HEAD INJURIES

Minor bumps on the head are also a normal part of growing up. A child should cry and want to be comforted initially. After this, he may drift off to sleep for a short period, tired from the whole incident. It is fine for them to sleep for 15-20 minutes. After that time, wake him up to make sure he is arousable. At that time he would be expected to play normally.

Notify us right away if your child does not cry as expected from a significant bump to the head, becomes irritable for more than 20 minutes after falling, acts dazed or becomes unarousable. These signs would indicate a more severe head injury and necessitate him being examined immediately. Do not be too concerned about what the pupils are doing, but instead observe what the child is acting like. If there is ever a question about the severity of the injury, please call us for help.

Following is a list of warning signs for head injuries:

• Repeated vomiting, not just initially when the child is crying.
• Any loss of consciousness, even for a brief period.
• Blurred or double vision.
• Persistent dizziness.
• Inability to stay awake after an initial 15-20 minute nap.
• Severe headache.
• Amnesia of event or any confusion.
• Any obvious depression in the skull.