Epidural Hematoma Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

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Epidural Hematoma Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Understanding

An epidural hematoma can occur when there is an accumulation of blood between the head bone and the dura mater (the thick layer that covers the brain).

This can generally occur when there is a fracture of the head which causes tearing of the blood vessels underneath. Head fractures can occur when there is a head collision due to a fall, collision, or other types of accident.

Epidural hematomas can cause increased pressure on the brain, which then causes swelling. When swelling occurs, the position of the brain in the head can shift.

Pressure and damage to brain tissue can affect vision, speech, mobility and awareness.

If not treated, epidural hematoma can cause permanent brain damage and death.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms that can be observed in an epidural hematoma can vary, depending on the degree of severity. Signs and symptoms that can appear minutes to hours after a head injury include:

1. Confusion
2. Feeling dizzy
3. Drowsiness or varying degrees of consciousness
4. Severe headache
5. Nauseous
6. Vomiting
7. seizures
8. Pupil enlargement in one eye
9. Loss of sight in one eye
10. Weakness on one side of the body
11. Shortness of breath or other changes in breathing patterns

There may be loss of consciousness for a short time. This may be followed by a period of return to consciousness before being followed by another loss of consciousness. If you don’t get immediate treatment, the individual can also experience a coma.

Reason

Epidural hematomas generally occur as a result of trauma or other injuries to the head. For example, you can hit your head as a result of a fall, a motor vehicle accident, or during contact sports.

Physical abuse is also known to cause head injuries and result in epidural hematomas.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of an epidural hematoma is generally determined from a detailed medical interview, direct physical examination, and certain investigations.

If the doctor suspects an epidural hematoma, several investigations can be carried out to diagnose it.

Supporting examinations that can be carried out include:

1. Computerized tomography (CT) scan, which can show a solid mass pushing brain structures away from the skull.
2. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination, which is also intended to look at the structure of the brain and soft tissue in the head.
3. Electroencephalogram (EEG) to assess the brain’s electrical activity.

Treatment

Treatment of an epidural hematoma depends on several factors, including the degree of severity and the complaints experienced. Several types of treatment that can be done are:

  • Surgery

    In most cases, the doctor can suggest surgery to evacuate the epidural hematoma. A common type of surgery is a craniotomy, in which a surgeon can open a portion of the skull to evacuate the hematoma and relieve pressure on the brain.

    In some other cases, the surgeon may recommend aspiration, in which a small hole is made in the head to aspirate the hematoma. This procedure is generally only effective on very small hematomas and does not put pressure on the brain.

  • Treatment

    Before a craniotomy or aspiration is performed, the doctor may prescribe medication to reduce inflammation and pressure within the skull.

    After evacuation of the hematoma, the doctor may prescribe anti-seizure medication to help prevent seizures. Seizures are a complication of head injuries.

  • Rehabilitative Therapy

    The doctor may also suggest consulting a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or other therapists. This can be useful for managing symptoms and disabilities resulting from injuries, such as weakness, incontinence, difficulty walking, paralysis, and loss of sensation.

Prevention

Accidents are not always preventable, and as a result, head injuries and epidural hematomas can happen to anyone. However, the risk of head injury can be avoided by taking some precautions, for example:

  • Always wear a seat belt when using a motorized vehicle.
  • Always wear an appropriately sized helmet when riding a bicycle or motorcycle, engaging in contact sports, or engaging in work or leisure activities with a high risk of head injury.
  • Make sure the location of the house, field, and workplace is in good condition to prevent things that can cause falls and reduce the risk of falls.

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