What to do if head trauma causes brain hemorrhage

Generally, the treatment methods for cerebral hemorrhage caused by head trauma mainly include emergency life support, drug therapy, surgical intervention, rehabilitation therapy, and close monitoring of the patient's condition. Specific details are as follows:

1. Emergency Life Support

Immediately after head trauma, it is essential to assess the patient’s consciousness, breathing, and heartbeat, ensuring an open airway. If respiratory or cardiac arrest occurs, initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. If the patient experiences vomiting, turn their head to one side to prevent aspiration and airway obstruction. Administer oxygen promptly to maintain stable blood oxygen saturation, providing sufficient oxygen to the brain and preventing further brain damage due to ischemia or hypoxia.

2. Drug Therapy

Medication should be precisely administered based on the patient’s condition. For elevated intracranial pressure, mannitol injection or glycerol fructose injection may be used under medical guidance to reduce pressure. In cases with bleeding risk, tranexamic acid injection can be used to control hemorrhage. For severe headache, acetaminophen tablets may be appropriately used to relieve symptoms. All medications must be strictly taken as prescribed by a physician.

3. Surgical Treatment

Surgery is required when there is a large volume of intracerebral hemorrhage causing significant compression of brain tissue and a rapid rise in intracranial pressure, or when there is a risk of brain herniation. Common surgical procedures include craniotomy for hematoma evacuation and minimally invasive surgery for hematoma drainage. These procedures aim to remove the hematoma, relieve pressure on brain tissue, create favorable conditions for neurological recovery, and reduce disability and mortality rates.

4. Rehabilitation Therapy

Rehabilitation should begin as early as possible once the patient’s condition stabilizes. For patients with motor dysfunction, physical therapy such as range-of-motion exercises and muscle strength training should be implemented. Those with speech impairments should undergo speech rehabilitation to improve communication abilities. Additional therapies such as acupuncture and physical therapy may also be used to promote neurological recovery and enhance the patient’s quality of life.

5. Close Monitoring of Condition

Vital signs including level of consciousness, pupil changes, blood pressure, and heart rate must be continuously monitored during treatment. Regular follow-up imaging with head CT or MRI scans allows dynamic assessment of hematoma absorption and brain tissue recovery. Prompt identification of clinical changes—such as worsening confusion or unequal pupil size—is critical for timely adjustment of treatment strategies.

During treatment, patients must remain on absolute bed rest, avoiding emotional excitement and strenuous activity. The ward should be kept quiet and comfortable. Diet should consist of light, easily digestible, nutrient-rich foods, with increased intake of high-quality protein and vitamins to support recovery. Family members should assist with nursing care, including helping the patient change positions and performing massages to prevent pressure ulcers and venous thrombosis. Any abnormalities such as worsening headache or frequent vomiting should be reported to medical staff immediately.

In daily life, hand hygiene should be maintained. Wounds should be kept dry and protected from friction; waterproof gloves are recommended when doing household chores. A diet rich in vitamin C and protein—such as oranges and eggs—can aid skin repair. If symptoms such as enlarging blisters, redness and swelling of the wound with discharge, or fever occur, prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent infection from spreading.