A subdural hematoma is a buildup of blood between the layers of tissue that cover the brain. The blood collects under the layer closest to the skull. (This layer is called the dura.) The bleeding is most often caused by a head injury, but there can be other causes. In an older adult, even a minor injury can lead to a subdural hematoma.
The buildup of blood inside the skull can put pressure on the brain. This may cause symptoms, such as a severe headache, confusion, or seizures.
There are two kinds of hematomas: acute and chronic.
Doctors use imaging tests to find the buildup of blood. You may have a test such as a CT scan or MRI. The doctor may also do a test to check the pressure inside your skull.
Bleeding inside the skull may get worse over time. So it is very important to pay attention to your symptoms. And be sure to see your doctor for follow-up testing.
In some cases, treatment is needed to stop the bleeding or remove the blood. This helps relieve the pressure on the brain. You may have a procedure or surgery. The surgery may make small holes in the skull or remove part of the skull.
You may not need treatment if you have a small hematoma that is not causing symptoms.
If you take aspirin or some other blood thinner, you may need to stop taking it. The doctor may give you treatment to undo the effects of the blood thinner. This can help prevent more bleeding in the skull.
A subdural hematoma is an increase in pressure within the skull that happens when blood collects in the space between the skull and the brain. The bleeding is usually caused by torn veins in the brain following a head injury.
Symptoms of a subdural hematoma, which can develop rapidly or slowly, include:
If the bleeding is severe, symptoms may develop within minutes or hours. In babies, one or both of the two soft spots on the head (fontanelles) bulge.
If the bleeding is minimal, symptoms may not develop for weeks. Even after the bleeding has stopped and the blood has clotted, fluid from surrounding tissues can be absorbed into the space, slowly increasing the pressure within the skull.
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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