What are the typical symptoms of a chronic subdural hematoma?

The typical symptoms of a chronic subdural hematoma often present with an insidious onset, which means they develop gradually over time rather than suddenly. Patients frequently report a persistent headache that may vary in intensity. Cognitive impairment is also commonly observed, manifesting as confusion, memory issues, or difficulty concentrating. Apathy, characterized by a lack of interest or motivation, can further accompany these cognitive deficits. This symptom profile is particularly associated with chronic subdural hematomas, where symptoms may develop weeks to months after the initial bleed, often in older adults or individuals on anticoagulant therapy.

The other options describe symptoms that are more acute or severe in nature. A rapid onset of severe headache is more indicative of an acute subdural hematoma or other conditions, such as subarachnoid hemorrhage. Sudden vision changes and loss of balance may point to conditions like stroke or acute neurological events rather than a chronic process. Severe vomiting and photophobia are more characteristic of conditions such as meningitis or migraine rather than chronic subdural hematoma, which typically does not present with these symptoms.