Bumps In The Head: What Should I Do?

From the time children start walking, they are also at risk of falls and bumps on the head.

It is very common for children to hit their head, so even if you do not have to worry too much, it is something to be aware of.

You need to react quickly, depending on the severity of the accident.

To avoid more serious problems and react in the right way, it is important that you as parents are well informed about how to behave when a child falls and hits his head.

Bumps on the head: a common problem

Bumps on the head are common from the time a child begins to walk. Accidents can happen and both older and younger children can easily stumble and even fall from a higher height and hit themselves in the head. 

Of all accidents for children, falls and bumps on the head are the most common. Studies actually show that  about 50% of blows to the head occur in children under 15 years of age.

The most dangerous parts of the house for toddlers are changing tables, walking chairs, tables, bunk beds and chairs, among others.

When the child is older, these types of accidents occur when they play sports or take part in other physical activity.

How to react to bumps in the head

It is important that the child’s parents and relatives are well informed about what to do if an accident that causes a head injury occurs.

They need to know how the child should be treated and understand when it is necessary to take the child to a doctor.

Observation

One of the most important things is to observe your child when he hits his head. Monitor it for 72 hours after the accident, and take the child to the hospital immediately if any strange symptoms should occur.

When to go to the hospital

There are some symptoms that clearly indicate that a child should be taken to hospital immediately.  These symptoms are:

• Lost consciousness (even temporarily)
• Vomiting
• Speech difficulties
• Problems with coordination
• Memory loss

Bumps and bruises

In most cases, bumps in the head do not cause more than that the child is frightened.

If the child gets a bump, a bruise or a small wound, it is normal for him to feel discomfort and have a headache. In these cases, the parent should wash and treat the wound and put on ice, wrapped in a towel.

Even if the blow does not seem too serious, you parents must pay attention. If the bulge increases in size, it is wise to get to the hospital as soon as possible.

Skull fractures

When a skull fracture occurs, or if the child develops any of the following symptoms, you should call the emergency department or take the child to the hospital as soon as possible.

What are the symptoms of a skull fracture?

• Bloodshot eyes
• Bleeding from eyes or nose
• Memory loss and coordination problems
• The bones in the head seem to move when touched
• Speech difficulties
• Cramps
• Drowsiness

Supervision of infants

In the case of small children, parents must be especially careful, as the child’s skull is still very soft. The child should be monitored for several hours after the fall, and taken to a doctor in the following situations:

• If the bulge increases in size and softens

• If you have trouble breathing
• In case of drowsiness
• In case of irritability
• In case of vomiting

The most common consequence of a bump in the head is that the child gets a headache. In most cases, it can be solved with a little ice, a calm environment and a painkiller adapted for the child’s age.

As we have seen, parents or relatives must be aware of any symptoms  that may indicate that the child needs medical attention, whether it is a young child or an elderly person.

Although bumps on the head are probably the most common accident for children, keep in mind that the head is one of the most fragile parts of the body.

Observation is therefore very important for you as parents to be able to decide whether medical care is necessary or not.