Head Injury After Fall: Seeking Help for Persistent Symptoms

Fell off the table and hit my head against the adjacent table?

Hello Dr.
Zhang: I am a sophomore in high school.
About six months ago (last summer), I participated in a summer program at school, and while cleaning the air conditioning, I climbed on a desk and accidentally fell, injuring my head.
There were no external injuries, and initially, I didn't have any significant aftereffects.
However, for the past three months, I have been experiencing persistent headaches, and during physical education classes, I suddenly feel dizzy if I engage in activities for too long.
I have seen a doctor and undergone an EEG, which showed no issues.
The doctor mentioned it might be Tourette syndrome and advised me to lose weight (?).
Before the head injury, I had no related symptoms, and these issues started about three months after the injury.
Should I seek further help? If so, which specialty should I consult? I kindly request your response.

Wang Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/01

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

If the head is continuously nodding and the dizziness is not severe, it is generally advisable to continue monitoring the situation.
However, it is important to avoid vigorous activities.
If discomfort persists, a consultation with a neurologist for further evaluation is recommended.

Reply Date: 2016/02/01

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning symptoms following your head injury from the fall. Given your description of persistent headaches and dizziness, it is crucial to take these symptoms seriously, even if initial evaluations did not reveal any significant issues.

Head injuries can lead to a variety of complications, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Common symptoms following a head injury include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and balance issues. These can sometimes indicate conditions such as post-concussion syndrome, which can occur even if a concussion was not diagnosed at the time of the injury. Post-concussion syndrome can manifest weeks or even months after the initial injury and may include symptoms like headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Your experience of headaches that worsen with physical activity, such as during sports, is particularly noteworthy. This could suggest that your brain is still recovering from the trauma, and exertion may exacerbate your symptoms. It is also concerning that your symptoms began three months after the injury, which is atypical but not unheard of in cases of delayed post-concussion syndrome.

Given that you have already seen a doctor and undergone a brain wave test (EEG), it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider who specializes in brain injuries. A neurologist would be an appropriate choice, as they can conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and may recommend further imaging studies, such as an MRI, to rule out any underlying issues that may not have been detected previously.

Additionally, if you are experiencing anxiety or distress related to your symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional. Sometimes, the psychological impact of a head injury can contribute to ongoing symptoms, and addressing these concerns can be an essential part of your recovery.

In summary, I strongly recommend seeking further medical evaluation from a neurologist. Be sure to communicate all your symptoms clearly, including the timing and nature of your headaches and dizziness. It is also important to mention any changes in your daily life or activities that may have been affected since your injury. Early intervention can be key in managing symptoms and ensuring a full recovery. Don't hesitate to advocate for your health and seek the help you need. Your well-being is paramount, and addressing these symptoms sooner rather than later can lead to better outcomes.

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