Subdural and Epidural Hematoma

Has a loved one suffered a subdural or epidural hematoma brain injury? Call our Dallas attorneys today at (214) 651-6100.

It’s estimated that over 5 million Americans are currently living with some form of brain injury, and over a million more will suffer a significant brain injury this year alone.

The word "hematoma" simply refers to a localized collection of blood outside the blood vessels, while subdural/epidural hematomas refer to blood collecting around (and putting pressure on) the brain. Subdural and epidural hematomas can be caused by a number of events such as a sports-related head injury, a car crash, a blow to the head, or even a slip and fall accident. These injuries tend to negatively-affect one’s quality of life, and may lead to temporary or permanent disability.

If your family is facing medical bills and other financial burdens related to a subdural or epidural hematoma, we invite you to call us for a free consultation. Our Dallas brain injury attorneys may be able to help your family recover the compensation needed to pay for medical treatment and rehabilitation, as well as compensation for lost wages, a reduced earning capacity, and other related losses. Each case is unique, but we're happy to review the facts of your case free of charge and advise you of your options moving forward.

Subdural hematoma.

A subdural hematoma is a brain injury which involves blood collecting between the brain and the outermost meningeal part of the brain (called the dura). The dura is a very tough and fibrous membrane which is on the inner surface of one’s skull. In a subdural hematoma, veins and blood vessels which traverse the dura burst or are compromised, leading to the pooling of blood in this area.

This is a condition which needs immediate medical attention due to the potential for brain tissue death, owing to the increased pressure brought on by the pooling blood.

Epidural hematoma.

Epidural hematoma brain injuries (also referred to as extradural hemorrhages) involve blood pooling between the outer membrane (the dura) and the skull. When pressure builds in the intracranial space, delicate brain tissue can be compressed, shifted, and permanently damaged.

Often brought on by a skull fracture, these types of brain injuries are usually considered more-dangerous than subdural hematomas on account of its high fatality rates (as high as 20 percent).

The importance of seeing a doctor IMMEDIATELY.

As a rule of thumb, it is important to see a doctor after a relatively-hard head bump or any kind of blunt force trauma. Since any type of traumatic brain injury can be life-threatening, medical attention is not optional; it's essential. If you notice any of the following symptoms following an injury, seek medical attention immediately.

1. Dizziness
2. Sudden onset of high blood pressure
3. Sudden onset of poor motor skills
4. Personality changes
5. Sudden extreme headaches
6. Loss of consciousness
7. Vision and other sensory disturbances

The earlier you get to a doctor for an MRI scan (and possible surgery to relieve intracranial pressure as well as close up burst blood vessels), the better your prognosis will be. For more information on how we may be able to help your family during this difficult time, call us today at (214) 651-6100.