When you are involved in an accident, there are many different types of injuries you may suffer, some of which might not be immediately obvious. A skull fracture, for instance, is a serious injury that occurs when the bone in the skull is broken due to a significant impact or trauma.
Skull fractures are serious head injuries that require prompt attention to prevent complications and further harm. They may be classified according to severity and the extent of damage caused, ranging from simple fractures with minimal bone displacement to more complex fractures that involve damage to surrounding tissues or the brain.
Signs that you may have suffered a skull fracture
When you have suffered a skull fracture, some of the symptoms you may experience include:
- Pain or headache at the point of impact, along with swelling or a bump
- Bruising behind the ears, under the eyes or around the injury site
- Feeling drowsy, confused or irritable, with possible loss of speech or slurred speech
- Loss of balance, coordination or impaired vision, along with changes in the pupils
- Nausea, vomiting or a stiff neck
- Convulsions, seizures or becoming unconscious
- Bleeding or fluid leaking from the ears, nose or eyes
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Numbness or paralysis, including facial weakness
- Ringing in the ears, difficulty hearing or a slow pulse
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
If you notice any of these symptoms after an accident, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Doctors conduct a physical examination and utilize the Glasgow Coma Scale to evaluate your level of consciousness and neurological function. They may also order imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans or MRIs to determine the severity of the fracture and assess any damage to surrounding tissues or the brain.
Skull fractures can have long-term complications, and if you suffered one as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may consider seeking legal guidance to know your rights and legal options for pursuing compensation.