Could I have gotten concussed from iPad falling short range?
 

I have a history of previous concussions and chronic post concussion syndrome so I tend to freak out when I drop anything on my head, even if it's something that other people would consider small. That being said, I was lying down and reading from an iPad and I must have fallen asleep or something because I was awoken by the iPad falling on my forehead/brow bone area from probably what was an upright position... Not really sure. It's a heavy iPad Pro with a case but couldn't have been falling from that high a distance. but I think it was propped up either on my leg or I was holding it on my torso and I must have moved and caused it to fall on me and bang my head. It hurt and I was startled and now it is bruised. I tend to manifest concussion symptoms from anxiety when I drop things like this so I don't think that what I'm feeling now is an accurate telltale of concussion. Like I've felt symptomatic before from anxiety.
But my question is... could this have caused any actual damage or concussion? I feel that nothing all that bad happened but my anxiety is through the roof right now and I'm probably overreacting and freaking out. I keep reenacting the moment in my head trying to think of whether or not it could do damage. Any advice?

kyla239,

Welcome to NeuroTalk PCS forum.

I'm glad to see you recognize you anxiety issues and how it freaks you out when you get a head bump. That is a good start to taking control of this issue.

I won't even address the iPad falling. I decided years ago while my wife was going through cancer surgery that I would not longer respond to those illogical questions. We need to pick out battles. Minor bumps are not a concern.

The simple fact for you to understand is this.

It requires a force or impact of 60 to 80 G or more to cause a concussion.

A good example of this force can be with a bowling ball. Imagine dropping a 16 pound bowling ball on your toes or your head from 1 foot directly above. That is the minimum impact required to cause a concussion.

A second point is simple. What would you do IF somebody told you that impact was or could be a concussion? Would you try to reverse time? Would you go to the doctor and try to get "treatment"? Would you change your life plans? What difference would such a diagnosis make?

I've had 14 memorable concussions over 40+ years. 1 severe, 3 serious concussions, a few moderate concussions and the rest are mild. I know a lot about dealing with concussions. Worry is counterproductive to getting better and living life.

As an extra, Can we help you with your chronic Post Concussion Syndrome?
There are a lot of things you can do to minimize PCS symptoms. I try to check in once a day for newbies like you and other questions.

Welcome to the forum, Kyla.

You mentioned anxiety. Chronic low-grade brain inflammation is linked to anxiety. Concussions are also an inflammatory condition. That's why people with a history of anxiety struggle with concussion symptoms.

So try to treat the underlying cause of the inflammation as a first step.

For example, a lot of the foods we eat cause inflammation, so stop eating fast food, processed foods, fried foods, and sugar.
10 Foods and Drinks Linked to Anxiety | U.S. News

The gut microbiome also influences anxiety. An overgrowth of bad bacteria in the gut can cause inflammation in other parts of the body, including the brain, which contributes to anxiety. So address your gut health before taking medications.

Welcome kyla239. :welcome_sign: