In a car crash, one of the injuries that you may suffer is a head injury. A head injury may lead to a brain injury, which can have devastating consequences. Head injuries may be minor, like contusions or lacerations, or they can involve the brain, skull fractures or other major concerns.
Head injuries are defined as any injuries to the brain, scalp or head, so there is going to be a wide range of conditions that fall under those terms. Some common head injuries include:
- Concussions
- Hemorrhages
- Hematomas
- Edema
- Diffuse axonal injuries
Each and every injury is different. Patients may have similar injuries but have completely different symptoms. For example, two people with concussions may have concussions in different parts of the brain, so one could have trouble staying awake while the other slurs their words.
What are some signs of head injuries?
Some signs of head injuries include:
- Open wounds
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Bloodshot eyes (this may indicate high blood pressure or an impact to the facial region as well)
- A fractured skull
- Unconsciousness
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting after a blow to the head
Of course, there are many others as well.
What should you do if you hit your head during a car crash?
The best thing to do is to report the injury to the emergency medical team and to go to the hospital right away. Although you may feel alright at present, head injuries can worsen over time, especially if there is swelling or bleeding on the brain. Early treatment can help you have a better chance of recovery.
