Did my sneeze cause another concussion?

[mpshube]

Hi there.

Three weeks ago I suffered a mild concussion. I've been symptom free for 2 days, but I've recently come down with a cold. A few hours ago, I released a tremendous sneeze(!) which, I think, threw my head forward. With how much force the sneeze accelerated my head, I don't really know. Immediately afterwards, though, the back of my head (site of the original injury) was again throbbing. No dizziness or other symptoms, but it was clear to me that the sneezing (and, I suppose, acceleration of my head) was the cause of headache's return.

So my questions are these: what exactly produces a headache following a concussion?

And is the fact that my headache returned an indication that I have suffered another (sub?)concussive impact? Or could the headache return for another reason?

Remember, the original injury was in the back of my head, about two-three inches above the base of my skull.

Normally, of course, sneezing would create no serious impact on the brain. I'm wondering, though, how "tender" the brain is following a concussion, and whether I might have just endured another...

Thanks for the help, guys.

[Mark in Idaho]

mpshube,

Welcome to NeuroTalk. You have found a good place. Lots of nice people.

There is no way to tell if you head ache is due to jostling your brain or the pressure a sneeze causes on the various tissues in your head or even if your neck has been traumatized again. Any pain that radiates or is sensitive to touch behind your ears is often a manifestation of an upper neck trauma.

You are still very early in your recovery. Just because you had 2 good days does not mean you were recovered. You may roller coaster for some time as you add stress factors such as illness, emotional stress, physical stress, and nutritional stress.

Take care of yourself and you will have less of the roller coaster.

My best to you.

[rmschaver]

You are still healing so I would say you just aggravated your injury a little. Be aware for major complications,I.e. changes to balance, nausea, and other symptoms DRs feel may indicate the need for med attention. Seek said medical attention if you need it.