Subdural Hematoma:A subdural hematoma occurs when there is bleeding between the covering of the brain and the brain itself, known as the subdural space. If this bleeding leads to increased pressure on the brain, it can cause symptoms such as slurred speech, difficulty with coordination, and dizziness, which can escalate to coma and, in severe cases, death. Such hematomas can result from minor head injuries, significant trauma, or the spontaneous rupture of a blood vessel in the brain. Acute subdural hematomas typically stem from serious head injuries, while chronic ones develop slowly and may remain unnoticed for weeks. When symptoms do appear, they often include persistent headaches, varying levels of drowsiness or confusion, and slight weakness on one side of the body. These hematomas are more frequently seen in individuals with a history of alcohol abuse and those over the age of 50. In infants, a subdural hematoma may cause the soft spot on the head to bulge and the head circumference to increase. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through MRI or CT scans, and treatment involves trepanation, which is the process of drilling into the skull to release the accumulated blood.
