A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) resulting from a jolt or blow to the head, or even a forceful impact to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly. This sudden movement can cause the brain to shift within the skull, disrupting normal brain function. Many people often wonder whether a fever is a normal symptom to experience after such an injury.
Concussions and Body Temperature Regulation
The body’s internal temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus. This area acts like a thermostat, constantly monitoring and adjusting body temperature to maintain a stable internal state, known as homeostasis. It coordinates functions like sweating or shivering.
A concussion primarily involves a functional disruption of the brain’s normal processes rather than significant structural damage that would directly impair the hypothalamus. While the brain experiences chemical changes and temporary dysfunction after a concussion, these changes typically do not lead to a systemic inflammatory response strong enough to cause a fever on their own. Thus, a concussion alone is not associated with an elevated body temperature.
Fever as a Sign of Complication
If a fever develops after a head injury, it signals a more serious underlying issue, not a direct symptom of the concussion itself. One potential cause for fever in this context is an infection, such as meningitis, which is an inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can arise from various infectious agents and may present with symptoms like fever, headache, and neck stiffness.
Fever may also indicate a more severe brain injury, such as an intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding within the skull) or a contusion (brain bruise), which can trigger inflammatory responses. The presence of blood in brain tissue can initiate an inflammatory cascade, releasing chemicals that elevate body temperature. Additionally, a fever after a head injury could simply be due to an unrelated illness, like a common cold or the flu, which coincidentally occurs around the same time.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Care
A fever after a head injury always requires medical assessment to rule out serious complications. Immediate medical attention is also necessary if other concerning “red flag” symptoms are present. These symptoms can include a headache that worsens over time, repeated vomiting, or increasing confusion.
Other signs warranting urgent evaluation include seizures, weakness or numbness, slurred speech, or significant changes in behavior or consciousness. Seeking prompt medical care for these symptoms, especially when accompanied by a fever, is important for proper diagnosis and management.