Is Dizziness After Epidural Hematoma Surgery Normal? When to Seek Help

Q: Is Dizziness After Epidural Hematoma Surgery Normal? When to Seek Help

Hello： This is likely a post-traumatic sequela following a head injury. <br>Typically, symptoms will improve over time; however, about 5% of patients may experience sequelae that affect their quality of life. <br>It is recommended that you visit a hospital for evaluation and foll

Dizziness

I would like to ask, I previously had an epidural hematoma due to a car accident and underwent surgery to remove the blood clot.
It has been about a year since then.
I experience dizziness approximately 4 to 5 times a month, and it always occurs in the morning upon waking, lasting for about a whole day.
Is this a normal aftereffect, or should I go to the hospital for an examination? Thank you.

A Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/05

Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery

Hello: This is likely a post-traumatic sequela following a head injury.
Typically, symptoms will improve over time; however, about 5% of patients may experience sequelae that affect their quality of life.
It is recommended that you visit a hospital for evaluation and follow the physician's recommendations, rather than simply "going to the hospital for an examination." Sincerely, Dr.
Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery.

Reply Date: 2006/07/05

More Info

Experiencing dizziness after undergoing surgery for an epidural hematoma can be concerning, especially since it has been a year since your surgery. While some degree of dizziness can be a common postoperative symptom, particularly after neurosurgery, it is essential to understand the context and potential underlying causes.

Dizziness can arise from various factors, including changes in blood pressure, dehydration, medication side effects, or even residual effects from the initial injury or surgery. In your case, since you mentioned that the dizziness occurs about 4 to 5 times a month, particularly in the morning upon waking, it may be indicative of a few possibilities:
1. Postural Hypotension: This condition occurs when there is a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing or sitting up, which can lead to dizziness. It is more common in individuals who have had significant blood loss or changes in blood volume due to surgery.

2. Vestibular Dysfunction: The inner ear plays a crucial role in balance. If there was any trauma to the head or if there were changes in the brain due to the hematoma, it could potentially affect the vestibular system, leading to dizziness.

3. Medication Side Effects: If you are taking any medications for pain management or other conditions, dizziness can be a side effect. It is important to review your medications with your healthcare provider.

4. Neurological Issues: Although it has been a year since your surgery, it is still possible that there could be lingering effects from the hematoma or the surgery itself. This could include issues related to the brain's recovery process.

5. Dehydration or Nutritional Deficiencies: Sometimes, dizziness can be related to dehydration or a lack of essential nutrients, particularly if your dietary intake has changed since the surgery.

Given that your dizziness is recurrent and affects your daily life, it is advisable to seek medical attention. You should contact your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms in detail. They may recommend a physical examination, blood tests to check for anemia or electrolyte imbalances, and possibly imaging studies to ensure that there are no new issues related to your previous condition.

In terms of when to seek help, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe or worsening dizziness
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Visual disturbances
- Severe headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness or numbness in any part of your body
In conclusion, while some dizziness can be a normal part of recovery after surgery for an epidural hematoma, the frequency and nature of your symptoms warrant further investigation. It is always better to err on the side of caution and consult with your healthcare provider to rule out any serious underlying issues and to receive appropriate management for your symptoms.

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