Intracranial Injuries

The most common intracranial injuries include:

• Concussion – This mild traumatic brain injury (MBI) is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body, which in turn causes a metabolic disturbance that interferes with normal brain functioning. This multisystem injury can affect the brain, cervical spine, vestibular, ocular, motor and autonomic nervous systems. Concussion is the most common type of intracranial injury.
• Brain contusion – This is a bruising of brain tissue in or around the brain that occurs due to physical trauma to the head.
• Brain hematoma – This is a blood clot in or around the brain that occurs due to physical trauma to the head.
• Skull fracture – This is a break in the skull bone that occurs due to physical trauma to the head.

An intracranial injury may include one or more physical, cognitive, emotional or sleep-related symptoms.

Physical

• Headache
• Nausea/vomiting
• Dizziness/Confusion
• Balance problems
• Visual problems
• Fatigue
• Sensitivity to light or noise

Cognitive

• Feeling “foggy”
• Feeling “slowed down”
• Difficulty remembering
• Difficulty concentrating

Emotional

• Irritability
• Sadness
• Nervousness

• Drowsiness
• Sleeping less
• Sleeping more

Your health care provider may use a combination of diagnostic tests to confirm a head injury diagnosis, such as:

• Blood test – A lab technician tests a sample of your blood to check for certain proteins and enzymes that are present in the blood after an injury.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan – This imaging exam uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional pictures inside the head and brain.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) – Electrodes attached to the scalp record your brain’s electrical activity for your physician to review.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – This imaging exam uses magnets and radio waves to provide cross-sectional images of the head and brain.
• Neurological evaluation – Your doctor assesses your mental status, reflexes, motor and sensory function, and consciousness.
• X-ray – A technician uses electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of your brain.

Your doctor creates a personalized treatment plan depending on the type and severity of your head injury.

Concussion

Every concussion recovery plan involves mental and physical rest, ongoing medical observation and a gradual return to activity. Your brain needs time to heal, and most symptoms resolve within 14 to 21 days.

There is no cure for a concussion, but you can take medications to help with symptoms such as headache or nausea.

Brain Contusion or Hematoma

Treatment for a brain bruise or bleed includes close monitoring and medication to reduce swelling. In more severe cases, a surgical procedure may be conducted to stop the bleeding or relieve pressure.

Skull Fracture

A broken bone in the skull requires ongoing medical observation, plenty of rest and pain relief medication during the healing process. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair the skull.

Whether you need a precise diagnosis or a second opinion, we can help. Our specialists can pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and design a personalized treatment plan to restore your quality of life.