Head Injuries in Children: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Q: Head Injuries in Children: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Hello： If you experience vomiting immediately after eating, it may be necessary to consider gastrointestinal disorders. <br>Vomiting caused by head trauma is quite specific and differs from vomiting due to general gastrointestinal issues. <br>Therefore, I recommend that you follo

Pediatric head injury

Doctor, my one-year-old daughter accidentally hit her head while playing yesterday afternoon.
The back of her head struck the ground, and she initially just cried.
However, in the evening, she started to vomit, so we rushed her to the hospital.
The doctor said there was no major issue and that she just needed rest and observation.
However, her condition has not improved today; she continues to vomit every time she eats.
Although she can answer questions, she keeps holding her head and complaining of pain.
I don't know what to do, so I seek your help.
The doctor at Chang Gung said that a CT scan involves radiation, which can affect the brain development of young children.
Is that true? Also, what should I do since my child cannot eat normally? As a mother, I am extremely anxious.
Please help me, doctor.

Xiao Bao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/27

Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery

Hello: If you experience vomiting immediately after eating, it may be necessary to consider gastrointestinal disorders.
Vomiting caused by head trauma is quite specific and differs from vomiting due to general gastrointestinal issues.
Therefore, I recommend that you follow up at the outpatient clinic.
Since I am unaware of when your injury occurred, it is not easy to assess your condition.
Additionally, the radiation exposure from a CT scan is significantly higher than that of a standard X-ray, which can have a greater impact on newborns.
It is advisable to avoid it unless absolutely necessary.
Sincerely, Dr.
Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery.

Reply Date: 2004/12/27

More Info

When it comes to head injuries in children, especially in young ones like your one-year-old daughter, it is crucial to understand the symptoms and when to seek medical help. Head injuries can range from mild to severe, and the response to such injuries can vary significantly based on the child's age, the mechanism of injury, and the symptoms presented.

Symptoms of Head Injuries
After a head injury, children may exhibit various symptoms, including:
1. Immediate Symptoms: Crying, confusion, or loss of consciousness. In your daughter's case, the initial crying after hitting her head is a common response.

2. Delayed Symptoms: These can include vomiting, persistent headache, dizziness, or changes in behavior. Your daughter’s vomiting and persistent headache are concerning and warrant further evaluation.

3. Neurological Symptoms: These may include difficulty waking up, unusual irritability, or seizures. If your daughter is holding her head and complaining of pain, this could indicate increased intracranial pressure or another serious issue.

When to Seek Help
You should seek immediate medical attention if your child exhibits any of the following:
- Repeated vomiting (as you described).

- Persistent headache that does not improve.

- Confusion or difficulty waking up.

- Unequal pupil size or other visual disturbances.

- Seizures.

- Any signs of weakness or inability to move parts of the body.

Given your daughter's symptoms of vomiting and persistent headache, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider. While the initial assessment may have indicated no significant injury, the ongoing symptoms suggest that further evaluation is necessary.

Imaging and Radiation Concerns
Regarding your question about CT scans and radiation exposure, it is true that CT scans involve exposure to radiation, which can be a concern for young children. However, the decision to perform a CT scan is typically based on the clinical judgment of the physician, weighing the risks of radiation against the potential benefits of diagnosing a serious condition. If your daughter’s symptoms persist or worsen, a CT scan may be warranted to rule out any intracranial injuries, such as bleeding or swelling.

Managing Symptoms
While waiting for further medical evaluation, here are some general guidelines for managing your daughter's symptoms:
- Hydration: Ensure she stays hydrated, especially if she is vomiting. Offer small sips of clear fluids.

- Rest: Encourage her to rest in a quiet, comfortable environment. Avoid stimulating activities that may exacerbate her headache.

- Pain Management: Consult with your healthcare provider about appropriate pain relief options for her age, as over-the-counter medications may not be suitable for very young children.

Conclusion
As a parent, it is natural to feel anxious when your child is unwell, especially after a head injury. Trust your instincts; if you feel that something is not right, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Continuous monitoring of her symptoms is crucial, and if her condition does not improve or worsens, returning to the doctor or seeking a second opinion is advisable. Your child's health and well-being are the top priority, and ensuring she receives the appropriate care is essential.

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