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Warning-sign checks

Brain herniation: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care rather than waiting for a routine appointment if there is a new seizure, sudden severe headache, repeated vomiting, rapidly worsening confusion, new weakness, unequal pupils, loss of consciousness, or trouble breathing.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up depends on the cause and the effects of the brain injury.

    After hospital care, some people need repeat CT or MRI scans, medication review, wound checks, or appointments with neurosurgery, neurology, stroke, cancer, or infectious disease specialists.

    During routine follow-up, report ongoing headaches, sleep changes, problems with concentration, weakness, balance difficulty, medication side effects, or changes in mood.

    These concerns may need assessment, but they are not always signs of renewed herniation.

The article also says

Rehabilitation may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and swallowing therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation.

Recovery can continue over months, and progress may be uneven.

Families may also need guidance about supervision, return to work or school, driving, seizure precautions, and emotional or behavioral changes.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Brain herniation. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.