Subdural hematoma

A pool of blood between the brain and its outermost covering.

Overview

Subdural hematoma is a medical emergency. It's usually caused by a head injury that bursts blood vessels, causing pooled blood to push on the brain. Age, blood-thinning drugs, and alcohol abuse increase risk.

Symptoms

Headache, confusion, vomiting, slurred speech, or coma may appear immediately or weeks after a head injury.

Treatments

Small or symptomless SDHs may only need to be watched over time. Surgery is often needed.