At a glance
What it is
A blood clot (hematoma) that forms between the skull and the outer membrane covering the brain (dura mater), typically following a head injury.
Symptoms
Headache, confusion, loss of consciousness, blurred vision, vomiting, weakness on one side of the body, and slurred speech. Requires immediate medical attention.
Approach
Severity determines treatment. Mild cases are managed conservatively. Severe cases may require surgical drainage (burr hole). Post-acute rehabilitation addresses residual deficits.
What a subdural hematoma is
A subdural hematoma is a type of intracranial hematoma — a collection of blood that forms beneath the skull and beneath the dura mater (the tough membrane surrounding the brain) but outside the brain tissue itself. It typically results from a tear in the veins passing between the brain and the dura, or from a laceration on the brain itself. A skull fracture may or may not be present.
**Symptoms** vary with injury severity. Moderate to severe head injury requires immediate medical attention: - Severe headache - Confusion or disorientation - Loss of consciousness - Blurred vision - Vomiting - Short-term memory loss - Slurred speech, difficulty walking, or dizziness - Weakness or numbness on one side of the body - Seizures or behaviour changes - One pupil appearing larger than the other
**Raised intracranial pressure:** Head injury may cause brain swelling. Because the skull has limited space, swelling raises pressure inside the skull (intracranial pressure, ICP) — which can lead to brain damage. Severe cases require ICP monitoring.
**Surgical option:** When the hematoma is significant and does not resolve, burr hole evacuation (surgical drainage) may be required.
Non-surgical treatment at Alimran Medical Center
Advanced therapies
Physiotherapy & rehabilitation
Book a consultation
The secretary schedules first appointments during clinic hours; please have prior imaging, operative notes and a current medication list available at the time of the call.
This page provides general information about subdural hematoma and is not a substitute for individual medical assessment. If your symptoms are severe or worsening, contact a clinician promptly.