A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a sudden jolt or blow to the head, or by a force that moves the head and brain rapidly. A fever is not a typical or immediate symptom of a concussion.
Understanding Concussion Symptoms
Following a concussion, individuals commonly experience a range of symptoms directly related to the brain’s temporary dysfunction. These can include a headache, dizziness or imbalance, confusion, and difficulty focusing. Nausea and vomiting are also frequent.
Increased sensitivity to light and sound, fatigue, drowsiness, and memory problems are common. These symptoms reflect the brain’s response to the impact and typically resolve over weeks. A fever is not among these typical symptoms.
When a Fever Appears After a Head Injury
When a fever appears after a head injury, it is usually not a direct result of the concussion itself, but can indicate a different or more serious underlying issue. One potential cause is an infection, such as bacterial or viral meningitis, especially if there was a skull fracture or an open wound. Meningitis involves inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and its symptoms can include fever, severe headache, and neck stiffness.
A fever could also be a sign of a general illness unrelated to the head injury, such as a common cold or the flu. In very rare and severe cases of brain injury, beyond a typical concussion, the brain’s temperature regulation center, the hypothalamus, can be affected. This can lead to a fever, but it is extremely uncommon with concussions.
Fevers can also signal other injuries sustained concurrently with the head trauma, or a broader systemic inflammatory response. While brain inflammation can occur after a concussion and might lead to feeling warm or slightly feverish, a significant fever usually points to a separate concern. A fever typically indicates a need for further investigation.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If a fever is present after a head injury, it warrants immediate medical evaluation. Specific “red flag” symptoms, especially when combined with a fever, indicate the need for an emergency room visit or urgent medical consultation. These include a high fever, a stiff neck, or a headache that is severe or worsening despite pain relief.
Additional concerning signs include persistent vomiting, seizures, or changes in consciousness like difficulty staying awake or unusual drowsiness. Slurred speech, weakness or numbness, and increasing confusion or memory problems also necessitate immediate medical attention. Professional medical evaluation is important to determine the cause of the fever and to rule out serious complications.