Baby Head Bumps: Healing Time and Care Tips

Infant head injury

Doctor, my son is currently about 8 months old.
Four days ago, he bumped his head and we took him to see a doctor the same day.
There was no major injury, and we were advised to observe him at home.
However, the bump on his head feels soft and has a fluid-like sensation inside.
I would like to know how long it typically takes for this type of bump to go away.
Should we apply ice or heat to it?

Linlin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/18

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

The lump is likely a subcutaneous hematoma.
The duration for a subcutaneous hematoma to resolve varies depending on its size, which is related to the amount of bleeding.
Ice packs should be applied on the first day after the injury (and possibly for two days if the hematoma is large).
After three days, when the condition is more stable, heat therapy can be used to promote absorption.
For infants with head injuries, it is important to monitor for any brief loss of consciousness at the time of injury, and to observe their consciousness level, severe headaches, excessive crying or irritability, noticeable vomiting, or any neurological abnormalities such as weakness or paralysis in the limbs within three days.

Reply Date: 2019/06/18

More Info

When a baby experiences a head bump, it can understandably cause concern for parents. In your case, your 8-month-old son has a soft, fluid-filled bump on his head after an incident four days ago. It's good to hear that you consulted a doctor immediately after the injury and that there were no major concerns at that time.
The soft bump you are feeling is likely a hematoma, which is a collection of blood outside of blood vessels, or it could be a seroma, which is a collection of fluid. Both are common after head injuries in infants and can occur due to the trauma. The healing time for these types of bumps can vary, but generally, they may take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to resolve completely.
In terms of care, here are some tips:
1. Observation: Continue to monitor the bump for any changes. If it becomes larger, harder, or if your child exhibits any unusual symptoms (such as excessive crying, vomiting, lethargy, or changes in behavior), you should seek medical attention promptly.

2. Cold Compress: In the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury, applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling. You can use a clean cloth soaked in cold water or a cold pack wrapped in a towel. Apply it for about 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin to prevent frostbite.

3. Heat Application: After the initial swelling has gone down (usually after 48 hours), you can switch to warm compresses to promote healing and comfort. This can help improve circulation to the area and facilitate the absorption of any fluid.

4. Pain Management: If your child seems uncomfortable, you can consult your pediatrician about appropriate pain relief options, such as acetaminophen, ensuring you follow the correct dosage for his age and weight.

5. Rest and Comfort: Ensure your child gets plenty of rest. Sometimes, after a head injury, babies may be more irritable or sleepy than usual. Providing a calm and safe environment can help.

6. Follow-Up: Since you've already seen a doctor, keep an eye on the bump and follow any specific instructions they provided. If you notice any new symptoms or if the bump does not start to improve after a week, it would be wise to return to the doctor for further evaluation.

In summary, while a soft, fluid-filled bump on your baby's head can be concerning, it is often a normal response to injury and will likely heal on its own. Keeping a close watch on your child's symptoms and providing appropriate care will help ensure a smooth recovery. If you have any doubts or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for reassurance and guidance.

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