5 Ways to Treat an Acute Subdural Hematoma

1. A Life-Threatening Event

A subdural hematoma is the result of bleeding between the brain's surface and its outermost covering, classified as acute, subacute or chronic and is usually the result of a serious blow to the head. However, it can occur with a minor head injury, especially in the very young and in the elderly. An acute subdural hematoma is a life-threatening event and more likely to cause permanent damage to the brain because the bleeding occurs rapidly, causing sudden and intense pressure on the brain. Symptoms of the subacute type occur over several hours, and the less severe, chronic subdural hematoma may go undetected for days, weeks or months before it produces symptoms. All three types are capable of producing brain injury and require immediate medical attention as soon as symptoms are apparent.

2. Be Aware of the Symptoms

People are at risk for an acute subdural hematoma if they've experienced a head injury, if they are very young or elderly, or if they are taking blood thinners. Some of the symptoms to look for after a head injury are nausea, vomiting, seizures, headache, loss of consciousness, or stroke-like symptoms such as slurred speech, weakness or inability to speak. In an infant, look for signs such as bulging fontanelles or an increasing head circumference, extreme irritability, a high-pitched cry or seizures. Although symptoms may not be apparent at the time of the injury, it's important that someone monitor the injured person closely for any mental or physical changes, no matter how subtle. If you are the one with the head injury, you should advise your family and friends of your injury so they can recognize the warning signs should they occur and get medical care for you.

3. Reduce the Swelling

The use of computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging helps the physician determine the size and location of the hematoma. The goal of treatment is to remove the pressure from the brain as quickly as possible before damage occurs. Treatment depends on the size, location and symptoms. A small, asymptomatic hematoma may not require surgery. Medications are such as corticosteroids and diuretics are useful when trying to control the swelling of the brain. For a localized hematoma with very little clotting, the surgeon may choose to create a hole in the skull and suction the blood out. However, if the hematoma is large, a craniotomy may be required to remove a section of the skull and access the clotted blood.

4. Take Time to Recover

Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury. Although many people recover without any residual effects, some may be required to take anticonvulsant medication to prevent seizures, which can begin several years after the original trauma. Short-term memory problems, anxiety, headaches or amnesia may also occur for a time. Recovery usually takes place within the first 6 months after the initial injury in an adult, while a child's recovery time is usually quicker.

5. No Hematoma is a Good Hematoma

The best way to treat a subdural hematoma is to avoid having one. Always wear a helmet when playing sports, bicycling, horseback riding or any other activity that could result in a head injury. Remember to use your seat belt, which reduces the chances of receiving a head injury in an automobile accident, and always buckle your children in with age and weight appropriate car seats and belts.