Subdural Hematoma

A Guide to Understanding and Seeking Legal Action with Baltimore Subdural Hematoma Lawyer Mark Kopec

A subdural hematoma is a serious medical condition that occurs when bleeding occurs between the dura mater (the outermost layer of the brain) and the arachnoid mater (the middle layer). This bleeding can lead to pressure on the brain, which can cause a range of symptoms and also potentially life-threatening complications. If you are injured, then you may have a medical malpractice claim and need Baltimore subdural hematoma lawyer Mark Kopec.

Anatomy of the Brain and Subdural Hematoma Formation

A three-layered membrane called the meninges protects the brain. The outermost layer is the dura mater, which is a tough, fibrous membrane. The middle layer is the arachnoid mater, which is a delicate, web-like membrane. The innermost layer is the pia mater, which is a thin membrane that closely adheres to the surface of the brain.

Subdural hematomas form when blood vessels between the dura mater and arachnoid mater rupture and bleed. This bleeding can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Head trauma: This is the most common cause of subdural hematomas. Even a minor head injury can cause bleeding if it damages blood vessels in the meninges.
• Blood clotting disorders: People with certain blood clotting disorders may be more likely to develop subdural hematomas, even without a head injury.
• Anticoagulant medications: These medications can increase the risk of bleeding and may contribute to the development of subdural hematomas.
• Brain aneurysms: A ruptured brain aneurysm can cause bleeding in the meninges and lead to a subdural hematoma.

Symptoms of Subdural Hematoma

The symptoms of a subdural hematoma can vary depending on the size and location of the bleeding. However, common symptoms may include:

• Headache: This is often the first symptom of a subdural hematoma. The headache may be severe and persistent.
• Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can be caused by pressure on the brain.
• Dizziness or vertigo: These symptoms can also be caused by pressure on the brain.
• Confusion or altered mental status: This can range from mild forgetfulness to severe confusion or coma.
• Seizures: In some cases, a subdural hematoma can cause seizures.
• Weakness or paralysis: If the bleeding is severe, it can cause weakness or paralysis on one side of the body.

Diagnosis of Subdural Hematoma

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a subdural hematoma, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A doctor will conduct a physical exam and may order tests to diagnose the condition. These tests may include:

• CT Scan: This imaging test can help doctors visualize the brain and identify bleeding.
• MRI: This imaging test can provide more detailed images of the brain.
• Blood tests: Blood tests can help rule out other causes of symptoms and assess blood clotting function.

Treatment of Subdural Hematoma

The treatment for a subdural hematoma depends on the severity of the bleeding and the patient’s overall health. In mild cases, the hematoma may resolve on its own with time. However, in more severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary.

• Surgical treatment: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the blood clot and relieve pressure on the brain. This can be done through a craniotomy, which involves drilling a hole in the skull to access the brain.
• Medications: In some cases, medications may be used to control bleeding and also reduce swelling in the brain.

Prognosis of Subdural Hematoma

The prognosis for a subdural hematoma depends on several factors, including the size of the hematoma, the patient’s age and overall health, and the promptness of treatment. In general, the prognosis is better for smaller hematomas that doctors diagnose and treat early. However, even small hematomas can be serious, and it is important to seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing symptoms.

Medical Malpractice Claims with Baltimore Subdural Hematoma Lawyer Mark Kopec

In some cases, a subdural hematoma may be the result of medical malpractice. This can occur if a doctor fails to diagnose or treat the condition properly, leading to serious complications.

Potential medical malpractice claims related to subdural hematoma may include:

• Failure to diagnose: If a doctor fails to recognize the signs and symptoms of a subdural hematoma, then this can lead to delayed treatment and serious complications.
• Misdiagnosis: If a doctor misdiagnoses a subdural hematoma as another condition, this can also lead to delayed treatment.
• Failure to treat: If a doctor fails to provide appropriate treatment for a subdural hematoma, then this can lead to serious complications.
• Surgical error: If a doctor makes mistakes during surgery to treat a subdural hematoma, this can result in complications.

Next Step: Call Baltimore Subdural Hematoma Lawyer Mark Kopec

If you believe that you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice related to a subdural hematoma, then it is important to consult with a medical malpractice attorney. We can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Visit the free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.