Taking a blow to the head will result in some nasty repercussions no matter what the source is or how it happened. However, a fractured skull comes along with health issues that set it apart from other impact injuries like concussions.
The most important thing when dealing with a skull fracture is getting quick treatment, which means you must have the ability to identify potential signs of a fracture in others.
Neurological symptoms
According to Merck Manual, skull fractures may manifest in several ways, and often stand apart from other forms of head injury because of the swiftness with which symptoms will show. Many symptoms are neurological in nature and include issues like:
- Partial or full paralysis of the limbs
- Full body paralysis
- Repeated and frequent vomiting
- Seizures
- Migraines or other severe head pains
Confusion also serves as a common symptom and often manifests in the victim having trouble identifying their surroundings or even the people they are with. They may also experience similar symptoms to concussion victims, such as aggressive or agitated behavior and dizziness.
The brain and the skull
The brain can also swell after a concussive wound, which can create multiple problems for fracture victims. First, the soft brain tissue might come into contact with hard or sharp bone shards or edges, which can cut or embed themselves into the brain, causing further damage. The brain may also press against the skull’s interior, cutting off blood flow and oxygen and resulting in cell death.
If you notice these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical aid for the victim in question. Quick-acting is the best way to prevent possible long-term damage from occurring.
