How are head injuries treated?
Mild injuries usually don’t require treatment other than resting for a few days, a cold compress, and over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches. The patient should continue to be monitored for symptoms that aren’t getting better, or worsening symptoms.
Moderate to severe head injuries focus on maintaining enough oxygen and blood supply, normal blood pressure, and preventing further head or neck injury. Treatment focuses on minimizing secondary damage due to swelling, inflammation, bleeding or reduced oxygen to the brain.
Treatment is determined by the severity of the injury, patient’s age, overall health, medical history, extent and type of injury, and patient’s tolerance for specific medication or procedures. Treatments may include:
Medications to limit secondary brain damage may include:
- Anti-seizure drugs may be needed for a short while. A moderate to severe injury increases the risk of seizures during the first week after the injury. If seizures occur, the medication will be continued.
- Coma-inducing drugs induce a temporary coma and are used because the brain needs less oxygen when in a coma. Increased pressure in the brain may compress blood vessels so they can’t supply adequate amounts of nutrients and oxygen to the brain.
- Diuretics can reduce the fluid in tissues and will help reduce pressure inside the brain.
Surgery may be needed to reduce additional brain damage and address these problems:
- Remove clotted blood that has collected from bleeding inside or outside the brain. The hematoma can put pressure on the brain and damage brain tissue.
- Repair a skull fracture or remove skull pieces from the brain.
- Stop bleeding in the brain.
- Open a window in the skull to relieve pressure and/or to drain accumulated fluid.
Rehabilitation is usually needed by people who’ve had a significant brain injury. They may need to learn to walk and talk again, and relearn other basic self-care skills. Rehab can be provided in an inpatient rehab unit or through outpatient services. At rehab, the patient’s treatment team may include these rehab specialists:
- Physiatrist, a doctor who specializes in physical medicine and rehab, oversees the rehab process and prescribes medications.
- Occupational therapist helps the patient relearn everyday skills.
- Physical therapist helps with mobility, relearning balance and walking.
- Speech therapist helps improve communication skills.
- Vocational counselor assesses the ability to return to work and provides information to help with workplace challenges.
- Neuropsychologist assesses cognitive impairment, helps the patient manage behaviors, learn coping skills, and provide psychotherapy for emotional issues.
- Social worker/case manager ensures access to services, and acts as liaison between various professionals and family caregivers.
