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Symptom Checker

Head Injury in Children

A head injury is any injury to the scalp, skull or brain. It can range from a minor bump or bruise to a concussion or more serious brain injury.

Falls, sports, vehicle crashes, being struck by an object and other accidents are common causes of head injuries in children.

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AAP Guide to Head Injury in Children

The AAP guide below explains what to watch for after a head injury and when your child needs urgent care.

AAP Symptom CheckerHead injury

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child vomits repeatedly after the injury.
  • Your child develops a worsening headache, balance problems, confusion or unusual sleepiness.
  • Your child has memory problems, vision changes or is not acting normally.
  • The injury happened with significant force or you are worried about a concussion.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has a seizure, loses consciousness and does not recover normally, or cannot be woken.
  • Your child develops weakness, slurred speech or severe confusion.
  • Your child has uncontrolled bleeding or a severe head/neck injury.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on knocks, pain and injuries

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms