Is this a concussion?
Hello doctor, last Saturday I bumped my head against a wall, and it was quite painful at the time.
Since then, I've been experiencing dizziness, although the headache has become less frequent.
Nausea has been more noticeable today, and my body temperature seems to be higher than usual; I feel warm, but my daily routine hasn't been significantly affected.
I'm just feeling very dizzy and lightheaded.
Could this be related to a concussion, or is it just a common cold? If I need to go to the hospital, which department should I see? Thank you.
Y, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/09/15
Dr. Huang Junxiong reply Surgery
Hello: Based on your description, a concussion is possible.
I recommend that you consult a neurosurgeon.
~ Dr.
Huang Jun-Hsiung
Reply Date: 2010/09/15
More Info
Based on your description, it is indeed possible that you may be experiencing symptoms related to a concussion, especially since you mentioned hitting your head against a wall and subsequently experiencing dizziness, nausea, and elevated body temperature. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur after a blow to the head, and it can lead to a variety of symptoms that may not appear immediately.
Symptoms of Concussion
Common symptoms of a concussion include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Confusion or feeling "foggy"
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Fatigue
- Changes in sleep patterns
In your case, the dizziness and nausea are particularly concerning, especially since they have persisted since the injury. The fact that you experienced a significant impact and are now feeling these symptoms suggests that it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation.
When to Seek Help
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Worsening headaches
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty waking up or staying awake
- Confusion or disorientation
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Seizures
- Any unusual behavior or mood changes
Given that you have also noted a higher body temperature, it is important to consider that this could be indicative of an infection or another underlying issue, which may or may not be related to the head injury.
What to Do Next
1. Visit a Healthcare Provider: It is advisable to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. You can visit an urgent care clinic or the emergency department, where they can conduct a thorough evaluation. If you have access to a primary care physician, you may also consult them first.
2. Specialty Care: If you go to the emergency room, they will likely refer you to a neurologist or a specialist in brain injuries if they suspect a concussion or other serious injury.
3. Diagnostic Tests: The healthcare provider may recommend imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out more serious injuries like a skull fracture or bleeding in the brain.
4. Rest and Monitoring: If a concussion is diagnosed, the standard treatment involves physical and cognitive rest. This means limiting activities that require concentration, such as reading, using a computer, or playing video games, as well as avoiding physical exertion.
Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms following the head injury could be related to a concussion, and the presence of nausea and elevated body temperature warrants prompt medical evaluation. Do not hesitate to seek help, as early intervention can be crucial in managing concussions effectively. Remember to communicate all your symptoms clearly to the healthcare provider to ensure a comprehensive assessment. Take care, and I hope you feel better soon!
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