What is an epidural hematoma?
The dura is the lining that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. A person with an epidural hematoma has a collection of blood between the dura and the skull. The collection of blood places pressure against the brain, which can cause the brain to malfunction. Epidural hematomas are rare, and are most commonly caused by a head injury. Fractures of the temporal bone, a thinner portion of the skull (at the temple), are commonly associated with epidural hematoma. Epidural hematomas may also be present along the spinal cord where they can cause epidural compression syndrome.

What are the symptoms of an epidural hematoma?
Symptoms of a mild epidural hematoma include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and back pain. Symptoms of a worsening epidural hematoma include vision changes, difficulty walking, difficulty speaking, memory loss, confusion, fainting, and numbness or weakness in the arms or legs.

How does the doctor treat an epidural hematoma?
Treatment for epidural hematoma may include intravenous fluids, medications, corticosteroids, pain medications, and surgery to remove the hematoma and control bleeding.