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How is a head injury treated?

Treatment for a head injury will depend on the severity of the injury and symptoms. Most mild head injuries can be treated at home with observation to ensure that no more serious symptoms develop over time. If the injury is more serious, it may require surgery, monitoring in hospital, or treatment to manage body temperature and pressure in the skull.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of head injuries in children?

Symptoms of a head injury may vary, depending on the age of the child and the cause and severity of the injury. Possible symptoms may include headaches, bruising, bleeding, swelling, vomiting and dizziness. In more severe injuries, the …

What causes head injury in children?

Most head injuries are the result of a sporting accident, a fall from a height, or a motor vehicle accident.

How is a head injury diagnosed?

A head injury is diagnosed with a medical history from the parent or caregiver, and a physical examination. Most mild cases of injury will not require any imaging, but a computerized tomography (CT) scan may be performed for a moderate to severe injury.

Will a head injury clear on its own?

Most mild and moderate head injuries will resolve over time, leading to a full recovery without any complications. However, a severe head injury may require ongoing medical attention and treatment.

What can be done at home to treat a head injury?

Treatment for a head injury will depend on the severity of the damage. Assuming there are no complications, most mild head injuries can be treated with pain-relief medications, rest, and icepacks applied to the affected area. More severe …

Can head injuries be prevented?

Many head injuries can be prevented by supervising children while they are on high furniture or equipment, and by making sure any play areas at home are surrounded by soft landings. It is also important to ensure that children wear a helmet while riding a …

What is the prognosis following a head injury?

Minor head injuries with no associated brain injury generally result in a full recovery without long-term complications.

Is a head injury serious?

Although some head injuries can be serious and potentially life-threatening, most mild and moderate cases of head trauma can be effectively treated and result in a full recovery.

How common are head injuries in children?

It is very common for children to injure their heads. It is one of the main reasons why parents and caregivers bring their children to hospital emergency departments.

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About this article

Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 17 Oct 2018
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 947 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Croup

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