Post-Accident Nausea and Head Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?

After a car accident with no obvious external injuries, but experiencing nausea and a feeling of wanting to vomit, is further examination necessary?

Hello, two days ago in the evening, I was involved in a collision with a motorcycle.
I only have a slight abrasion on my left eyelid and some minor scratches, along with muscle soreness in my buttocks, arms, and back.
However, since that day, I have had no appetite, although I still feel hungry.
I rested all day yesterday and slept until the afternoon (not due to excessive sleepiness, but simply wanting to rest more).
I only had dinner that day, but just drinking water in the evening made me feel a bit nauseous.
Today, after having breakfast and lunch, the nausea has become more severe.
Since last night, I have felt a slight pressure on the left side of my head (above the left ear, around the temple) and occasionally experience mild throbbing pain, but I can only notice it when I calm down.
Should I go to the hospital for further examination? Which department should I see: neurosurgery, neurology, family medicine, or another? Additionally, I have myopia (600-700 degrees), and when I wear glasses, I experience a sensation of being unable to focus quickly when looking rapidly from left to right (or vice versa), but I do not feel this when not wearing glasses.
Could this also indicate an injury?

Xu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/06

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

Hello, it is common to experience headaches and dizziness after a head injury.
It is recommended to stop working and rest for two to three days.
If discomfort persists, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a neurosurgery clinic for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/01/06

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you’ve been through quite an ordeal after your motorcycle accident. Based on the symptoms you’ve described, including nausea, head pain, and the feeling of pressure around your left temple, it’s important to take these signs seriously. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you should consider regarding your condition and when to seek medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: If your nausea and headache persist or worsen, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Symptoms like these can indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as a concussion or intracranial injury, especially following a head impact.

2. Neurological Symptoms: If you experience any neurological symptoms such as confusion, difficulty speaking, weakness in any part of your body, or changes in vision, you should seek immediate medical care. These could be signs of a more severe injury.

3. Severe Headache: If your headache becomes severe or is described as the worst headache of your life, this could indicate a serious condition such as a subarachnoid hemorrhage or other forms of bleeding in the brain.

4. Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea, especially if accompanied by vomiting, can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure or other complications. If you find it difficult to keep food or fluids down, this warrants a visit to the doctor.

5. Changes in Consciousness: If you experience drowsiness, difficulty waking up, or any changes in your level of consciousness, you should seek emergency medical care.

Which Specialist to See
Given your symptoms, you should consider seeing a neurologist or visiting the emergency department. A neurologist specializes in conditions affecting the brain and nervous system, which is pertinent given your head pain and nausea. If you go to the emergency room, they can perform necessary imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out any serious injuries.

Additional Considerations
- Eye Symptoms: You mentioned having difficulty focusing your vision, especially when moving your eyes quickly. This could be related to your head injury, as trauma can sometimes affect vision. It’s advisable to mention this to your healthcare provider, as they may refer you to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.

- Rest and Hydration: While you’re experiencing these symptoms, ensure you stay hydrated and try to rest as much as possible. Avoid strenuous activities until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional.

- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms. If you notice any new symptoms or if existing symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention.

Conclusion
In summary, given your recent accident and the symptoms you’re experiencing, it’s advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A neurologist or an emergency department can provide the necessary evaluations and treatments. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries. Take care, and I hope you feel better soon!

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