Should Seniors on Anticoagulants See a Doctor After a Head Injury?

Elderly individuals who are on long-term anticoagulant therapy may experience a fall and sustain a head injury?

Grandfather has undergone heart valve surgery and has been on anticoagulants for 20 years.
He fell while working in the mountains and hit the back of his head, resulting in a large swelling that has persisted for three days.
Today, the area behind and in front of his left ear has also swollen, and he reports having a headache.
Should he see a doctor? Which specialty would be appropriate? Thank you!

Qing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/02

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

Please schedule an appointment with the neurosurgery department!

Reply Date: 2017/01/02

More Info

When it comes to head injuries, especially in seniors who are on anticoagulants, it is crucial to take any incident seriously. Given your grandfather's history of heart valve surgery and long-term anticoagulant therapy, the risk of complications from a head injury is significantly heightened. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), can increase the risk of bleeding, including intracranial hemorrhage, which can be life-threatening.

In your grandfather's case, he has sustained a fall that resulted in a significant bump on the back of his head, and now there is swelling extending to the left ear area. The presence of pain and swelling three days post-injury is concerning. Symptoms such as persistent headache, confusion, dizziness, or any changes in consciousness should not be ignored. The fact that he is on anticoagulants further complicates the situation, as even minor head trauma can lead to serious bleeding in the brain.

Given these factors, it is highly advisable for your grandfather to seek medical attention immediately. He should be evaluated by a healthcare professional who can assess the extent of his injury and determine if any imaging studies, such as a CT scan, are necessary to rule out intracranial bleeding. In this case, the appropriate department to consult would be the Emergency Department (ED) or a Neurology department, as they specialize in head injuries and neurological assessments.

In the emergency setting, the medical team will likely perform a thorough examination, including checking for neurological deficits, and may order imaging studies to assess for any bleeding or structural damage. If there is any indication of a serious injury, timely intervention is critical to prevent further complications.

In summary, due to your grandfather's anticoagulant use and the nature of his head injury, it is essential to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. The risks associated with head trauma in individuals on anticoagulants cannot be overstated, and prompt medical attention can be life-saving.

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