Delayed Brain Hemorrhage After Car Accidents: A Patient's Guide

Q: Delayed Brain Hemorrhage After Car Accidents: A Patient's Guide

Hello： Generally, delayed intracerebral hemorrhage is most likely to occur within one week of an acute bleed, while chronic bleeding may occur within three months. <br>The likelihood of occurrence is significantly lower after six years. <br>However, if there has been a history of

Concussion or delayed intracranial hemorrhage from a car accident?

Hello Dr.
Zhao! My mother was involved in a car accident six years ago, where her left posterior brain impacted the left side window.
The force was significant, but the airbags did not deploy.
At that time, we applied ice to her injury and were quite concerned about her condition, but she chose to rest instead of going to the hospital.
For a few days, her appearance seemed slightly swollen, but her hair covered it, so I can't recall if there was any redness, and there were no visible external injuries.

Over the years, my mother has occasionally experienced sharp headaches, roughly every three to four months, where she would mention discomfort.
However, this year, possibly due to the cold winter, she has been experiencing these sharp pains more frequently, often pressing on her temples or the area where she initially hit her head.
Occasionally, she takes pain relievers for relief.
I recently read about delayed intracranial hemorrhage in the news, but since it has been six years, she is hesitant to go to the hospital.
I would like to ask what steps we should take.
Thank you, doctor.

Lai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/06

Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery

Hello: Generally, delayed intracerebral hemorrhage is most likely to occur within one week of an acute bleed, while chronic bleeding may occur within three months.
The likelihood of occurrence is significantly lower after six years.
However, if there has been a history of trauma, headaches may persist.
If possible, you may follow up with Changhua Hospital under the Ministry of Health and Welfare for further care.

Reply Date: 2023/03/06

More Info

Understanding delayed brain hemorrhage after a car accident is crucial for anyone who has experienced a head injury, especially in the context of your mother's situation. Delayed brain hemorrhage, also known as chronic subdural hematoma or delayed intracranial hemorrhage, can occur after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and may not present symptoms until weeks, months, or even years later.
In your mother's case, the car accident occurred six years ago, and while she did not seek immediate medical attention, her symptoms of intermittent headaches and discomfort in the area of the injury are concerning. It is important to note that while the risk of delayed hemorrhage decreases significantly over time, it is not entirely eliminated. The brain can be affected by various factors, including the nature of the injury, the individual's health, and any underlying conditions that may predispose them to complications.

The initial impact from the car accident, even if it did not result in visible external injuries, could have caused internal damage. The brain is a delicate organ, and trauma can lead to bleeding or swelling that may not be immediately apparent. The headaches your mother is experiencing could be a result of several factors, including post-traumatic headaches, which are common after head injuries, or they could indicate a more serious issue such as a delayed hemorrhage.

Given that your mother has been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of headaches, it is advisable to encourage her to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare professional can perform imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to assess for any abnormalities in the brain that may have developed since the accident. These tests can help rule out or confirm the presence of any delayed hemorrhage or other complications.

In addition to the potential for delayed hemorrhage, it is also important to consider other causes of her headaches. Tension-type headaches, migraines, or even secondary headaches due to other medical conditions could be contributing to her symptoms. A thorough evaluation by a neurologist may provide insights into the underlying cause of her headaches and guide appropriate treatment options.

If your mother is hesitant to seek medical care, it may help to discuss the potential risks of not getting evaluated, especially given her history of head trauma. Emphasizing the importance of her health and well-being can motivate her to take action.
In summary, while the likelihood of delayed brain hemorrhage decreases significantly after six years, it is not impossible, especially in the context of her ongoing symptoms. Encouraging her to seek medical attention is crucial for her health. A healthcare provider can offer a comprehensive assessment and determine the best course of action to address her symptoms and ensure her safety.

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