A subdural hematoma is one of the most serious — and time-sensitive — forms of traumatic brain injury, capable of developing within minutes of an impact or quietly progressing over weeks. When blood vessels beneath the skull rupture, blood pools between the brain and its protective covering, creating dangerous pressure that can lead to unconsciousness, lasting neurological damage, or death. Recognizing the warning signs early and seeking immediate neurosurgical care can make the difference between a full recovery and a lifetime of complications.
At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, our fellowship-trained, board-certified neurosurgeons have spent nearly two decades diagnosing and treating subdural hematomas and complex traumatic brain injuries throughout New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. Working in close partnership with the region’s top hospitals, our team combines advanced surgical expertise, state-of-the-art imaging, and a calm, patient-centered approach to every case — from emergency craniotomies to minimally invasive drainage procedures. Patients, families, and referring physicians turn to PBSO because our specialists pair the highest level of clinical skill with the compassionate, one-on-one guidance families need during one of the most stressful moments of their lives.
Symptoms of Subdural Hematoma
Symptoms of subdural hematoma vary depending on the amount and location of pooling blood.
Common symptoms include:
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Loss of consciousness
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Confusion
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Seizures
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Slurred speech
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Difficulty walking or staying in balance
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Lack of energy
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Headache
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Nausea & vomiting
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Numbness & weakness
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Vision problems
Infants with subdural hematoma may also show increased irritability, an enlarged head or soft spot, lack of appetite, excessive sleepiness, and persistent vomiting.
Causes of Subdural Hematoma
The most serious type of subdural hematoma typically results from traumatic head injuries caused by a fall, automobile accident, sports injury, or deliberate assault. Injuries like these may be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Minor head injuries that produce no outward signs of trauma can also cause blood vessels to seep, creating intracranial pressure. The resulting subdural hematoma may not become evident until symptoms appear weeks or months after the injury. This condition is referred to as chronic subdural hematoma, and it is more common in older adults, whose intracranial blood vessels are already stretched and more easily broken.
Subdural hematomas can also occur spontaneously, without evidence of injury.
The risk of developing a subdural hematoma increases with factors like these:
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Long-term alcohol use
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Use of blood thinners
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Blood clotting disorders
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Repeated head injury from falls or abuse
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Very young or very old age
Treatment for Subdural Hematoma
A CT scan or MRI provides physicians with a detailed image of the brain, skull, blood vessels, and any blood pooling. A blood test and physical examination can also offer evidence of internal bleeding.
Acute subdural hematoma is a medical emergency requiring surgery to relieve brain pressure, performed by an experienced neurosurgeon.
For chronic subdural hematomas and very small acute subdural hematomas, surgeons may drill small holes in the skull to drain the blood. Physicians may also prescribe diuretics, anti-seizure medications, and corticosteroids. After surgery, physical therapy is sometimes needed to restore functioning to the pre-injury level.
Why Choose Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics
For nearly 20 years, Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics has been a trusted regional leader in advanced neurosurgical and traumatic brain injury care, treating thousands of patients across New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons hold staff privileges at the region’s top hospitals, contribute to national education in neurosurgical technique, and deliver the kind of relationship-driven, one-on-one medicine that has become rare in modern healthcare. From your first imaging study through surgery and rehabilitation, you’ll be guided by a team recognized for clinical excellence, clear communication, and an unwavering commitment to restoring your quality of life — combining world-class specialty care with a warm, human approach that puts you and your family first.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a subdural hematoma or recovering from a recent head injury, don’t wait — early intervention can save lives and protect long-term brain function. Call Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics at (888) 741-7272 or contact PBSO online to schedule a consultation with one of our expert neurosurgeons at a convenient NJ or PA location.
