Concerns About Head Injury and Anxiety
I’m a 17-year-old female, standing 5’4” and weighing 11 stone. I deal with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), but I’m not currently taking any medications. About 14 hours ago, I experienced a non-epileptic seizure, which is a common occurrence for me due to my FND. While sitting at my desk at home, I suddenly fell forward and hit my forehead hard. Almost right after the impact, I developed a headache and felt significant pain. I attempted to relax in bed, but I noticed that the lights seemed extraordinarily bright, so I switched them off. This moment triggered a wave of anxiety, causing me to start searching for information about my symptoms online. I feared that I might have sustained a concussion or a brain bleed, which intensified my health-related anxiety. Eventually, I managed to fall asleep. When I woke up this morning, the headache persisted, and I find myself unsure about what steps to take next. Although I don’t have any additional symptoms, I feel a rising paranoia regarding my condition. I would like advice on what to do next and want to understand the chances of a severe outcome from my situation.
Answers (1)
8/22/2025, 11:11:26 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel anxious after experiencing a head injury, especially given your history with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Your symptoms, such as headache and heightened sensitivity to light, can naturally increase your worry about potential complications like a concussion or brain bleed.
Explanation
After hitting your forehead, it’s common to experience headaches and light sensitivity, which can occur due to various reasons, including post-traumatic headache or even heightened anxiety following the event. While your anxiety is completely valid, it's important to note that serious outcomes like concussions or brain bleeds typically have specific signs that would likely warrant more immediate attention.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep a close eye on your headache and any other symptoms over the next 24-48 hours. If you notice severe worsening of the headache, persistent vomiting, confusion, difficulty balancing, or any changes in vision, these could be signs of a more serious issue.
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Rest and Reduce Stimuli:
- Ensure you’re taking enough rest. Avoid bright lights and loud sounds for now, as they can exacerbate headaches and anxiety. Create a quiet, comfortable environment.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished:
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat small, healthy meals if you can. This can help overall well-being.
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Practice Relaxation Techniques:
- To help with your rising anxiety, it may be beneficial to use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises. These methods can help ground you and manage anxiety more effectively.
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Seek Support:
- Talk to someone you trust about your experience and feelings. Sharing your concerns can provide validation and support in this moment.
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Re-evaluate in a Day or Two:
- If your symptoms do not improve or you remain very anxious about your condition, it’s advisable to consider contacting a healthcare provider to discuss your situation. They can reassure you and help evaluate your symptoms more thoroughly.
Remember, your worries are understandable, but focusing on actionable steps can help you feel more in control. If you need further guidance or have more specific concerns, feel free to reach out.
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