Experiencing a Head Injury While on Blood Thinners During Pregnancy – Should I Just Keep an Eye on It?
Age: 29 Medical Background: Epilepsy, history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), currently in the 16th week of pregnancy. Current Medications: Keppra, Lamictal, Lovenox (administered at 80 mg twice daily). Today, while shopping, I suddenly felt dizzy and overheated, leading to a momentary loss of consciousness. I fell backward and struck the back of my head on the concrete floor, which had a thin carpet laid over it. At the moment, I'm experiencing pain in the right side of my neck and the back right area of my head. Is it acceptable for me to monitor my condition at home, or should I consider heading to the emergency room immediately?
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 8:50:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s important to take your situation seriously given the specifics of your head injury, especially since you're on blood thinners and are pregnant. While monitoring might seem acceptable, there are several factors to consider.
Key Points:
- Concerns with Head Injuries on Blood Thinners: Blood thinners can increase the risk of bleeding in the brain if you sustain a head injury, and this risk is heightened during pregnancy.
- Symptoms that warrant immediate attention: Symptoms like severe headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, or any neurological changes should prompt urgent medical evaluation.
Explanation:
Your dizziness and momentary loss of consciousness raise concern for a concussion or other head trauma. The pain you’re experiencing in your neck and head also needs to be carefully assessed, especially against your background of epilepsy and use of blood thinners like Lovenox.
Next Steps:
-
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given that you fell and hit your head, and considering your blood thinner regimen, it's advisable to go to the emergency room right away for evaluation. This is critical to rule out any serious injuries or complications, especially for the safety of both you and your baby.
-
Avoid any activities that could risk further injury, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional.
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Communicate Your Symptoms Clearly at the hospital, especially regarding your pregnancy, epilepsy, and the medications you are taking.
Your health and safety, as well as that of your baby, are of utmost importance. Don’t hesitate to seek the care you need.
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