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
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Related Questions
Unexpected Discovery During Wiping: What Could It Be?
While I was cleaning myself after using the restroom, I noticed something protruding from my rear. Curious, I grasped it gently with toilet paper and pulled, and to my surprise, it came out easily. I’m a 17-year-old guy, and I can assure you that I’ve never inserted anything into that area. What might this strange thing be? Could it possibly be a tapeworm?
Heparin Storage - Do I Need a Replacement?
Greetings, I'm a 37-year-old who recently underwent knee surgery and was prescribed heparin among other medications. The instructions on the packaging clearly state that it must not be frozen and should not be kept at temperatures exceeding 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). Living on the top floor of my apartment, I've been facing warm weather without the benefit of air conditioning, so I opted to refrigerate the medication (ensuring it's not in the freezer). However, after a few days, I came across information suggesting that heparin should be kept at room temperature. Have I inadvertently compromised the medication, and will I need to buy a new box?
Should I Consult My Doctor Once More?
At 17 years old, I am experiencing some concerning physical symptoms that have me contemplating another visit to my doctor. I frequently endure a sensation of palpitations, along with pounding feelings throughout various parts of my body, such as my fingers and head. Although my heart feels like it’s racing, my pulse rate remains steady at about 75 beats per minute, and my blood pressure is recorded at 102/70. I also struggle with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which occurs almost weekly. In the past, I dealt with numerous panic attacks for about half a year, but thankfully, that situation is now more manageable. All my blood test results appear to be within normal limits, with the exception of my iron levels, which were noted to be moderately low. Additionally, my electrocardiogram (ECG) results came back normal. To provide some context regarding my physical condition, I weigh 82 kg and stand at a height of 181 cm.
Lumps in the Groin Region
As a 25-year-old woman, I've experienced recurring lumps in my inner thigh and bikini area. These bumps appear every month, lasting for about a week before vanishing, only to return the next month. Generally, they are small and don't cause pain, although I do feel a slight discomfort if I press on them. Is this a cause for concern?
Brown Mucus Noticed on One Side When Blowing Nose
Age: 31 Gender: Male Height: 5 feet 9 inches Weight: 140 pounds Ethnicity: Caucasian Location: Ontario, Canada I do not smoke and abstain from alcohol. Current Medications: - ASD (medications for autism): Bupropion 300 mg and Risperidone 0.25 mg. A couple of weeks ago, I experienced a sore throat accompanied by a runny nose and slight sinus discomfort. I consulted with a doctor who prescribed omnaris (ciclesonide) nasal spray. Initially, the mucus I had was mostly clear with some yellowish tints. Given that there were multiple COVID-19 cases at my partner’s workplace, I have been concerned that I might have had a mild case of it. After my recovery, I’ve noticed that when I blow my nose, the left side produces clear mucus, but the right side yields brown mucus. I have been following the usage instructions for the nasal spray as directed by my physician. The consistency and color of the brown mucus resemble BBQ sauce. I plan to book another appointment with my doctor on Monday when their office reopens, but I am seeking insights on what this symptom might indicate in the meantime.