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Bleeding around the brain after a head injury (subdural or epidural hematoma)

Also called: Subdural hematoma, epidural hematoma, bleeding around the brain

Bleeding between the skull and brain after a head injury, which can cause worsening headache, confusion, and sleepiness hours or days later.

WatchOlder adults on blood thinners

Overview

Blood collects between the brain and skull.

It can happen days to weeks after a fall.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Worsening headache after a head injury
  • Confusion or sleepiness
  • Weakness on one side
  • Recent head injury

Less common

  • Vomiting

Look up a symptom: New confusion or not acting like themselves

When to get medical care

Call 911Call 911 now for: worsening headache after a head injury, confusion or sleepiness, weakness on one side.
Get care todayMilder symptoms that could be early signs.
See a doctor soonQuestions about lowering your risk.

Causes

Head injury.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Older adults
  • Blood thinners
  • Alcohol use

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • CT:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

  • Call 911
  • Watch for new confusion

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • Fall prevention

Which doctor treats this

  • Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
  • They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor) or a neurosurgeon.

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Never return to sports the same day as a head injury.
  • Go back to school first, with breaks and a lighter workload if needed.
  • Return to sports step by step only after a doctor clears you and symptoms are gone.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Older adults on blood thinners: Highest risk.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the cause; early care helps.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What follow-up care do I need?
  • How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bleeding around the brain after a head injury (subdural or epidural hematoma)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.