After getting into a crash, it is important to understand the potential physical damages you may face. The injuries you sustain could have different rates of healing and potential long-term repercussions that you should anticipate.
Among the potential injuries, you should especially keep an eye out for red flags indicating skull fractures.
Physical indicators of skull fracture
Merck Manual examines potential red flags that may indicate a skull fracture. First, note that you will likely not have the mental wherewithal to identify a skull fracture if you have suffered from one. Thus, most people in a vehicle should know what signs to look for in case some or all passengers end up incapacitated.
If you can check a crash victim, look around their eyes and behind their ears. Blood will often pool in the hollow areas of the skull, such as these aforementioned places, which will cause bruising. You may also notice blood coming from the ears, which may build up behind the eardrums and leak out if the eardrums burst.
Keep an eye out for clear liquid, too. This is cerebrospinal fluid, which covers the brain and may leak out through the ears or nose if the brain ends up damaged.
Related neurological signs
Skull fractures can also cause almost immediate neurological symptoms. A victim may experience paralysis, confusion, aggression, and intense head pain. It is possible a victim might have been knocked out due to the force of the head trauma, so you may not have any reactions to base your deductions on.
If you notice any of these signs, get emergency medical help as soon as possible. Explain there is a possibility of a potential skull fracture so medics know what to expect upon arrival.
