Head Injury, Age 4 And Older: Check Your Symptoms

Content provided by Healthwise

When to See a Doctor

Have you had any new or ongoing symptoms after a head injury?

See significance of new or ongoing symptoms if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Have you had changes in your ability to think, remember, or solve problems?

Yes

Have you had changes in your ability to concentrate?

Yes

Have you had changes in your personality?

Yes

Do you have dizziness, lightheadedness, or unsteadiness that makes it hard to stand or walk (ataxia)?

Yes

Do you have blurred or double vision?

Yes

Do you have ringing in your ears or hearing loss in one or both ears?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have any mild symptoms of a concussion that did not develop until 1 to 2 weeks after a head injury?

Yes

Have you had mild symptoms of a concussion for more than 4 weeks after a head injury?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	July 09, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer