Head injuries can be intimidating to deal with for most parents. Dr Martina Alvarez (ENT Registrar) gives us some great advice on removing “headaches” from head injuries.ย
It’s common for toddlers and little ones to topple over and bump their heads as they learn to find balance. What’s important for parents is knowing when a knock or bump is something you can take care of at home or whether you need to get your little one to the doctor. As parents, you know your child best, and as Doctors, we’re collecting the evidence and information you share.ย
Differentiating between a mild head injury and a more severe injury
Your child’s behaviour. We have a few things that we look out for, namely:
- Losing consciousness is a sign that your child needs to be taken to the emergency room.
- If your child is vomiting, not eating or drinking, have them checked out by your doctor.ย
- Any other abnormal behaviour, and in particular, if your child is experiencing seizures, take them to the emergency room immediately.ย
These points, as mentioned above, are what we, as doctors, would say are the most significant indicators that your little one needs to be checked out immediately, as they could be indicators of more severe injuries.
Treating milder injuries
Milder head injuries would mean your child has no danger signs. For instance, your tiny tot fell, got up, they may have shed a few tears but are continuing with life as usual.ย
- The most important thing to remember is to “watch and wait.” Keep a close eye on your little one for a while and ensure they don’t display behaviour that’s out of the ordinary.ย
- Extra love and cuddles are required if your child is consolable with a mild injury that may have a little bruise. (bear in mind that if there is a cut with quite a bit of bleeding, you may need your doctor’s attention.
Treating major head injuries
Major head injuries warrant immediate hospital admission. Usually, as healthcare providers, we will conduct a CT scan to ensure that there are no internal injuries. If there is, we will outline the necessary care through our recommended therapies.ย
Take a few minutes to watch and share the full episode of Bestcare with Bestmed Medical Scheme’s head injuriesย here.
