Is Your Dizziness a Sign of Concussion After a Head Injury?

Dizziness or concussion?

Hello Doctor: Three days ago in the afternoon, I hit my head at work.
At that time, I only experienced a headache for a while, and there were no other symptoms.
However, during the night, I suddenly experienced severe dizziness and vomiting, and I was unable to lie down or turn my head.
I was taken to the emergency room where I received three infusions for dizziness and was prescribed anti-nausea medication.
The doctor diagnosed me with vertigo.
However, I am still experiencing persistent dizziness, and the medication has not improved my condition.
Could this be a symptom of a concussion?

Zhang Wenlong, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/24

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

If the dizziness and vomiting are episodic and related to changes in head position, it is likely due to vestibular imbalance in the inner ear rather than a concussion.
Of course, inner ear dizziness can also be associated with head trauma, as external forces can cause dislocation of the otoliths in the vestibule and semicircular canals, leading to dizziness and vomiting with changes in posture and gravitational shifts.
If symptoms such as headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and vomiting become increasingly pronounced and persistent, a concussion and other complications from head trauma cannot be ruled out, and medical attention should be sought promptly.

Reply Date: 2015/10/24

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning symptoms following your head injury, and it's important to address these appropriately. Based on your description, the dizziness and vomiting you experienced after hitting your head could indeed be indicative of a concussion, which is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Concussions can occur after a blow to the head, and they often present with a variety of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. The fact that your symptoms worsened during the night after the injury is particularly noteworthy. It's not uncommon for symptoms to develop or intensify hours or even days after the initial injury.
In your case, the dizziness you are experiencing, especially if it is persistent and accompanied by nausea or vomiting, warrants further evaluation. While the emergency department provided you with treatment and medication, if your symptoms have not improved, it may be necessary to follow up with a healthcare provider who specializes in brain injuries, such as a neurologist or a concussion specialist. They may recommend additional imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out any more serious complications like bleeding in the brain or other structural injuries.

It's also important to monitor for any worsening symptoms. If you experience increased confusion, difficulty waking up, severe headaches, or any new neurological symptoms (like weakness or numbness), you should seek immediate medical attention.
In terms of recovery, concussions can vary widely in terms of healing time. Some individuals may recover within a few days, while others may take weeks or even months to fully recover. Rest is crucial during this period, both physical and cognitive. This means avoiding activities that require intense concentration or physical exertion, including screen time, reading, and sports. Gradually returning to normal activities under the guidance of a healthcare professional is essential.

As for the dizziness, it can sometimes be a result of vestibular dysfunction following a concussion. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy may be beneficial in these cases, helping to retrain your balance and reduce dizziness.
In conclusion, while your symptoms could be related to a concussion, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Make sure to communicate all your symptoms clearly during your follow-up visits, and do not hesitate to seek care if your condition worsens. Your health and safety should always come first, and getting the right care will help you on your path to recovery.

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