11/02/2026
Head trauma is an injury to the scalp, skull, or brain caused by an external force such as a fall, blow, or collision. It can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries that result in brain swelling, bleeding, and increased intracranial pressure. These changes can disrupt normal brain function and interfere with the brain’s ability to regulate vital processes, including breathing.
Breathing is affected because the brainstem controls respiratory rate, depth, and rhythm. When head trauma increases intracranial pressure or causes direct damage to respiratory centers, breathing patterns may become slow, irregular, or ineffective.
Patients may develop hypoventilation, airway obstruction, or abnormal patterns such as Cheyne-Stokes respirations. In addition, elevated carbon dioxide levels can worsen cerebral blood flow and further increase intracranial pressure.
For these reasons, maintaining a clear airway, adequate oxygenation, and proper ventilation is critical to prevent secondary brain injury and support recovery.
Bismillah Diagnostic Centre
