Which symptom might be present in a patient with a skull fracture?

A patient with a skull fracture may present with raccoon eyes, which are periorbital ecchymoses or bruising around the eyes. This specific symptom is indicative of potential skull base fractures, particularly involving the anterior cranial fossa, where the force of the injury causes vascular damage and allows blood to accumulate in the soft tissue around the eyes, leading to the characteristic bruising appearance. Raccoon eyes are often an important physical sign that can help healthcare professionals assess the severity and nature of the head injury. Additionally, this symptom may serve as a visual cue for the potential involvement of the brain or other critical structures, signaling the need for further evaluation and management.

The other symptoms, while they may occur with various types of head injuries, do not specifically correlate with a skull fracture in the same way. Loss of balance, ear ringing, and increased sensitivity to sound can arise from different inner ear or neurological issues, not directly linked to the presence of a skull fracture.