head injuries in children: problems to watch for
overview
what to watch for after a head injury
a minor head injury is sometimes hard to distinguish from a more serious injury to the brain even when there is no visible bleeding or injury on the outside of the skull.
check for the following changes immediately after a head injury:
- a significant change in the child's level of consciousness
- confusion or not acting normal, such as extreme fussiness or crying that cannot be comforted
- abnormally deep sleep, trouble waking up, or extreme sleepiness
- vomiting
- symptoms that affect one side of the body more than the other side, such as weakness or problems moving an arm or leg
- loss of vision
- seizure
a decrease in level of consciousness following a head injury may signal a life-threatening problem caused by bleeding, injury, or swelling within or around the brain. a child's level of consciousness can deteriorate suddenly or gradually. this change can be permanent or temporary.
if a parent or caregiver can't be sure that a child was conscious following a head injury, a visit to a doctor is needed for further evaluation.
credits
current as of: december 20, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: december 20, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
