Head injury

Head injuries are the result of trauma to the skull, scalp or brain. Always seek medical attention for a head injury.

The hard skull and facial bones protect the brain. If the skull is injured, the brain becomes more vulnerable. When someone has a blow to the head, the brain moves and can knock against the skull. This type of injury may cause the brain to swell and even bleed.

The most common type of head injury is concussion. Concussion can include loss of consciousness, but loss of consciousness is often brief.

Read more about causes, signs and symptoms.

First aid for a head injury

Call Triple Zero (000) for someone with a head injury.

If you suspect they have a neck or spinal injury, follow the Neck and Spinal injury guide instead.

Follow the steps below to treat a head injury.

Step 1: Rest and reassure

• Keep the person calm
• Reassure them that help is on its way
• Lie them on their back
  
  

Step 2: Support their head

• Kneel by their head
• Rest your elbows on the knees or ground
• Hold either side of their head using your fingers without covering their ears
• Keep their head still to avoid any further damage to the area
  
  

Step 3: Support their neck

• Ask a person nearby to place rolled-up towels, blankets or clothing on either side of their head
• Hold this position until medical aid arrives
  
  

Step 4: Control any bleeding

• If any blood or fluid is coming from the ear, move the head to the side to allow it to drain out
• Place a clean medical pad or cloth between the ear and ground, but don't apply direct pressure to the head
• If there is a cut, gently apply a medical patch or dressing to stop the bleeding
  
  

Step 5: Keep them company

• Stay with them until an ambulance arrives
• Monitor their symptoms to make sure they aren't getting worse
• Talk to them to keep them calm and help them stay awake
• If they lose consciousness, follow the DRSABCD Action Plan