[33F] Post-fall with neurological symptoms
Patient Description
A 33-year-old female experienced a fall on icy steps, leading to a loss of consciousness and subsequent neurological symptoms. Post-incident, the patient reports slurred speech, altered mental status characterized by atypical decision-making, and excessive sleepiness, including an episode of waking up in front of an open sliding glass door during a snowstorm. The patient's mother observed these changes and advised against driving due to safety concerns. Prior to the fall, the patient was unaware of having celiac disease. There is no mention of seeking immediate medical attention post-fall or any current management of the symptoms.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you've provided, you may have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) when you fell. Symptoms of TBI can include confusion, slurred speech, excessive sleepiness, and changes in behavior.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): This occurs when an external force injures the brain. TBI can be classified based on severity, mechanism (closed or penetrating head injury), or other features (like occurring in a specific location or over a widespread area).
- Treatment for TBI often involves rest and medication to relieve pain. Severe cases may require surgery.
What you can do
It's important to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you've had a traumatic brain injury. Symptoms may not appear until days or weeks following the injury. A concussion is the mildest type, but it can still cause serious health problems.
What you should look out for
Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent headache or headache that worsens
- Repeated vomiting or nausea
- Convulsions or seizures
- An inability to awaken from sleep
- Dilation of one or both pupils of the eyes
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness in the extremities
- Loss of coordination
Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.
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1 yr ago
