Overview

An intracranial hematoma is a serious medical condition in which blood accumulates inside the skull due to bleeding in or around the brain. This buildup of blood increases pressure on brain tissue and can interfere with normal brain function. Intracranial hematomas often result from head injury but may also occur due to medical conditions affecting blood vessels or clotting. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent permanent brain damage or death.

Symptoms

Symptoms may appear immediately after injury or develop gradually over hours or days and may include:

  • Severe or worsening headache

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Drowsiness or difficulty staying awake

  • Confusion or changes in behavior

  • Weakness or numbness on one side of the body

  • Slurred speech

  • Seizures

  • Loss of consciousness in severe cases

Causes

Intracranial hematomas occur when blood vessels rupture inside the skull. Common causes include:

  • Traumatic head injury from falls, accidents, or sports

  • Ruptured cerebral blood vessels

  • High blood pressure causing vessel damage

  • Blood-thinning medications

  • Bleeding disorders

  • Brain tumors or infections that weaken blood vessels

Risk factors

  • Head trauma, especially in older adults or infants

  • Use of anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications

  • Alcohol abuse

  • Advanced age

  • Bleeding or clotting disorders

  • History of repeated head injuries

Complications

  • Increased intracranial pressure

  • Permanent brain damage

  • Paralysis or neurological deficits

  • Seizure disorders

  • Coma

  • Death if untreated

Prevention

While not all intracranial hematomas can be prevented, certain measures can reduce risk:

  • Wearing helmets during sports and protective gear during activities

  • Using seat belts and child safety restraints

  • Preventing falls, especially in older adults

  • Managing high blood pressure

  • Using blood-thinning medications only as prescribed

  • Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption

Intracranial hematoma is a medical emergency. Immediate medical attention is essential if symptoms occur after a head injury or if neurological changes develop suddenly.

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