Head Injury from a Fall: Exploring Long-Term Effects and Symptoms

Head injury from a car accident?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if there is a connection between a head injury I sustained over a decade ago when I fell off my bike, landing directly on the back left side of my head, where a lump still exists.
In the following years, I started experiencing swelling on the right side of my neck, discomfort in my right eye, frequent double vision, and stiffness in my shoulders and neck.
Could these two issues be related?

Junmin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/28

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

Basically, theoretically, there is no causal relationship.

Reply Date: 2015/11/28

More Info

Head injuries can have a wide range of long-term effects, particularly when they involve significant trauma, such as a fall or a collision. In your case, the history of a head injury from a fall over a decade ago, coupled with the persistent swelling in the left posterior area of your head, raises several important considerations regarding the potential long-term consequences of such an injury.

Firstly, the presence of a persistent lump or swelling in the area where you sustained the injury could indicate a chronic condition known as a hematoma or a post-traumatic cyst. These conditions can occur when blood collects outside of blood vessels, often due to trauma, and may take a long time to resolve. In some cases, they can lead to ongoing discomfort or pressure in the area. If the lump has not changed in size or has become painful, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional for further evaluation, including imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any underlying issues.

The symptoms you describe, such as discomfort in the right side of your neck, visual disturbances like double vision, and stiffness in the shoulder and neck, could potentially be related to the original head injury. It is not uncommon for head injuries to lead to secondary issues, such as cervical spine problems, which can manifest as neck pain, stiffness, and even neurological symptoms like visual disturbances. The neck and head are closely interconnected, and trauma to the head can sometimes lead to compensatory changes in posture or muscle tension that affect the neck and shoulders.

Moreover, the visual symptoms you are experiencing, such as double vision (diplopia), could be indicative of nerve involvement or muscle imbalance related to the injury. The cranial nerves responsible for eye movement can be affected by trauma, leading to issues with vision. It is crucial to have these symptoms evaluated by a specialist, such as a neurologist or an ophthalmologist, who can assess the underlying causes and recommend appropriate treatment.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing—persistent swelling, neck discomfort, visual disturbances, and shoulder stiffness—could indeed be interconnected and may stem from the head injury you sustained years ago. It is essential to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional who can perform a thorough examination and possibly recommend imaging studies to determine the exact nature of your symptoms. Early intervention can be key in managing any long-term effects of head injuries and improving your overall quality of life.

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