Dizziness and Numbness After Concussion Recovery

Dizziness and numbness?

Hello, doctor.
Over two months ago, I had a concussion due to a car accident, but I have since recovered (I underwent an MRI and there were no abnormalities).
I no longer experience dizziness, and my neck is also normal.
Recently, I caught a cold and have been forcefully blowing my nose, which involves some straining of my neck.
During this process, I occasionally experienced very brief dizziness and slight numbness in my right hand, but this does not happen every time and lasts only for a moment and is very mild.
Is this normal? Thank you.

hgf, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/06/22

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

If there is a change in ear pressure causing dizziness and even hearing issues after a concussion from a car accident, it may be due to a perilymph fistula in the inner ear, although this is rare and the symptoms tend to last longer.
However, it would not be accompanied by numbness in the right hand.
If there are neck issues, numbness in the right hand can occur, but dizziness is not very common.
It is advisable to monitor whether the frequency of symptoms increases or if new neurological symptoms arise, and then consider further evaluation by a physician.
If not, it is best to avoid vigorous head and neck movements or straining for the time being.

Reply Date: 2013/06/22

More Info

After a concussion, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience lingering symptoms, including dizziness and numbness, even after the initial recovery period. Your experience of having a brief episode of dizziness and mild numbness in your right hand after a forceful action, such as blowing your nose, can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it's important to understand that concussions can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms due to the brain's sensitivity to changes in pressure, movement, or stress. Even after a concussion has been diagnosed and treated, the brain may still be in a state of recovery, making it susceptible to certain triggers. The act of forcefully blowing your nose can create a sudden increase in intracranial pressure, which might lead to transient symptoms like dizziness or tingling sensations in the extremities.

The brief nature of your symptoms—being momentary and mild—suggests that it may not be a cause for immediate concern. However, it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely. If they become more frequent, severe, or are accompanied by other concerning signs such as persistent headaches, changes in vision, or difficulty with coordination, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation.

In terms of the numbness you experienced in your right hand, this could be related to several factors. It might be a result of nerve compression or irritation, which can occur due to muscle tension or posture, especially if you were straining during the action. Additionally, it could be a residual effect of the concussion, as concussions can sometimes lead to changes in how the brain processes sensory information.

Here are some recommendations to consider as you continue your recovery:
1. Rest and Recovery: Ensure you are allowing your body adequate time to recover. Avoid activities that could lead to further strain or injury, particularly those that involve sudden movements or exertion.

2. Hydration and Nutrition: Maintain good hydration and a balanced diet to support your overall health and recovery. Dehydration can exacerbate dizziness and other symptoms.

3. Gradual Return to Activities: If you are resuming physical activities, do so gradually. Start with light exercises and slowly increase intensity as tolerated.

4. Physical Therapy: If dizziness persists or if you have concerns about balance or coordination, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide exercises tailored to your needs and help you regain strength and stability.

5. Follow-Up with a Healthcare Provider: Since you have a history of concussion, it is advisable to keep in touch with your healthcare provider. They can monitor your recovery and provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

6. Avoid Triggers: If you notice that certain actions (like blowing your nose) trigger symptoms, try to avoid them or perform them more gently to see if that alleviates the issue.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be normal in the context of concussion recovery, it is essential to remain vigilant. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Your health and safety should always come first, especially after experiencing a concussion.

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