Concussions and Seizure Risks After Head Injuries

Concussion and epilepsy..?

I would like to ask a question.
About six months ago, I hit the back of my head quite hard.
At that moment, I felt a bit dizzy, but my consciousness was clear because I was still able to write the exam questions (the incident happened after class).
I just kept feeling dizzy, and I also felt a soreness in my teeth on both sides when I bit down hard, but that sensation disappeared in about ten seconds.
After returning home, I became very dizzy, had difficulty walking steadily, and felt very sleepy, but I didn't have time to see a doctor.
The next day, while watching TV, everything seemed a bit blurry, and I couldn't see clearly.
After two or three days, it got a little better, but I still felt dizzy.
It took almost five days for the symptoms to completely disappear, and after I felt better, I didn't go to see a doctor.
A friend mentioned that I might have had a concussion, but during those days, I didn't experience symptoms like vomiting or nausea.
Additionally, I read online a few days ago that brain injuries could lead to epilepsy or other sequelae within one to three years.
How can I know if I might have epilepsy or other sequelae? Also, was I experiencing a concussion six months ago? If so, is it still necessary to go to the hospital for examination or treatment now?
On a side note, I have a small hard bump between the back of my head and my neck.
It doesn't hurt and feels somewhat like bone, but it seems that no one around me has something similar.
The area where I hit my head is right above that hard bump.
What kind of issues could arise from an injury in that area? Thank you, doctor!

Ray Allen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/05/13

Dr. Lin Zijing reply Neurology

A concussion refers to a temporary loss of function in the brain following a blow to the head, which may manifest as disturbances in consciousness, vision, balance, and other functions.
These changes are fully reversible, and clinical and imaging examinations typically do not reveal any detectable damage to the brain.
Therefore, a concussion is essentially a diagnosis made after the fact.
As for the potential for post-concussion seizures, it is important to remain vigilant (most individuals do not experience this, and it is more likely to occur if there is substantial brain injury).
If seizures do occur, it is crucial to seek evaluation at a major hospital.
The hard bump located between the back of the head and the neck is the occipital bone, which most people have.
It is important to monitor for concussions or intracranial bleeding in the event of a blow to this area, just as with other parts of the head.

Reply Date: 2010/05/13

More Info

Understanding concussions and the potential risks of seizures following head injuries is crucial, especially given your past experience with a significant impact to the back of your head. Based on your description, it sounds like you may have experienced a concussion, which is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur after a blow to the head.
When you hit your head and felt dizzy, it was a sign that your brain was affected by the impact. Concussions can lead to a variety of symptoms, including confusion, dizziness, headaches, and sometimes even temporary loss of consciousness. The fact that you were able to write during your exam suggests that your cognitive function was intact at that moment, but the subsequent dizziness and desire to sleep indicate that your brain was still recovering from the trauma.

The symptoms you experienced—dizziness, difficulty walking, and visual disturbances—are common after a concussion. While nausea and vomiting are often associated with concussions, their absence does not rule out the injury. The recovery period can vary significantly from person to person, and it’s not uncommon for symptoms to linger for days or even weeks.

Regarding your concern about the risk of seizures, it is true that individuals who have sustained a concussion or other significant head injuries may be at an increased risk for developing post-traumatic seizures. These can occur within the first week after the injury or, in some cases, even years later. The risk of developing epilepsy after a concussion is generally low, but it can increase depending on the severity of the injury and other factors such as a history of seizures or multiple head injuries.

To determine whether you might be at risk for seizures or if you have lingering effects from your concussion, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a neurologist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a neurological examination and possibly imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to assess any structural changes in your brain.

As for the hard lump you mentioned at the back of your head, it could be a variety of things. It might be a benign bone growth, a muscle knot, or even a residual effect from the impact. If it is not painful and has not changed in size, it may not be a cause for concern, but it is still worth mentioning to your doctor during your evaluation.

In summary, while your symptoms have resolved, it is important to remain vigilant about any new or recurring symptoms. If you experience headaches, dizziness, or any other concerning signs, seeking medical attention is crucial. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper sleep hygiene and stress management, can help support your brain health and overall well-being. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and care.

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