The subtle differences between mild and serious head injuries in kids – and when to seek urgent medical help
A fall on the playground, a nasty dent on the edge of the coffee table—most kids suffer a hit to the head at some point.
However, there are situations that require urgent medical attention, an expert warns.
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Pediatric Nurse Justine has shared some practical tips on when a head injury is minor and treatable at home, and what the warning signs are of something more serious.
In a video posted to Instagram, she said, “The good thing to know is that most head injuries are really mild.”
If they cry “immediately”, that’s usually a good sign, according to the expert.
You might also have a mild headache that goes away fairly quickly but should start playing again shortly after, she added.
You can help your little one recover faster by placing an ice pack on their head, which will reduce swelling and pain.
But not all bumps are created equal and in some cases they can be deadly if not taken seriously.
“If your child has any of these symptoms, call [999] immediately,” Justine said.
- unconsciousness (even for a few seconds)
- Fall from a considerable height
- Persistent vomiting
- Headaches that don’t go away
- Blood or fluids from the mouth or ears
- Pale
- diskette
- Very tired
- changes to her speech
- memory problems
- Are heartbroken
- agitated
- Aggressive
- Unsteady on his feet
“You have to be alert and sign up both right after and up to 45 hours after the party,” she said.
“Please see a doctor if they occur,” she added.
How to prevent head injuries
It is impossible to make your home absolutely secure.
However, according to the Centers for Disease Control, there are some things you can do to make your head injury a little less likely.
If possible, install window guards to prevent small children from falling out of open windows.
Use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs when small children are around.
And if you have an outdoor playground in your backyard, make sure there’s something soft underneath – sand, for example.
How serious are head injuries?
According to the NHS, MOST head injuries will not be that serious.
However, it’s important to seek medical help if you or your child develops symptoms after a head injury.
This indicates that you may have a concussion that can last for several weeks.
A serious head injury can result in bleeding, blood clots, or fluid build-up putting pressure on the brain.
This can sometimes lead to brain damage, which can be temporary or permanent.
About one in 2,000 people who present to an emergency room with a head injury dies as a result of their injury.
You should also contact the emergency room if you think someone has been intentionally hurt.
Source: NHS
