Subdural Hematomae

Collection of blood on the surface of the brain is termed as subdural hematoma. This condition occurs from the tear of the vein that crosses the subdural space. The general cause for subdural hematoma is severe head injury and is also referred to as acute subdural hematoma in severe conditions. It is considered the most dangerous among all head injuries. The bleeding is quick and severe and fills up the entire area of the brain within seconds thus leaving barely any space for the brain. Subdural hematoma occurs even in minor head injuries and is more prominent in elders and is termed as chronic subdural hematoma. The small veins flanked by the surface of the brain and the outward covering stretch and tear and as a result blood gets collected. This condition at times may be overlooked. There are few types of subdural hematoma that occur without any reason.

• Any recent head injury and getting unconscious after a head injury.
  
• Acute headache
  
• Distorted speech and at times loss of speech and loss of memory in few patients.
  
• Nausea and vomiting and seizures
  
• Weakness and lack of sensation accompanied by lethargy.
  
• In infants, the fontanels will bulge out and there will be an increase in the circumference of the head accompanied by high-pitched crying.

With the help of a CT scan or a MRI scan, the doctor will be able to confirm the extent of the damage. This is an emergency situation and needs immediate monitoring and surgery. This surgery will help reduce the pressure exerted on the brain by the bleeding. Doctors generally drill a hole in the brain and allow the hematoma to drain. Depending on the size of the hematoma, doctors decide on the type of surgery required.

• Wear protective gear for the head while working in high raised structures.
  
• Wear helmet when traveling on two wheelers.
  
• Wear your seat belt while driving; this will help reduce the impact of any head injury during accidents.