Should We Have Gone to the ER?
Age: 27, Male Height: 5'10", Weight: 180 lbs Medications: None Smoking: Not a user Alcohol: Consumed occasionally Last Friday, my partner accidentally struck the side of his head while using a breaker bar on our vehicle. Initially, he experienced some dizziness which lasted for a brief period but then transitioned into a headache. Despite this, he chose not to seek medical attention at that time. Throughout the week, he has been experiencing intermittent pain paired with some discomfort in his jaw, prompting me to suggest that he schedule an appointment with his primary care physician for the following week. However, this morning he awoke feeling even stranger in his jaw, accompanied by a persistent headache and noticeable swelling, about an inch in diameter, at the point of impact. Given the evolving symptoms, we opted to head to the emergency room instead of the nearby urgent care facility, which only offers basic X-ray services and limited testing options if necessary. Nevertheless, the staff at the ER didn’t seem overly enthusiastic about our visit. Now, we're left questioning whether we made the right decision or if we might be overreacting. Throughout our lives, we've often heard that head injuries should not be taken lightly, which adds to our concerns.
Answers (1)
6/21/2025, 1:50:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to have concerns after a head injury, especially when new symptoms arise. Based on your description, your decision to go to the emergency room appears to be prudent given the evolving symptoms your partner has experienced, including persistent headaches, jaw discomfort, and swelling at the impact site.
Explanation
Head injuries can sometimes result in significant complications, such as concussions or swelling in the brain. Even secondary symptoms like jaw discomfort and swelling can indicate underlying issues that might need evaluation by a healthcare professional. The guideline is that if any symptoms change or worsen after an injury, particularly to the head, seeking medical attention is advisable.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Since you're at the ER, make sure the medical staff is fully aware of all your partner's symptoms—this includes the headache intensity, any changes in vision, balance issues, or increased swelling.
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Follow Up Care: Once you receive medical attention, if any follow-up or further testing is recommended, it’s essential to comply. This may include rest, imaging studies (like a CT scan), or referrals to specialists if needed.
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Educate on Warning Signs: Post-ER visit, keep an eye on any new or worsening symptoms such as confusion, vomiting, seizures, or worsening headache. If any of these occur, immediate medical attention should be sought.
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Rest and Recovery: If your partner is discharged, encourage rests, such as avoiding physical exertion and screen time initially. Hydration and pain management, as per the advice of the healthcare team, are critical.
Your attentiveness to his well-being is commendable, and your proactive measures in seeking care are appropriate given the circumstances. Trust your instincts, and ensure that you both stay informed about the signs that require further attention. If you have any further questions or should symptoms persist, don't hesitate to engage with healthcare providers for guidance.
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