How to Treat a Brain Contusion

A brain contusion is a serious trauma that causes brain tissue to bruise. Most contusions occur from an impact to your cranium, either through an accident, a fall or sporting incident. Serious contusions require prompt medical treatment, as blood can leak into your skull cavity, causing pressure to develop within your brain. This can be a life-threatening condition. Serious contusions can lead to coma and even death. Recovering from a contusion can take time, as any damage to your brain may cause impairments such as speech difficulties, memory loss and mood changes.

Instructions

• 1

  Undergo a Glascow Coma Scale. This is a test that checks your ability to speak, follow directions and move your eyes and body. The lower you score on the test, the more severe your injury may be.

• 2

  Get a CT scan.

  Have imaging tests done on your brain. A CT scan will be able to locate where the contusion is.

• 3

  Take diuretics. Diuretics help to flush the body of fluids, which can relieve pressure on your brain. Ask your doctor if taking diuretics is appropriate for you and follow his advice implicitly.

• 4

  Take antiseizure medications, if prescribed by your physicians or surgeons.These medications are sometimes necessary after suffering a brain contusion.

• 5

  Undergo surgery.

  Undergo surgery if necessary to control bleeding around the brain. Ensure you are monitored by your physician for intracranial pressure and to ensure that blood is flowing adequately around the brain.