Head Injury from Door Frame: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Hit the head on the door frame?

Hello Doctor, about two to three years ago, I hit my head on a door frame.
At that time, I didn't pay much attention to it, and it healed on its own after a while.
However, at the end of October (last month), I hit the same spot again.
I didn't take any measures (no ice or heat application) and for two to three days after the impact, I felt no discomfort and continued my daily activities normally.
By mid-November, with the fluctuating weather, I noticed that the impacted area (the surface of my scalp) swelled a bit during warm days and hurt during cold days.
While riding my motorcycle to work, I wear a full-face helmet (which is a bit heavy), and sometimes when the helmet presses against my scalp due to bumpy roads, it causes pain.
At that time, I even felt a bit weak all over, but removing the helmet helps a lot.
Additionally, I experience dizziness when I suddenly stand up after sitting for a long time or when walking, with the dizziness occurring no more than five times a day, and my head tends to tilt to the left during these episodes.
Currently, these are the only issues I'm experiencing with my head.

Doctor, I have a few questions:
1.
Do I need to go to the hospital for further examination, or is this just a normal level of impact that can be managed with rest? What should I pay attention to while resting?
2.
Does heat application help with recovery?
3.
Should I consider getting a lighter helmet?
Thank you for taking the time to read my email.

Xiwang mei da wenti, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/12/01

Dr. Zhang Yuanyi reply Neurosurgery

Generally, after a head injury, common symptoms include headache and dizziness; the duration of these symptoms can vary from person to person.
If the severity or frequency of dizziness increases, or if there are accompanying symptoms such as vomiting, limb weakness, or difficulty walking, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation at a hospital.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Zhang Yuanyi, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2007/12/01

More Info

When it comes to head injuries, particularly those resulting from impacts like hitting a door frame, it is crucial to understand the potential risks and the appropriate steps to take for assessment and treatment. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced multiple impacts to the same area of your head, and now you are noticing symptoms such as swelling, pain, and occasional dizziness. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you should consider.

When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Persistent Symptoms: If you experience ongoing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or any changes in your vision or consciousness, it is essential to seek medical attention. The fact that you have experienced dizziness upon standing and a sensation of weakness could indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as post-concussion syndrome or even intracranial pressure changes.

2. Neurological Symptoms: Any new neurological symptoms, such as difficulty speaking, weakness in limbs, or coordination issues, warrant immediate evaluation. These could be signs of a more severe injury, including a concussion or intracranial hemorrhage.

3. Swelling and Pain: The swelling you mentioned, especially if it fluctuates with temperature changes, could indicate inflammation in the area of impact. While some swelling is normal after a head injury, persistent or worsening swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Recommended Actions
1. Medical Evaluation: Given your history of multiple impacts and the current symptoms, it would be prudent to visit a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. A neurologist or an emergency room visit may be warranted to rule out any serious complications such as a concussion or other intracranial injuries.

2. Imaging Studies: Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI to assess for any structural damage or bleeding in the brain.
3. Rest and Observation: If your symptoms are mild and your doctor advises against immediate imaging, resting and monitoring your symptoms is essential. Avoid activities that could risk further injury, such as contact sports or heavy lifting.

Treatment and Recovery
1. Heat vs. Cold Therapy: For swelling, cold therapy is typically recommended in the initial stages (first 48 hours) to reduce inflammation. After that, heat can be applied to promote blood flow and healing. However, if you notice increased swelling or pain with heat, it may be best to avoid it.

2. Safety Gear: Regarding your helmet, it is wise to choose a lighter helmet that still meets safety standards. A heavy helmet can exacerbate discomfort, especially if you are experiencing pain in the area of impact. Ensure that it fits well and provides adequate protection without causing additional strain.

3. Gradual Return to Activities: If you have been cleared by a healthcare professional, gradually return to your normal activities. Pay attention to how your body responds, and do not hesitate to seek further evaluation if symptoms persist or worsen.

Conclusion
In summary, while minor head injuries often resolve without significant issues, your symptoms suggest that a medical evaluation is warranted. The combination of repeated impacts, swelling, and dizziness raises concerns that should not be overlooked. Prioritize your health by consulting a medical professional who can provide a tailored assessment and appropriate care. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries.

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