Page 2 Session 7 Head injuries

Recognising Cerebral Compression
It is easier to recognise the symptoms or warning signs of cerebral compression in others than in yourself, simply because pressure on the brain is disorientating and can cause confusion, often altering your sense of rationality. If you suspect that you might be suffering after a head injury, the best course of action is to seek some form of help immediately.

When looking for symptoms of cerebral compression in children, the most obvious indication is if their level of response deteriorates. You should aim to get them to the hospital as soon as possible, especially if they become unconscious. There are other symptoms which can be an indicator of cerebral compression; many of these are similar to symptoms of concussion, but will usually present themselves more severely:

• Intense/major headache
  
• Increasingly slow, loud/deep breathing
  
• Strong but slowed pulse
  
• Excessive drowsiness
  
• Pupils differ in size or dilation.
  
• Flushed/red face and a high or rising temperature
  
• Loss of strength, feeling or movement down one side of the face or body
  
• Noticeable or dramatic change in behaviour, i.e. disorientation or irritability

Again, if you spot any of these symptoms in a child who has recently suffered from a head injury, it is important to call an ambulance straight away. Cerebral compression is one of the most threatening consequences of a head injury, and quick response treatment is necessary to prevent any excessive, long-term term or permanent damage to the brain.