A subdural hematoma is a collection of blood in the subdural space, which is the area between the surface of the brain and the inner layer of the skull, known as the dura mater. It can be a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. This blog is designed to help you better understand what a subdural hematoma is, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is a subdural hematoma?
A subdural hematoma occurs when one or more blood vessels rupture in the subdural space, allowing blood to accumulate and put pressure on the brain.
Depending on the time of onset, there are three main types:
- Acute subdural hematoma: Occurs shortly after a severe head injury and is usually very dangerous.
- Subacute subdural hematoma: Develops days or weeks after an injury.
- Chronic subdural hematoma: Develops slowly, often after a minor blow, especially in older individuals or patients with blood clotting disorders. In these cases, there is often a period after the injury where the patient feels fine and continues with normal life.
Common causes
- Head trauma: Traffic accidents, falls, or high-impact sports.
- Newborns: Commonly present with "shaken baby syndrome," caused by forceful shaking, which can be dangerous or potentially fatal.
- Old age: As the brain slightly shrinks with age, the risk of blood vessel rupture increases, even with unnoticed injuries.
- Anticoagulants: The use of blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin increases the risk of bleeding in this area, usually following a blow.
- Chronic alcoholism: Weakens blood vessels and increases the risk of trauma.
- Spontaneous: Sometimes they occur without any apparent reason.
Symptoms to watch for
- Symptoms vary depending on the speed and amount of blood accumulation, but may include:
- Persistent headache.
- Memory impairment.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Confusion or changes in mental state.
- Excessive drowsiness.
- Seizures.
- Difficulty speaking, moving, or maintaining balance.
- Loss of consciousness in severe cases.
- Vision problems.
If you or someone close to you exhibits these symptoms after a head injury, seek medical attention immediately.
Diagnosis
It is important to seek medical help immediately after a head injury.
In addition to a careful physical examination of the brain and nervous system, subdural hematoma diagnosis is made using imaging tests such as:
- Computed tomography (CT): A quick and effective method to detect bleeding.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Useful for detecting older or smaller hematomas.
Treatment
Although it is an emergency situation, treatment depends on the size and severity of the hematoma:
- Observation: In mild cases, the doctor may recommend careful monitoring and repeat imaging to ensure no worsening.
- Surgical drainage:
- Craniotomy: For large or complex hematomas or to remove solid blood clots.
- Burr holes (trepanation): A minimally invasive technique to drain chronic or small hematomas and relieve brain pressure.
- Medications: These may include drugs to control intracranial pressure or medications to prevent or manage seizures.
Recovery and post-care
- Regular monitoring: It is important to attend follow-up appointments to ensure there is no additional blood accumulation.
- Rehabilitation: Some patients may require physical, occupational, or speech therapy.
- Healthy lifestyle: Avoid alcohol and unnecessary use of anticoagulants, and protect your head during risky activities.
Prevention
- Use appropriate protective gear for sports or hazardous activities.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Consult your doctor before taking anticoagulant medications.
- Maintain a safe home environment to reduce the risk of falls, especially for older individuals.
Conclusion
Subdural hematoma can be a serious condition, but with timely diagnosis and treatment, the chances of recovery improve significantly. If you have questions or concerns about this condition, do not hesitate to consult a specialist.
