Baby Head Injury Warning Signs

Infants under one year old are particularly vulnerable to head injuries due to their developing skulls and limited ability to protect themselves. Falls are a common cause of head injuries in this age group. It's crucial for parents and caregivers to recognize signs that necessitate immediate medical attention.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Care:

If your baby experiences a head injury and exhibits any of the following symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately:

• Loss of Consciousness: Even brief periods of unresponsiveness require prompt evaluation.
• Difficulty Awakening: If your baby is unusually drowsy or hard to wake.
• Persistent Vomiting: Vomiting more than once or twice within an hour after the injury.
• Bulging Fontanelle: A bulging soft spot on the head in infants can indicate increased pressure inside the skull.
• Seizures: Any seizure activity following a head injury.
• Unusual Behavior: Signs of confusion, slurred speech, or difficulty walking.
• Severe Headache: A headache that persists or worsens over time.
• Blood or Fluid from Ears/Nose: Any discharge from the ears or nose after a head injury.
• Neck Pain or Abnormal Movement: Difficulty moving the neck or abnormal neck positioning.
• Large Swelling or Dents: Significant swelling (larger than 1 inch or 2.5 cm) or a noticeable dent in the skull.

(emergencyphysicians.org, seattlechildrens.org)

Immediate First Aid Measures:

While awaiting medical attention, you can take the following steps:

1. Ensure Safety: Gently move your baby to a safe area, avoiding any further injury.
2. Monitor Breathing: Check that your baby is breathing normally. If not, be prepared to perform CPR.
3. Avoid Movement: Limit movement to prevent potential spinal injuries.
4. Apply Cold Compress: If there is a bump or bruise, apply a cold pack wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling.
5. Keep Calm: Maintain a calm demeanor to help soothe your baby.

(sja.org.uk)

Monitoring After the Injury:

Even if your baby doesn't exhibit immediate severe symptoms, it's essential to monitor them closely for the next 24 to 48 hours. Watch for any changes in behavior, such as increased irritability, difficulty sleeping, or feeding problems. If any concerning signs develop, seek medical attention promptly.

(seattlechildrens.org)

Always err on the side of caution with head injuries in infants. When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional to ensure your baby's safety and well-being.