5 Ways to Recognize Indications of a Head Injury

1. Signs of Trauma

Head injuries can be external and only be on the scalp, or they can be internal. The brain and skull can be affected with an internal head injury. It's important to recognize indications of a head injury early so an individual can be treated. There are many signs and symptoms that a person has sustained a head injury. The most obvious indication is trauma to the head, such as a wound, swelling, fractures or bleeding.

2. Leaking Fluid

Depending on the severity of the head injury, there may be bleeding or nasal discharge. Look at the injured person's ears and determine if any fluid is leaking from them. The fluid is usually clear. Blood may also come out of the mouth. There can also be swelling and bruising under the eyes. Some people who suffer head injuries will have increased intracranial pressure in their head. This often causes nausea and vomiting.

3. Seizures and Loss of Consciousness

If a loss of consciousness has occurred after a blow to the head, it usually indicates some level of a head injury. Be aware that the person may become unconsciousness with both serious internal head injuries and relatively minor concussions. Another serious sign of a head injury is a seizure. If a person experiences either unconsciousness or a seizure after a head injury, he should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out a serious head injury.

4. Eyes, Ears and Mouth

Watch for signs of a head injury such as trouble talking. The injured person may not make much sense or may have trouble recalling words. Speech may be slurred. Look at the eyes. Pupils should be equal and reactive to light. The injured person may have trouble with their vision. Problems may include blurred or double vision.

5. Unusual Behavior

Changes in personality after a blow to the head may indicate the person suffered an injury to the head. Changes in personality include sudden agitation or irritability. Watch for other indicators in behavior such as confusion or excessive sleepiness. Signs of a head injury may not occur immediately after the injury. Sometimes symptoms will start a few hours or even a few days after the blow to the head.