Head Injury from Collision: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Head trauma from hitting a post?

Hello, last night while I was having dinner and laughing, I leaned back without realizing there was a pillar behind me, and I hit my head hard against it, making a loud noise and causing a lot of pain.
At that moment, it felt like there were aftershocks in my head.
However, there were no visible injuries, and I didn't do anything to address it.
On my way home, I felt a bit of discomfort in my stomach, but I didn't feel like vomiting.
While trying to sleep, I felt a bit strange, but I thought it might be psychological.
Should I see a doctor for this situation? Thank you.

Vinci, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/25

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

If you experience persistent and worsening headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, please schedule an appointment with a neurosurgery clinic for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/02/25

More Info

Head injuries can be concerning, especially when they result from a significant impact, such as colliding with a solid object like a pillar. In your case, the fact that you experienced a loud noise upon impact and felt immediate pain suggests that the injury could be serious, even if there are no visible external wounds.
When assessing whether to seek medical attention after a head injury, several factors should be considered. The symptoms you described, such as the sensation of "aftershocks" in your head and the feeling of discomfort in your stomach, warrant careful observation. While it’s common to feel a bit disoriented or uneasy after a head injury, especially if it was forceful, certain signs should prompt immediate medical evaluation.

Here are some key symptoms to watch for after a head injury:
1. Loss of Consciousness: If you lose consciousness, even briefly, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.

2. Persistent or Worsening Headache: If your headache intensifies or does not improve, it could indicate a more serious issue, such as a concussion or intracranial bleeding.

3. Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling nauseous or actually vomiting after a head injury can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure or concussion.

4. Confusion or Disorientation: If you experience confusion, difficulty concentrating, or memory issues, these could be signs of a concussion.

5. Balance Issues or Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or having trouble maintaining balance can indicate a problem with the brain's function.

6. Visual Disturbances: Blurred or double vision can also be a sign of a serious injury.

7. Seizures: If you experience any seizures, you should seek immediate medical care.

8. Fluid or Blood from Nose or Ears: This could indicate a skull fracture and requires urgent medical attention.

Given that you mentioned feeling a bit strange while sleeping and having a sensation in your stomach, it’s advisable to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any of the above symptoms developing, or if your condition worsens, you should seek medical attention promptly.

In general, if there is any doubt about the severity of a head injury, it is better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan, to rule out any serious injuries like fractures or bleeding within the skull.

In summary, while you may not have visible injuries, the nature of the impact and your subsequent symptoms suggest that it would be prudent to seek medical advice. It’s always better to be safe when it comes to head injuries, as complications can arise even after a seemingly minor incident. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to visit a healthcare provider.

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