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Head Injury, Age 3 and Younger

Overview

Almost all children will bump their heads, especially when they are babies or toddlers and are just learning to roll over, crawl, or walk. These accidents may upset you, but your anxiety is usually worse than the injury. Most head injuries in children are minor.

Bumps, cuts, and scrapes on the head and face most often heal well and can be treated the same as injuries to other parts of the body. A minor cut on the head often bleeds heavily. This is because the face and scalp have many blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. The blood is alarming, but often the injury is not severe and you can stop the bleeding with home treatment. When you can't stop the bleeding, visit a doctor. A young child can lose a large amount of blood from a deep cut on the head.

Some head injuries are more serious. This is called a traumatic brain injury (TBI). A TBI can range from a mild concussion, Opens dialog to a severe head injury. Common causes of a severe head injury in this age group include falls and abuse (inflicted head injuries), such as abusive head trauma, Opens dialog. This is also known as shaken baby syndrome.

Anyone with a head injury should be watched, especially from the causes noted above. If you think that any symptoms may be serious, see a doctor for an evaluation.

When a head injury has occurred, also look for injuries to other parts of the body. The alarm of seeing a head injury may cause you to miss other injuries that need attention. Trouble breathing, shock, spinal injuries, and severe bleeding are all life-threatening injuries that may occur along with a head injury and that need medical attention right away. Injuries to the spine, Opens dialog, especially the neck, must be checked for when a head injury has occurred. Be sure to check for other injuries to the face, mouth, or teeth.

Many head injuries can be prevented. Use car seats, seat belts, and helmets. And make your home safe from falls. For example, never leave your baby alone in a high place, such as on a table or a bed. Establish safe habits early so your child will keep doing them when your child is older.

Information about Head Injury, Age 3 and Younger

Current as of: December 20, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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