It is important to note that a head injury can include trauma to the skull, scalp and the brain. Every year, millions of individuals suffer from traumatic brain injuries. The biggest concern is a serious head injury that can be initially evident. Take note that traumatic brain injuries usually occur once the brain is jostled inside the skull. This head injury naturally resolves at a quick rate but it is vital to monitor for the danger signs that can indicate a serious head injury, including bleeding within or around the brain as well as brain swelling. If one of the danger signs occurs, it is important to seek immediate medical care.
Seizures
Seizures or convulsions after a head injury clearly indicates a danger sign of a serious brain injury particularly if it occurs in an individual who has not previously experienced seizures. You can first aid measures on how to handle a seizure attack by registering for first aid training today.
Worsening headache
It is important to note that a head injury can occur when there is traumatic impact between the head and another hard object. This will result to a headache which is a normal response of the body to the injury sustained. Nevertheless, a headache that becomes progressively worse can be considered as a danger sign of a serious brain injury.
Nausea and vomiting
Always bear in mind that vomiting typically occurs after the individual sustains a blow to the head. Nevertheless, vomiting with or without nausea that is persistent can be considered as an indication of a serious head injury.
Pupil size that is unequal
Always bear in mind that the eyes can provide an important clue on what is happening within the brain after a head injury. A danger sign of severe damage is the unequal size of the pupils. The pupils are the black-colored center in the eyes. If a pupil is bigger than the other, it is important to seek immediate medical care as soon as possible.
Difficulty awaking and drowsiness
Individuals who sustained a head injury can sleep more than usual. On the other hand, persistent drowsiness is a danger sign of a serious brain injury. If the individual is difficult to awaken after sustaining a blow to the head, it can indicate a serious injury that requires immediate medical care.
Weakness or numbness of the extremities
A serious head injury can lead to abnormalities in the extremities including weakness, numbness or poor coordination. It is important to note that these symptoms often manifest in one extremity or limited to one side of the body. The development of any of these warning signs would require immediate medical care.
Slurred speech and visual problems
Slurred speech is a danger sign after a head injury. As for blurred vision, double vision or other visual problems right after a head injury, they are warning signs of a serious brain injury.
Irritability
Irritability is an essential danger sign of a serious head injury, particularly among young children and infants. A child who sustained head trauma and becomes abnormally irritable must be assessed by a doctor right away.
Changes on the behavior
Restlessness or increasing agitation can indicate a serious head injury. Even personality changes such as hostility, short temper, aggression and combativeness are danger signs. You have to watch out for these behavioral changes.