When they become mobile, toddlers seem to have an endless supply of energy. Unfortunately, as they are exploring the world, they tend to bump into obstacles and fall down regularly. Although not every head injury requires emergency medical treatment, as a responsible parent, you need to be able to recognize the signs of a potential head injury.
Head Injuries
According to "Brain: A Journal of Neurology," head injury is the most common cause of death or disability in children. Despite the many bumps and bruises children accumulate, severe head injury is relatively rare because children's bodies are more resilient than those of adults. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile to learn the signs of head injuries so that you will know when your child needs medical attention.
External Injuries
External head injuries such as a bump, scrape or cut can be easy to detect. The muscles and skin covering the face and skull have a high concentration of blood vessels. A cut to the head that bleeds profusely may need to be cleaned and sutured -- stitched closed -- in a doctor's office or emergency room.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries can be more difficult to detect, but they are potentially serious. Bleeding or swelling of the brain can be potentially fatal if left untreated. If your child loses consciousness, even for a short period of time, a trip to the emergency room is warranted.
Signs
The severity of a head injury may not manifest itself immediately. If you know or suspect that your child has hit his head, carefully watch him for a few hours. After a head injury, your child may complain of a persistent headache, exhibit nausea and vomiting, sweat profusely, become pale in color, drip blood or clear fluid out of the nose or ears, or be difficult to awaken. More subtle symptoms may occur, including difficulty walking, slurred speech and behavioral changes, such as bizarre behavior and irritability, as well as seizures or convulsions. These are all signs of a serious head injury that require emergency medical attention.
Prevention
Preventing your child from ever bumping her head is impossible. However, be sure to take precautions when you can. Your child should always wear a helmet when riding a bike, skates or any other situation where she may be likely to fall. Keep your child away from high ledges or other places where she may fall a long distance. Be sure to use safety gates on the top and bottom of all stairs in your house.
