Head Injuries

Head injuries are common and can range from a mild bump to a serious traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even a minor injury can cause lasting problems, so it’s important to take every head injury seriously and get medical attention when needed. 

Banner Health provides advanced care for concussions, skull fractures and other traumatic brain injuries. Whether your injury is new or you’re still having symptoms from a past injury, we’re here to help you recover and protect your long-term brain health. 

What is a head injury? 

A head injury is any harm to the scalp, skull or brain. Injuries may be: 

• Closed (no break in the skull) 
• Open or penetrating (skull is broken or pierced) 

A head injury may temporarily affect brain function or lead to a TBI if it impacts memory, thinking, behavior or movement. 

Learn more about traumatic brain injury (TBI). 

Common causes of head injuries 

Head injuries often occur due to: 

• Falls 
• Motor vehicle accidents 
• Sports or recreational injuries 
• Workplace injuries 
• Physical assault or violence 
• Strong shaking forces 

Types of head injuries 

• Concussion
  A mild TBI caused by a bump or jolt to the head that disrupts normal brain function. 
• Skull fracture
  A break in the skull bone that may or may not damage the brain. 
• Contusion (brain bruise)
  Injury to brain tissue that can lead to swelling and bleeding. 
• Hematoma (epidural or subdural)
  A buildup of blood inside the skull that puts pressure on the brain. 
• Hemorrhage
  Uncontrolled bleeding in or around the brain. 
• Diffuse axonal injury
  Widespread damage to brain cells caused by strong rotational forces. 

Signs and symptoms 

Symptoms may appear right away or develop over hours or days. 

Mild symptoms 

• Headache 
• Dizziness or balance issues 
• Nausea 
• Fatigue 
• Sensitivity to light or noise 
• Foggy thinking 

Moderate to severe symptoms 

• Repeated vomiting 
• Worsening headache 
• Seizures 
• Difficulty speaking or walking 
• Weakness or numbness 
• Vision changes 
• Clear fluid from the nose or ears 
• Behavior or personality changes 
• Loss of consciousness 

Call 911 or go to the ER immediately if symptoms are severe, worsening or involve loss of consciousness. 

How are head injuries diagnosed? 

Diagnosis starts with a medical exam and neurologic assessment. Providers may use: 

• Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) to assess alertness and TBI severity 
• CT scan to check for bleeding, swelling or fractures 
• MRI for detailed images of brain injury 
• Cognitive and balance testing for concussion evaluation 

How are head injuries treated? 

Treatment depends on the injury and symptoms. 

Rest and monitoring for mild injuries 

Medications, such as:

• Pain relievers (acetaminophen) 
• Anti-nausea medications 
• Anti-seizure medications when needed 

NSAIDs may be avoided initially if bleeding is a concern. 

Surgery may be needed to: 

• Remove a hematoma or relieve pressure 
• Repair skull fractures 

Rehabilitation to support long-term recovery: 

• Physical therapy 
• Speech and cognitive therapy 
• Occupational therapy 
• Behavioral health support 

Banner Health offers coordinated rehab services to help restore independence and cognitive function. 

Recovering from a head injury 

Your provider may recommend: 

• Avoiding contact sports until cleared 
• Limiting screen time and bright lights 
• Gradual return to work or school 
• Tracking symptoms closely 
• Follow-up visits to ensure proper healing 

If symptoms last more than 2 - 4 weeks, a specialized concussion program may help. 

How to prevent head injuries

• Wear helmets for biking, skating and contact sports 
• Prevent falls at home 
• Always use seat belts 
• Follow workplace safety practices 
• Avoid alcohol or drugs in risky situations 

Expert neurologic care for head injuries 

At Banner Health, our neurologists, neurosurgeons and rehabilitation specialists work together to help you heal and protect your long-term brain health. 

If you are experiencing symptoms after a head injury, even months later, we are here to help. 

Request an appointment or find a Banner Health specialist today.