Head injuries come in many different forms. They range from minor trauma, where the person may feel dazed, to coma and death. Loss of consciousness implies a temporary alteration in physiological function of the brain. Persistent neurological problems, such as speech difficulties or weakness, suggest an anatomical injury to the underlying brain. These can come in the form of blood clots on the surface of the brain or within the brain. The fibers of the brain can be directly damaged by the trauma. Head injuries can be markedly worsened if someone has coagulation problems or is taking blood thinners. Coma occurs when the central portion of the brain is unable to activate or stimulate the brain to wakefulness. It also occurs when there is very extensive injury to the brain. Injuries can produce fractures of the skull. These can be compound injuries, where the spinal fluid or brain is exposed to the outside world. Depressed skull fractures can cause a piece of bone to penetrate or deform the brain. Basilar skull fractures involve the base of the skull. They can injure the nerves that pass through these regions and produce cerebrospinal fluid leaks.
Causes of Head Injury
Trauma is the major cause of head injury. At times acceleration or deceleration of the head, with no signs of external trauma, can lead to injury to the brain. Coagulation disorders can produce hemorrhages within the skull with limited or no trauma. Hemorrhages in the brain can occur on the outside of the brain, where they push or displace the brain. These include subdural and epidural hemorrhages. Hemorrhages within the brain can occur, producing intracerebral hemorrhages and intraventricular hemorrhages. Compound fractures can lead to infections that produce meningitis or brain abscess.
Signs and Symptoms of Head Injury
The symptoms that occur with head injury depends on the extent of damage and the location of the damage suffered by the brain or skull. Loss of consciousness may occur. Headaches, confusion and difficulty concentrating may occur after a concussion. More extensive injuries in the brain may produce a change in the level of consciousness. There is frequently amnesia, or loss of memory, for the events surrounding the injury. Nausea and vomiting may occur as well as blurred vision and dizziness. Weakness, loss of sensation, speech difficulty, loss of vision may occur. Severe injuries are often associated with prolonged periods of unconsciousness or coma. Abnormal movements of the arms and legs may occur. The pupils may become different sizes. Fractures can lead to deformity of the skull and face. Spinal fluid may drain through a compound fracture of the skull, or through the nose or ear, when the base of the skull is fractured. Injury to the nerves passing through the base of the skull can be injured. This most commonly leads to loss of smell and loss of hearing.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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