Definition:
Also known as intracranial hematoma, Epidural hematoma is a serious and possibly life-threatening condition that often requires immediate treatment.
The condition occurs when a blood vessel ruptures within the brain or between the skull and the brain. The brain tissue is then compressed due to the collection of blood.
Diagnosis:
It can be difficult to diagnose a hematoma. Generally, doctors presume that a progressive loss of consciousness after a head injury is caused by a hemorrhage inside the skull. Imaging techniques are the best methods to define the position and size of a hematoma. A computerized tomography or CT scan uses a sophiscticated X-ray machine linked to a computer to produce detailed images of the brain. A magnetic resonance imagine scan or MRI meanwhile uses a large magnet and radio waves to make computerized images.
Treatment:
Epidurial hematoma often requires surgery but the type varies on the characteristics of the hematoma. First option is called perforation, which is performed if the blood is localized and is not clotting excessively. It is done by creating a hole through the skull and removing liquid by suction. Second is craniotomy, where a section of the skull is opened to remove the large hematoma.
Symptoms and Signs:
The symptoms of epidural hematoma may occur immediately or several weeks after a blow to the head. Pressure on the brain increases as time passes, which produces various symptoms including headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, slurred speech or loss of ability to speak, pupils of unequal size, and weakness in limbs on one side of the body.
Once more blood fills the brain of the narrow space between the brain and skull, the affected person may experience lethargy, seizures, and unconsciousness.
Causes:
An injury to the head is often the cause of epidurial hematoma. Head injuries are often caused by an automobile or motorcycle accident, or even simply bumping the head.
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