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A head injury is an injury to the scalp, skull, or brain. Many head injuries are mild, like a bump on the head. But others are more serious and need medical care right away.
Head injuries in kids and teens can happen from:
Head injuries include:
Symptoms depend on the type of injury. For a mild head injury, the only symptom may be a little pain. If the skin is broken, the scalp may bleed. More serious head injuries may cause someone to pass out, feel dizzy, or vomit.
Doctors diagnose head injuries by asking how the injury happened and doing a careful exam of the head. If there was bleeding, sometimes they’ll use stiches or staples to close the scalp wound.
Diagnosing most mild head injuries can be done without medical tests. Doctors may order a CAT scan or other imaging study of the head for more serious injuries.
Call 911 if your child has a head injury and they:
If your child isn’t breathing, do CPR if you know how. If there is bleeding, hold firm pressure on it until it stops. Do not move your child unless they are in an unsafe place and might get injured more. If your child is wearing a helmet or other sports equipment, don’t try to take it off.
If your child has a head injury, even if it seems mild, they should stop the activity they are doing (including sports). Call your doctor, who will talk to you about the injury and symptoms and decide if your child needs medical care.
Trust your instincts. You know your child best. If you think they don’t look or seem right, call your doctor or 911.
Not all head injuries can be prevented. But it’s always wise to:
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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