Acute subdural hematoma
An acute subdural hematoma is a blood clot which develops between the brain and the dura matter (the brains outer covering). This is caused by a head injury which tears the veins on the brains surface.
Symptoms of an Acute Subdural Hematoma
- Increasingly severe headache.
- Dilated pupil on the injured side.
- Slow pulse.
- High blood pressure.
- Vomiting.
- Unconsciousness.
Causes
The cause of an acute subdural hematoma is an impact to the head. This may be from a fall, road traffic accident or sporting injury, such as being hit by a hard ball.
ASH's are amongst the most dangeroud of all head injuries. They account for 10-20% of all traumatic brain injuries and around 30% of all fatal head injuries.
Treatment
- Seek medical attentioan immediately.
- Once at hospital, a CT scan may be undertaken to determine the cause and extent of injury.
- Surgery is usually required to remove the blood clot and stop the bleeding.
- Small hematoma's may not require surgery.
- Following surgery, close observation is required.
- A significant number of deaths from ASH's occur in the days after surgery due to pressure on the brain or underlying brain injury.
