How to Treat a Head Injury to Avoid Bleeding in the Brain

the hour after a head trauma or injury to the skull is a crucial time. When a person hits their head, it may cause a subdural hematoma which is essentially bleeding in the brain. A blood vessel bursts, and fills the brain with blood. The brain begins to swell and presses against the skull. If the individual does not get into immediate surgery to relieve pressure to the brain, they will very likely suffer brain damage. If left long enough, the condition is usually fatal.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. If you suffer a head injury, even if it appears minor, get to a doctor immediately if you see any symptoms such as slurred speech, sleepiness, headache, balance difficulties, confused speech, weakness, or blurred vision. More severe symptoms include nausea and/or vomiting, seizures and loss of consciousness.

2. If a baby suffers a head injury, their symptoms may be less obvious. Look for irritability, sleepiness, cries that are higher in pitch, not eating, larger head, soft spots in the skull begin to bulge, or vomiting. These are all serious symptoms in an infant. Get to a physician immediately if you suspect head injury or trauma.

3. Subdural hematoma, or bleeding on the brain does not have to be life threatening if caught early. Be sure to watch a person who has suffered a head injury closely for 24 hours after the trauma. The first hour is crucial, so be sure to monitor symptoms carefully. It is better safe than sorry. Do not wait if you suspect head injury. It could mean the difference between life and death.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear helmets while playing recreational sports
• Wear a seatbelt
• Not all head injuries are fatal.
• A mild concussion can cause unconsciousness or just a headache. A contusion is a brain bruise.
• Both of these conditions should be monitored by a doctor as well.

[archip99]

on 5/4/2009 I should have read your articles earlier so that I'm more careful. I've 8 stitiches on my head last September. TQ for sharing.

[veryirie]

on 3/30/2009 Important advice on treating a head injury to avoid potentially life threatening bleeding on the brain. Every person should be aware of these signs. Good article!

[Mitestarossa]

on 3/24/2009 Excellent tips.

[jseven]

on 3/20/2009 My son did this a few years ago trying to jump cement curbs with his bike and no helmet! I has to ride in the ambulance with him and prayed the whole time while he kept telling me "I'm going to be okay, mom"..well, they kept him overnight and were amazed that the bleeding around the brain stopped, I was thankful :)... Good tips! 5*