Why Seeking Medical Help After Head Trauma is Crucial

Immediate Medical Concerns After Head Injury

It is essential to seek medical help if someone has fallen and hit their head. The primary concern is the possibility of a brain bleed resulting from the trauma. Medical professionals will assess various indicators, such as:

• Pupil reactions
• Pulse
• Blood pressure

These initial tests help determine if there is an intracranial bleed. Even if these tests are normal, it's still crucial to monitor for post-concussive symptoms that may appear a few days later.

Post-Concussive Symptoms and Follow-Up

Some symptoms, such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and general disorientation, may not be immediately apparent on CT or MRI scans. If these symptoms develop, it is important to return to the doctor for further evaluation. The brain bruising may take time to manifest and affect the patient’s condition.

Types of Brain Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Approximately 75% of brain injuries are traumatic. This includes injuries caused by direct impact or violent shaking of the brain. Immediate medical evaluation focuses on identifying potential bleeding or damage.

Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

The remaining 25% of brain injuries are non-traumatic and include:

• Stroke: Caused by a clot blocking blood flow or a burst blood vessel.
• Infections: Such as encephalitis, where the brain becomes inflamed due to infections like the herpes simplex virus.
• Oxygen deprivation: Results from conditions like drowning or heart attacks if resuscitation is delayed.
• Tumours: Brain tumours may present with neurological symptoms, requiring imaging for diagnosis.

Diagnosing Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

Diagnosis of non-traumatic brain injuries can vary:

• Heart Attack: Often straightforward, as it is usually evident if resuscitation is required.
• Encephalitis: Requires thorough investigation of symptoms, with a final diagnosis made after ruling out other conditions.
• Tumours: Typically identified through scans after presenting with neurological symptoms.

Understanding and recognising these symptoms and types of brain injuries is crucial for effective treatment and management. Always seek medical advice if you experience or witness any head trauma.