Signs And Symptoms Of An Epidural Hematoma

An epidural hematoma is most commonly caused by a head injury occurring due to a vehicle or bicycle accident, although falls, sports-related injuries, and assaults can also contribute. An epidural hematoma is typically more common in children and teenagers, but for older adults, even a mild head injury can lead to this condition, especially if they’re taking prescription anticoagulants or antiplatelet medication.

There are three different categories of hematoma: epidural, subdural, and intraparenchymal. Also referred to as an extradural hematoma, an epidural hematoma happens when blood begins to pool between the skull and the brain’s outermost covering. In addition to head injuries, an epidural hematoma can be caused by the rupture of an aneurysm, high blood pressure, and certain diseases that can allow spontaneous blood pooling in the brain.

The symptoms of an epidural hematoma can present themselves immediately or even over the course of several hours. The following discusses five of the most common signs and symptoms of an epidural hematoma.

Nausea And Vomiting

There are many different causes of nausea including motion sickness, food poisoning, pregnancy, indigestion, emotional stress, and viral infections. If you feel nauseous or start to vomit following a head injury, though, the issue could be serious. Many individuals experience symptoms such as nausea, disorientation, or confusion after a head injury. While the uneasy sensation of nausea doesn’t always lead to vomiting, nausea can be caused by issues in the brain or spinal fluid. As a result, nausea associated with a head injury shouldn’t be taken lightly, especially if the problem does not go away after a few days.

Most head injuries are mild and are not associated with long-term complications. Some individuals who have a head injury experience at least one episode of vomiting. Vomiting can be a one-time occurrence caused by something that doesn’t settle inside the stomach, but a major underlying issue may trigger recurring episodes of vomiting. For this reason, if you develop persistent nausea and vomiting after a head injury, it could be an indication of a concussion or epidural hematoma.

Continue reading for information on the next symptom.