Hitting one's head usually leads to damage of the scalp alone, rarely is there injury to the brain. Big lumps can occur with minor injuries; therefore, close observation for the first 24 hours will insure that no serious complication exists. Vomiting can occur after a head injury. If vomiting does occur or if any of the other symptoms listed below are present, call your doctor.

Observation:

• Check pupils to make sure they are equal in size and become smaller when a light is shined in them. Check this every two hours, at bedtime, and twice during the night.
• Awaken your child twice during the night, making sure he is able to walk and talk normally.

 

Treatment:

• Give clear fluids until your child has gone six hours without vomiting, or longer if he does not feel like solid foods.
• Place ice on the injury and have your child lie down until they feel better.
• Give appropriate doses of aspirin-substitute, but DO NOT GIVE ASPIRIN.

 

Call doctor if:

• Severe headache is present.
• Vomiting occurs.
• Child is confused and not acting like himself.
• Child sleeps continuously and cannot be aroused.
• There is difficulty with speaking.
• Vision is blurred.
• There is unsteadiness in walking.
• Child has difficulty using his arms.
• Neck pain develops.
• You note blood or watery fluid in the ears or nose.
• Child has a seizure-convulsion.
• Any other symptom that concerns you.

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