While it’s well-known that old age comes with its share of illnesses, most people aren’t aware of subdural hematomas. Subdural hematomas affect seniors the most, specifically those 75 years old and above.
As the general population in the U.S. and the world in general grows older, experts anticipate a massive increase in the number of subdural hematoma cases.
Discover what subdural hematomas are, how to prevent them, and care for elderly patients.
Understanding Subdural Hematomas
The brain is a fascinating organ and the most important part of the human body. Given its importance, it’s protected by the skull and an additional three layers of membrane tissue. These include the dura mater, the outermost layer, and the toughest of the three, pia matter and the arachnoid, which softens any physical trauma directed to the brain.
“subdural hematoma” means bleeding between the dura mater and the arachnoid membrane. Hence the term “subdural” and “hematoma” is the medical term for when there’s an abnormal collection of blood outside blood vessels in a body tissue or organ.
Many factors can contribute to this, namely adverse reactions from some medication and physical trauma to the head, which ruptures or weakens blood vessels in the head. Similarly, as we age, body tissues and muscles shrink, and the brain isn’t an exception. In the brain, this shrinkage tends to weaken blood vessels; over time, they may give way, leading to subdural hematoma.
No one is entirely immune from a subdural hematoma, and it can affect even younger individuals. However, it is more prevalent among older adults, with medical negligence playing a part in nursing homes and homes for the elderly..
Symptoms of Subdural Hematoma in Elderly Patients
If you experience or notice an individual exhibiting any of the following symptoms, it could be a sign that they have subdural hematoma:
- Persistent headaches
- Difficulty with balance
- Vision disruption or changes
- Vomiting
- Memory loss
- Disorientation
- Significant personality changes
This isn’t a conclusive list, and a medical doctor is best placed to advise on whether you or someone you know could be having a subdural hematoma.
In extreme cases, a person with subdural hematoma may experience paralysis, seizures, difficulty breathing, and even loss of consciousness. If you or someone you know experiences these, take them to a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing Subdural Hematoma
Subdural hematoma is primarily diagnosed via physical and neurological exams. In the case of acute subdural hematoma, which is mainly caused by trauma to the head, a medical professional will assess your symptoms and try to establish when and how the trauma happened. This then forms the basis for further diagnosis.
However, with elderly patients who mostly get chronic subdural hematoma, medical professionals prefer a more comprehensive diagnosis. This may include a deeper dive into the patient’s medical history, particularly concerning head trauma in the past, medications they take or may have taken in the recent past, and any underlying health conditions that may contribute to or worsen subdural hematoma.
If a doctor is convinced or suspects a case of subdural hematoma, they may ask for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan to establish where the bleeding has occurred and the extent to which it has progressed. This can sometimes reveal other injuries to the head or neck that may be contributing to the hematoma and of which the patient and doctor were not aware of.
Prevention and Treatment Options for Subdural Hematoma in Elderly Patients
Numerous treatment solutions and modalities exist thanks to today’s advancements in medicine and technology. In non-life-threatening scenarios, a doctor may prescribe rest and regular observation. Similarly, treatment may involve medications to help manage the symptoms, as some subdural hematomas go away without further medical intervention.
However, studies have long touted surgery as a long-term solution, with most patients resuming their everyday lives soon after with little to zero chances of a recurrence. Still, despite this, surgery isn’t the best option, especially for elderly patients who may have other comorbid conditions.
Considering that most elderly patients may not always be good surgical candidates, prevention is the best option. Medication and regular medical observation may help, but they won’t always be the ultimate solution for chronic subdural hematoma.
So, how do you prevent subdural hematoma in elderly patients? Here’s a quick rundown of tips to avoid subdural hematoma in elderly patients:
Ensure Their Environment is Fall-Proof
The leading cause of subdural hematomas is trauma to the head. If you have an elderly person(s) in your home, you can prevent this by removing anything that would trip them. This means loose carpets, rugs, and slippery floors have to go. You can also ensure every part of your home is well-lit to prevent accidental falls.
If a friend or loved one is in a home for the elderly, you can ensure that their immediate environment is fall-proof. Consider moving them to a place that addresses this if where they are doesn’t prioritize making the environment fall-proof.
If a loved one or friend has suffered a head injury leading to a subdural hematoma, Nursing Home Law Center is the best place to find recourse.
Consult A Doctor On Medications
Some medications increase the risk of an individual getting subdural hematoma, specifically anticoagulants and blood thinners. Before an elderly friend or family member uses them, consult a doctor about the possible risks associated with the medication.
Conclusion
Subdural hematoma is a devastating neurological disease that affects everyone, but data suggests the elderly are more likely to suffer from it. Head injuries are the main culprits causing the condition. While there are medical interventions, prevention is always the best option.
