A thick layer of tissue, known as the dura, covers the outside of the brain and spinal cord. There are blood vessels both under and above the dura.

An epidural hemorrhage is bleeding that occurs between the dura and the inside surface of the skull. An impact to the skull can fracture the skull. The fracture can rupture an artery directly underneath the bone.

When the artery ruptures, blood collects between the brain and the skull. The blood places pressure against the brain, which results in malfunction of the brain. Symptoms occur within a few hours of the injury. In order to relieve the pressure, the blood must be removed immediately.

For more information:

• Epidural hematoma