Head injury is the leading cause of childhood injury. A blow to the head or fall on the head my lead to scalp swelling, bruising, lacerations, skull fractures, concussions, or even brain injuries. If you child has a head injury look for the following signs, which may be indications that your child needs to be evaluated by a physician.
In order to prevent injuries, remind your child to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, scooter, roller blades, skateboard, snowboard, downhill skis or other moving object.
- Loss of consciousness – loss of consciousness is the sign of a significant concussion. Talk to your doctor about when your child should resume normal activities or sports. Note: Infants who do not cry soon after a fall may have lost consciousness and may need to see a physician.
- Persistent bleeding – Some injuries my require stitches in order to stop the bleeding and improve healing outcomes.
- Swelling – Infants or young children with swelling over the far sides of their scalp may be at higher risk for skull fractures. Note: Infants and children may develop a large bump on the forehead (sometimes referred to as a “goose egg”) after a fall. A cool compress and pain medication may be all that is needed for such a bump, unless one of the following symptoms occur:
- Nausea or vomiting – Nausea or vomiting may be a sign of a skull fracture or brain contusion. Your child should be evaluated by a physician.
- Lethargy or confusion – If your child seems more sleepy than usual or confused after a head injury, he or she should be evaluated by a physician.
In order to prevent injuries, remind your child to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, scooter, roller blades, skateboard, snowboard, downhill skis or other moving object.
