HEAD
INJURY
Head
injury is one of the most common types of injury that children
experience. Fortunately, it is usually not serious and observation at
home is
all that is indicated. In addition, skull x-rays are rarely useful in
the management of minor head trauma.
Should your child experience a head injury a few important points will
be helpful.
Consult us immediately
if……….
·
If
your child loses consciousness, even briefly
·
If
he vomits more than twice
·
If
the pupils are of unequal size or do not
get small when a bright light is directed at them
·
If
the eyes do not move together normally or if they have rapid back and
forth movements
·
If
there is double vision
·
If
there is blood or clear fluid coming from the nose or ear canal
·
If
there is marked or progressive lethargy (sleepiness)
·
If
there are breathing problems
·
If
there is amnesia – does not remember what happened
·
If
there is any marked change in your child’s behavior
Most children will not
experience the above problems but may exhibit …..
·
Immediate crying – this is a good sign
·
Vomiting – once or twice in the first 6 hours after trauma
·
Lethargy – brief
·
Headache – brief
·
Dizziness – brief
·
Fatigue
·
Fussiness
·
Immediate swelling over the area of injury
Should your child experience a head injury, but has no symptoms in the first group above, you should do the following……
·
You
may allow him to sleep contrary to popular belief. However, you should
awaken him every hour or two to be sure that he
is arousable
·
Restrict vigorous activity for 24 to 48 hours after the injury
·
Give
only clear liquids for the first 24 hours after the injury
·
Give
Tylenol to relieve headache. Do
Not use aspirin
·
Place an ice pack on the swelling for 15 – 20 minutes. Observe for signs
or symptoms listed in the first group and call us if they
occur
