What Are the Symptoms of a Blood Clot in the Head or Temple?

Anywhere where there are veins and arteries, internal blood clots form. This includes the head and temple. More often than not, though, the blood clot will have formed somewhere else and will have traveled to the head. A blood clot in the brain can lead to stroke or death.

Definition

• Blood clotting is a process in which platelets and red blood cells along with fibrin, a type of protein, form a clump to stop bleeding after a blood vessel has been injured. Scabbing occurs when this process happens at the surface of the skin. Internal clotting, which takes place inside a blood vessel, can be dangerous. Although most clots will be dissolved by the body naturally, one that continues to form inside a vein or artery can get to to point that it blocks blood flow. A blood clot that forms in the brain is called a cerebral venous thrombosis.

Transit

• Blood clots can break off from where they form and travel to other parts of the body, such as the heart, brain or lungs.

Causes

• A blood clot in the brain can be formed by a head injury, when blood builds up between the skull and the brain. When this blood clots, it puts pressure on the brain. These are called epidural and subdural hematomas, and they can lead to death.

Symptoms

• A severe headache can be a sign of a blood clot in the brain. Confusion, slow-thinking, personality changes, mild paralysis and seizures also are signs. Brief episodes of extensive paralysis or speaking difficulties may occur.

Treatment and Prevention

• Blood thinner can be taken to prevent blood clots from forming. Aspirin is an over-the-counter blood thinner. Blood clots in the brain are confirmed by either an MRI or a CT scan. Once a blood clot is confirmed by a doctor, a heparin shot often is administered. Another prescription drug to eliminate blood clots goes by the name warfarin, and is taken orally. Always consult your doctor before beginning any drug regimen. When there is a buildup of blood inside the skull, surgery may be necessary.