Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hit the back of the head?

Hello, doctor.
Seven days ago, I fainted in the bathroom due to the side effects of medication and hit the back of my head.
However, I regained consciousness immediately after the impact, but I experienced significant headache and dizziness, although my awareness was clear and there was no vomiting.
The next day, I visited a surgeon who advised me to observe my condition at home and provided me with a list of monitoring precautions.
Currently, I experience periods of dizziness and weakness in my limbs throughout the day, often feeling sleepy, especially when I lift my head or turn it, which triggers a sensation of dizziness.
Occasionally, I have headaches, but they are not severe.
Should I return for a follow-up appointment? Additionally, I would like to ask about the definition of hypersomnia.
What qualifies as hypersomnia? Does frequently feeling sleepy count?

wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/05/22

Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery

Your physician's advice is correct, but it is important to consider whether there is a cervical spine injury in addition to the head trauma.
Generally speaking, if there is no loss of consciousness, there is no concern for a concussion; however, there may be some sequelae from the head injury.
Some of your symptoms are part of the sequelae from the head trauma, which will take time to heal.
However, if you are experiencing weakness in your limbs, this symptom could indicate a cervical spine injury.
Since a personal diagnosis cannot be made, further examination may be necessary to confirm this.

Reply Date: 2012/05/22

More Info

After experiencing a concussion, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely, as post-concussion syndrome can manifest in various ways. Given your situation, where you fainted and hit the back of your head, it is understandable to have concerns about your ongoing symptoms, including dizziness, fatigue, and occasional headaches.

Firstly, it is essential to recognize that post-concussion symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as dizziness when moving your head and a general sense of fatigue, are not uncommon after a concussion. However, the persistence of these symptoms warrants careful consideration.

In general, if you experience any of the following symptoms after a concussion, it is advisable to seek medical attention:
1. Worsening Headaches: If your headaches become more severe or change in character, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Persistent Dizziness: If your dizziness does not improve or worsens, especially if it interferes with your daily activities, you should seek medical advice.

3. Changes in Consciousness: Any episodes of confusion, difficulty waking up, or loss of consciousness should be evaluated immediately.

4. Neurological Symptoms: Symptoms such as weakness in limbs, difficulty speaking, or changes in vision should prompt immediate medical attention.

5. Severe Nausea or Vomiting: While you mentioned not experiencing vomiting, if this occurs, it is a cause for concern.

6. Behavioral Changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, or depression can also be signs that further evaluation is needed.

Regarding your question about hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness), it is defined as a condition where an individual experiences excessive daytime sleepiness or prolonged nighttime sleep. If you find yourself frequently feeling the need to sleep during the day, struggling to stay awake during activities, or feeling unrefreshed after a full night's sleep, these could be signs of hypersomnia. It is important to differentiate between normal fatigue following a concussion and excessive sleepiness that may indicate an underlying issue.

In your case, since you are experiencing ongoing symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, which could include imaging studies (like a CT scan or MRI) to rule out any complications from your concussion. Additionally, they may refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist, for further assessment and management of your symptoms.

In conclusion, while some symptoms may improve over time, persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. It is always better to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that you receive the appropriate care and support during your recovery. Your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking timely medical attention can help prevent potential complications and facilitate a smoother recovery process.

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