brain's processing of sensory information, particularly if there has been any disruption in the normal functioning of the vestibular system or the proprioceptive pathways that help you sense the position of your body in space.

Another aspect to consider is the psychological impact of your accident. Traumatic experiences can lead to anxiety and hypervigilance, which may manifest as physical symptoms. If you are feeling anxious or stressed about your health or the possibility of having sustained an injury, this could exacerbate your symptoms. It is also worth noting that changes in sleep patterns, such as stopping the use of headphones while sleeping, can affect your overall well-being and may contribute to feelings of disorientation or discomfort.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a neurologist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any structural issues that could be causing your symptoms. Additionally, a thorough neurological examination can help assess your balance, coordination, and cognitive function.

In the meantime, you might consider keeping a symptom diary to track when these episodes occur, their duration, and any associated activities or stressors. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.

Lastly, if you find that your symptoms are affecting your daily life or causing significant distress, it may be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional. They can help you develop coping strategies to manage anxiety and any psychological effects stemming from your accident.

In summary, while your symptoms may be linked to your past head injury, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. It is important to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your condition to ensure a holistic approach to your health.

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