Minor Head Injury in Children: Signs, First Aid, and When to Seek Help

A minor head injury can occur at any age and is common among children. In most cases, it does not cause lasting brain damage. A minor head injury may happen after a bump, knock, or blow to the head during play, sports, or a fall.

If a child sustains a minor head injury, it is important to comfort them, encourage rest, and apply a cold compress to the affected area to help reduce swelling.

🎥 Educational video on head injuries:

Common Signs of a Minor Head Injury

The symptoms of a minor head injury are usually mild and short-lived, and may include:

• Mild headache
• Minor dizziness
• Nausea
• Slight or brief blurring of vision

These symptoms often resolve on their own within a short period. However, symptoms should not worsen over time.

If symptoms gradually intensify or new symptoms appear, the child should be assessed by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Warning Signs of a More Serious Head Injury

Some symptoms may indicate possible brain injury and require urgent medical attention. Seek emergency care immediately if the child experiences:

• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness (brief or prolonged)
• Repeated vomiting
• Problems with vision, hearing, or balance
• Drainage of blood or clear fluid from the nose or ears
• Memory loss or confusion

⚠️ Important: For the first 24 hours after any head injury, a responsible adult should stay with the child to monitor for worsening or delayed symptoms.

First Aid and Home Care for Minor Head Injuries

Most children with a minor head injury are able to go home and recover fully within a few days.

Recommended care includes:

• Ensuring plenty of rest

• Avoiding contact sports or rough play until fully recovered

• Keeping stimulation (screens, loud noise) to a minimum

• Using paracetamol (acetaminophen) for mild headaches if needed

  • Do not give aspirin to children under 16, as it increases the risk of serious complications

If symptoms persist or worsen, medical reassessment is necessary.

Preventing Head Injuries in Children

While accidents cannot always be prevented, the risk of serious head injury can be reduced by:

• Child-proofing the home
• Ensuring children wear helmets when cycling or participating in sports
• Removing tripping hazards around the house
• Using appropriate safety equipment at school, during sports, and recreational activities

Learning how to respond appropriately to head injuries is a core skill taught in basic, intermediate, and advanced first aid training across Canada.

Educational Notice

This information is provided for learning and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Knowing how to recognize and respond to head injuries is an essential part of first aid.

Canadians are encouraged to learn proper assessment and response techniques by enrolling in recognized first aid and CPR training programs offered by certified providers across Canada, including locations in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Surrey, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, and Halifax.