Concussion Symptoms After a Fall: What to Watch For

Suspected concussion?

Hello Doctor: My family member fell in the bathroom 6 days ago.
I'm not sure if they hit their head, but their symptoms are very similar to a concussion (according to what I found online).
They have been experiencing dizziness, weakness in their limbs, feeling faint while walking, and seeing double vision, although their consciousness is clear.
On the day of the incident, they vomited once or twice.
For the next three days, they slept a lot, and in the last two days, they feel slightly better, but they still have dizziness and are unable to work.
Today, they visited a nearby general clinic, but the doctor only treated it as a common cold and said if it doesn't improve, they will do a blood test in two days.
I would like to ask if this situation could be a concussion? Thank you.

Afa Gou, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/14

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Is your age possibly incorrect? If you are experiencing weakness in your limbs, double vision, and if you tend to veer to one side while walking, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly to rule out any intracranial lesions.

Reply Date: 2016/03/14

More Info

It sounds like your family member is experiencing symptoms that could indeed be indicative of a concussion, especially following a fall. Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur when the head experiences a sudden impact or jolt, leading to a variety of symptoms. Given the details you've provided, let's break down the symptoms and what to watch for.

Symptoms of Concussion
1. Dizziness and Balance Issues: The dizziness and feeling of unsteadiness when walking are common symptoms of a concussion. The brain's ability to process balance can be affected, leading to these sensations.

2. Visual Disturbances: Seeing double or having blurred vision can also occur after a concussion. This is due to the brain's processing centers being affected by the trauma.

3. Nausea and Vomiting: The episodes of vomiting you mentioned, especially occurring shortly after the fall, are significant. Nausea is a common symptom of concussions and can be triggered by the brain's response to injury.

4. Cognitive Symptoms: While you noted that the person is alert and aware, concussions can also lead to confusion, difficulty concentrating, or memory issues. It’s important to monitor for any changes in cognitive function.

5. Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances: Feeling excessively tired or needing to sleep more than usual is another symptom. The brain requires rest to heal after a concussion.

What to Watch For
Given the symptoms described, it is crucial to monitor the following:
- Worsening Symptoms: If symptoms such as severe headaches, increased confusion, repeated vomiting, or seizures occur, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. These could indicate a more severe brain injury.

- Changes in Consciousness: If there are any changes in alertness or consciousness, such as difficulty waking the person or they seem unusually drowsy, this is a red flag.

- Behavioral Changes: Look for any unusual behavior, irritability, or emotional changes, which can also be signs of a concussion.

Recommendations
1. Follow-Up Care: Since the initial visit to the clinic did not address the potential concussion adequately, it may be wise to seek a second opinion, preferably from a healthcare provider who specializes in brain injuries or sports medicine.

2. Rest and Recovery: Encourage your family member to rest, both physically and cognitively. This means limiting screen time, reading, and other activities that require concentration.

3. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure they stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support recovery.

4. Gradual Return to Activities: Once symptoms begin to improve, a gradual return to normal activities is recommended, but this should be done under medical guidance.

5. Monitoring: Keep a close eye on symptoms over the next few days. If there is no improvement or if symptoms worsen, return to a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, while your family member's symptoms could be consistent with a concussion, it is essential to monitor their condition closely and seek appropriate medical care. Concussions can have varying degrees of severity, and proper management is crucial for recovery. If symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical evaluation.

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