My Husband Was In 2 Car Accidents Within 3 Weeks

Posted on Thu, 21 Feb 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 Answered on

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Question : My husband was in 2 car accidents within 3 weeks of each other a year and a half ago. They told him at the time there was nothing wrong. He has now been told it could possibly be brain swelling however they have done no testing. I would just like to get an idea if I give you his symptoms... He has left side head pain constantly, he has severe onset headaches, chest pains, numbness on the left side, his face, arm and I have also noticed him dragging his leg sometimes. After intimacy he always passes out immediately after orgasm and wakes up having chest pains. He has a shortness of breath a lot. I am very concered.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
may not be related to head injury...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Based on the details provided, the two accidents were about 18 months ago. Yes, immediately following head injury, swelling and concussion are expected. But these changes resolve over a period of time. And 18 months is more than enough time for resolution of any swelling or concussion that could have occurred. Unless he had a fairly large bleed and brain damage he should be neurologically fine.
But since he has aforementioned symptoms, I don't think they are related to past head injuries. Perhaps the symptoms are related to chronic headaches (migraine) and or somatic disorder.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you nave any other specific questions.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Prasad J (31 minutes later)

What is sormatic disorder? And he has had these persistent recurring problems since the accidents. We have just not gotten anyone to do anything about it. He was prescribed Topamax at one point and it made things worse so the dr told him to quit taking it.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Abnormal body response...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

In simple terms somatic disorder refers to a condition where the body responds involuntarily with wide variety of symptoms in response to a triggering factor. The triggering factor in most cases is stressors. It is a mind related condition and there are no other physical causes to explain those symptoms. Neuropsychiatrist or a psychiatrist will know about it and can treat you. In my opinion you should consider consulting them if you haven't seen one yet.

Hope this is clear. Let me know if you need clarifications.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar