Minor and Severe Head Injuries in Kids

Signs and Symptoms of Minor Head Injuries

• May have had a bump to the head.
• Has not lost consciousness at all.
• Is now alert and interacts with you.
• Has not vomited.
• May have minor bruises or cuts on their head.
• Is otherwise normal.

Signs and Symptoms of Severe Head Injuries

(Symptoms can be delayed and appear in the weeks after the accident)

• Loses consciousness (passes out).
• Has a seizure, convulsion or fit.
• Is increasingly confused, has memory loss or is less responsive or drowsy.
• Has loss of vision or double vision.
• Unable to open their eyes, speak or follow commands.
• Has weakness or numbness/tingling in more than one arm or leg.
• Has neck pain or tenderness.
• Seems unwell and vomits more than once.
• Has a severe or increasing headache.
• Bleeds or has watery discharge from the ears or nose.
• Is increasingly agitated, irritable, combative or has slurred speech.