“In a scenario like this, 911 should be called immediately.”ĭr. “Patients should be monitored at home for new or worsening symptoms such as a severe headache, confusion or vomiting,” states Dr. not just a light tap) or if concerning symptoms develop (dizziness, blurry vision, behavior changes, etc.), then 911 should be called. Getty Images When to Call 911 – Especially Among Elderly AdultsĪs a reassuring reminder, most falls and head injuries are benign and do NOT result in serious or long-term consequences. Staying active can reduce the risk of falls by strengthening muscle and improving balance. “You may seemingly feel fine but then later as the hemorrhage outside the brain gradually worsens and increases pressure on the brain, it causes more and more symptoms and could eventually lead to death if not recognized and treated in time.”

“Epidural hematomas are notorious for causing a lucid interval,” describes Christa Swisher, MD, a neurocritical care physician at Atrium Health. A subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), also found on Saget’s autopsy, occurs when blood enters the subarachnoid space and is mostly mild severe SAH can lead to hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the ventricles or cavities deep within the brain. A hematoma is a blood clot anywhere within the brain an epidural hematoma (which claimed the life of actress Natasha Richardson) develops between the dura mater and the inside of the skull versus a subdural hematoma (experienced by Saget) which collects between the dura mater and the arachnoid layer.Ī contusion is bruising of brain tissue consisting of injured or swollen brain mixed with blood leaked from arteries, veins or capillaries. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) describes multiple injuries caused by TBIs including “mass lesions” which can increase pressure within the brain. Symptoms vary widely and depend on the severity of the head injury, ranging from headache, confusion, vomiting and mood changes to slurred speech, paralysis, coma and loss of bowel or bladder control.

The lifetime economic cost of TBI (including medical costs) was about $76.5 billion in 2010. Moderate and severe TBI can lead to life-long health problems (for those who survive) and result in a substantial societal and economic toll. Mild TBI or concussions are typically not life-threatening but can still be serious. “Falls remain the leading cause of TBI, followed by motor vehicle accidents,” explains Isaac Karikari, MD, associate professor of neurosurgery at Duke University Hospital. “Patients who are 65 years and older suffer the highest mortality when they develop TBI.” CT scan of the head displaying a subdural hematoma.

Signs of head trauma