Symptoms After a Fall: When to Seek Medical Attention

Q: Symptoms After a Fall: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello： Given your friend's condition, he should go to the hospital for further examination as soon as possible. <br>I'm not sure how he got injured. <br>If he simply slipped and bumped his calf without any other areas being impacted, the likelihood of a head injury is low; howeve

The wound feels warm and exhibits delayed response?

Hello! My friend was hiking with a heavy backpack (about 20 kg) and unfortunately fell while descending, landing halfway down the mountain.
He hit the front of his left calf on a rock, resulting in a wound measuring approximately 1x0.5x0.3 cm in length, width, and depth.
He experiences pain in his left foot while walking, and the wound feels warm.
I am concerned whether he might have injured his bone.
The next day, he has been speaking and moving slower than usual.
He experiences episodes where his mind goes blank for about 5 to 10 seconds while talking.
His movements are also slower, and after eating, he feels nauseous.
When I asked if he hit his head, he said he doesn't remember.
Are these symptoms serious, and which medical specialty should he see? Thank you!

belle, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/16

Dr. Huang Junxiong reply Surgery

Hello: Given your friend's condition, he should go to the hospital for further examination as soon as possible.
I'm not sure how he got injured.
If he simply slipped and bumped his calf without any other areas being impacted, the likelihood of a head injury is low; however, if there was a blow to the head or visible trauma to the head or face, then the possibility of a head injury increases.
Based on your description, he seems to have difficulty recalling what happened and is exhibiting symptoms such as sluggishness and nausea, so I strongly recommend that he get checked immediately, preferably by a trauma surgeon or a neurosurgeon, or even at an emergency surgery department.
As for the issue with his leg, it seems he is still able to walk, which suggests that a fracture is unlikely.
If confirmation is needed, an X-ray would suffice, and he can have that done at the hospital along with other examinations.
In any case, it is advisable for your friend to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Wishing you safety!

Reply Date: 2004/08/16

More Info

Based on the symptoms described, it is crucial for your friend to seek immediate medical attention. The combination of a significant fall, a visible wound on the leg, and neurological symptoms such as slowed speech and movement, as well as episodes of feeling faint or "blanking out," raises several concerns that need to be addressed by a healthcare professional.

Potential Injuries and Concerns
1. Soft Tissue Injury: The wound on your friend's leg, measuring 1x0.5x0.3 cm, indicates a soft tissue injury. The "hot" sensation around the wound could suggest inflammation or infection, especially if there is pain when walking. It is essential to monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.

2. Possible Bone Injury: Given the mechanism of injury (a fall onto a hard surface), there is a risk of a fracture or bone contusion in the area where the leg impacted the rock. Symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg could indicate a fracture. An X-ray or other imaging studies may be necessary to rule out any bone injuries.

3. Neurological Symptoms: The symptoms of slowed speech and movement, along with episodes of blanking out, are particularly concerning. These could be indicative of a concussion or other traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even if your friend does not recall hitting their head, the impact from the fall could still result in a concussion. Symptoms of a concussion can include confusion, dizziness, nausea, and changes in behavior or cognitive function.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given the combination of a fall, a leg injury, and neurological symptoms, your friend should seek medical attention as soon as possible. It is advisable to visit an emergency department or urgent care facility where they can receive a comprehensive evaluation. The medical team will likely perform the following:
- Physical Examination: A thorough examination of the leg injury and neurological assessment to evaluate cognitive function, coordination, and reflexes.

- Imaging Studies: X-rays of the leg to check for fractures and possibly a CT scan of the head if there are concerns about a concussion or other brain injury.

- Wound Care: Proper cleaning and dressing of the leg wound, along with antibiotics if there are signs of infection.

Recommended Specialists
Your friend should ideally see a physician in the following specialties:
- Emergency Medicine: For immediate evaluation of the injury and any potential fractures or concussions.

- Orthopedics: If there is a confirmed fracture or significant soft tissue injury, an orthopedic specialist may be needed for further management.

- Neurology: If neurological symptoms persist or worsen, a neurologist may be consulted to assess for any underlying brain injury.

Conclusion
In summary, your friend's symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation due to the risk of both orthopedic and neurological injuries. It is always better to err on the side of caution, especially after a fall that could potentially lead to serious complications. Encourage your friend to seek medical attention immediately to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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