Subdural hematoma often develops as a complication after a head injury. Acute subdural hematoma progresses rapidly, with symptoms usually appearing within 24 hours of the injury. Rapid deterioration occurs thereafter. Subacute subdural hematoma usually develops symptoms within 2 to 10 days after the injury because of a slightly slower leakage of blood into the subdural area. Typically, symptoms of the original injury improve for a period, followed by development of symptoms of subdural hematoma.
Subdural hematoma occurs in people of all ages.
Chronic subdural hematoma occurs in about 1 out of 10,000 people. Signs And Tests Consult the health care provider promptly for any head injury that results in even a brief loss of consciousness , or if other symptoms are present after head injury even without loss of consciousness. Reflexes may be abnormal. There may be signs of increased intracranial pressure . The skull may be tender to when gently tapped on one or both sides.