Head Injury and Concussion

Key Points

Overview

A head injury refers to any trauma to the scalp, skull, or brain. While many head injuries are minor, some can lead to a concussion, which is a temporary brain injury affecting how your brain works. Concussions can cause a range of symptoms, from headaches and dizziness to problems with memory and balance. It's crucial to understand when a head injury requires urgent medical attention, as some signs can indicate a more serious underlying issue. Even if an injury seems minor, monitoring symptoms and knowing how to properly care for yourself or a child at home is important. Recovery from a concussion typically involves rest and avoiding activities that could worsen symptoms, often lasting a few weeks. Following medical advice helps ensure a safe and complete recovery.

Signs and Symptoms

• Knocked out or unable to stay awake
• Having a fit or seizure
• Problems with vision or hearing
• Clear fluid from ears or nose
• Bleeding from ears or bruising behind ears
• New numbness or weakness in body
• Difficulty walking, balancing, understanding, speaking, or writing
• Vomiting
• Feeling dizzy
• Changes in behavior (e.g., irritability, distraction)

Things That Increase the Risk

• Falling from a height (over 1 meter or 5 stairs)
• High-speed impact (e.g., road accident)
• Being under 1 year old with a head bruise, swelling, or large cut
• Having a blood-thinning condition or taking blood thinners
• Alcohol or drug use at the time of injury

Diagnosis

• Assessment of symptoms by a medical professional
• Neurological examination
• Observation for worsening signs
• Review of injury circumstances

Treatment & Management

• Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling
• Rest and avoid stress
• Take paracetamol for headaches
• Ensure an adult stays with the injured person for 24 hours
• Avoid work or school until feeling better
• Do not drive until fully recovered
• Avoid contact sports for at least 3 weeks
• Do not drink alcohol or take drugs until recovered
• Avoid sleeping pills unless advised by a doctor

Prevention

• Wear helmets during sports and cycling
• Use seatbelts in vehicles
• Childproof homes to prevent falls
• Avoid risky activities that could lead to head trauma

Related Diseases

• Post-concussion syndrome
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Epidural Hematoma
• Subdural Hematoma

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Head Injury and Concussion:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Head Injury and Concussion: