Head Injury in Children: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Q: Head Injury in Children: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Hello： Whether or not to stitch a wound and the possibility of infection really depends on the condition of the wound. <br>If you're concerned, it's advisable to go to the hospital for an examination.

The child hit their head and is bleeding but was not taken to the hospital?

Hello, my eldest daughter is 3 years old.
On the 23rd, around 4 PM, she was jumping on the bed and accidentally fell, hitting the side of her head against the edge of a marble bedside table.
There was bleeding at the time, but it stopped, and I disinfected and applied medication.
However, the child wouldn't let me apply ice.
I didn't take her to the hospital, but there is a significant wound.
How long will it take for the swelling to go down? How can I determine if stitches are needed? It has been 34 hours since the incident, and her activity level, appetite, and sleep are all normal.
Should I still take her to the hospital to check the wound? Thank you.

Mandy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/25

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

Hello: Whether or not to stitch a wound and the possibility of infection really depends on the condition of the wound.
If you're concerned, it's advisable to go to the hospital for an examination.

Reply Date: 2015/12/25

More Info

When it comes to head injuries in children, especially young ones, it is crucial to be vigilant and informed about the signs and symptoms that may indicate a need for medical attention. Your daughter's situation, where she fell and hit her head, is a common occurrence among children, but it does require careful monitoring.

Firstly, the fact that your daughter experienced bleeding from the wound but it has since stopped is a positive sign. However, the presence of a wound, especially on the head, can be concerning. The healing process for head injuries can vary, but typically, minor cuts and abrasions on the scalp may take about one to two weeks to heal, depending on the depth and size of the wound. Swelling may occur due to the nature of the scalp, which has a rich blood supply, and this can take a few days to subside.
Regarding whether the wound requires stitches, there are a few factors to consider. Generally, if the wound is deep, gaping, or longer than about half an inch, it may need suturing. Additionally, if the edges of the wound do not come together easily, or if there is significant bleeding that does not stop, medical attention is warranted. Since you mentioned that the wound is not very large and your daughter is active, eating well, and sleeping normally, these are reassuring signs. However, if the wound appears to be worsening, shows signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge), or if your daughter starts exhibiting unusual behavior (like excessive sleepiness, irritability, or vomiting), you should seek medical attention immediately.

In terms of monitoring for potential complications, it is essential to watch for any signs of a more serious head injury. These include:
1. Loss of consciousness: If your daughter loses consciousness, even briefly, it is important to seek medical help.

2. Persistent vomiting: Repeated vomiting can indicate increased intracranial pressure or other complications.

3. Severe headache: If she complains of a severe headache that does not go away, this could be a sign of a more serious issue.

4. Confusion or disorientation: Any signs of confusion, difficulty waking up, or unusual behavior should prompt a visit to the doctor.

5. Unequal pupil size: If you notice that one pupil is larger than the other, this could indicate a serious problem.

If your daughter continues to show normal behavior and the wound appears to be healing well, you may not need to rush to the hospital. However, it is always better to err on the side of caution. If you have any doubts or concerns, especially given the nature of head injuries, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess the wound and determine if any further treatment is necessary.

In conclusion, while your daughter's current state appears stable, keep a close eye on her for any changes. If you notice anything concerning or if the wound does not seem to improve, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. It's always better to be safe, especially when it comes to head injuries in children.

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