Extradural Hematoma

An epidural hematoma, also called extradural, is a collection of blood between the skull and the outermost layer that covers the brain (the dura mater). It often appears after a significant blow to the head.

When to seek care? It is a situation that requires immediate medical evaluation, especially if, after a head injury, there is a severe headache, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, or loss of consciousness.

Common symptoms: A progressive headache, changes in the level of alertness, and, at times, weakness on one side of the body.

Which specialist treats it? The neurosurgeon is the one who evaluates and follows up on this type of injury using imaging studies. If you suspect a head injury with these signs, going without delay to an emergency department and then having a neurosurgeon's opinion makes the difference.