Intracranial pressure refers to the pressure on the inside of the skull caused by fluid, swelling, or bleeding around the brain. A healthy brain is cushioned by cerebrospinal fluid, but when that pressure builds up, it can be dangerous.
Intracranial pressure can occur after a car accident. Is it dangerous, and can it be treated?
How intracranial pressure happens
Increased pressure on the brain can result from head trauma, stroke, infection or a tumor. One common cause is a car accident, especially if the impact leads to a blow to the head and brain movement in the skull. This can cause the brain to swell or bleed, creating more pressure inside the skull.
Why it is dangerous
The skull is a closed space, so there is only so much room for the brain and surrounding fluid. When pressure rises, it can reduce blood flow and oxygen to the brain. This can damage brain tissue or cause life-threatening complications if not treated quickly.
Symptoms and treatment
Signs of high intracranial pressure may include headache, vomiting, confusion, blurred vision and drowsiness. In more serious cases, people may experience seizures or lose consciousness.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Doctors may use medications to reduce swelling or perform surgery to relieve pressure. In emergency situations, a portion of the skull might be temporarily removed to allow the brain to swell safely.
Some people recover fully, especially if treated quickly. Others may face long-term issues like memory problems, speech difficulties or changes in behavior. In severe cases, increased intracranial pressure can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.
Understanding how brain pressure works and spotting the signs early can make a big difference in recovery outcomes. If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to personal injury compensation.