Epidural Hemorrhage

An epidural hemorrhage is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI). It is caused by bleeding between the skull and the outer membrane that covers the brain (dura mater). As the amount of bleeding increases, the blood pushes down on the brain. The amount of bleeding may increase pressure on the brain, possibly causing that part of the brain to stop working and may eventually cause death. An epidural hemorrhage is a medical emergency.

CAUSES
An epidural hemorrhage is caused by bleeding from a ruptured blood vessel. The bleeding usually results from trauma to the head. Head trauma can occur with:
• Traffic accidents.
• Falls.
• Assaults.
• Sport injuries.
Less often, an epidural hemorrhage can occur without a head …show more content…
• Surgery to stop bleeding, remove the blood, or reduce pressure.
Further treatment depends on the duration, severity, and cause of your symptoms. Measures may be taken to prevent short-term and long-term complications.

HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS:
• Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
• Follow physical activity guidelines as directed by your health care team.
• Rest if directed by your health care provider.
• Manage any other health conditions.
• Maintain a safe home environment to reduce the risk of falls.
• Follow all instructions for follow-up with your health care provider. This is very important. This includes any referrals, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and laboratory tests.
• If you play a contact sport and you experience a significant head injury, follow your health care provider's advice as to when or if you can return to the sport.

SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:
• You fall or experience minor trauma to your head and you are taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder. If you are on any blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder even a very small injury can cause an epidural hemorrhage. You should not hesitate to seek medical care regardless of whether you think your symptoms are