A bump on the head is a contusion or hematoma, a collection of blood under the skin or scalp after an impact. These are common, especially among active individuals and children, due to minor accidents and falls. While concerning, most head bumps are mild and resolve without serious complications. Understanding how to assess and care for these common injuries is helpful.
Evaluating the Injury
Assessing a head bump’s potential severity is the first step. Observe the bump’s size, location, and any visible cuts or abrasions. A “goose egg” lump often forms due to minor bleeding and swelling just beneath the scalp. Note the individual’s immediate reaction, such as brief dizziness, disorientation, or a headache.
Consider any momentary loss of consciousness, even if brief. Observe the person’s overall behavior and physical state in the minutes following the incident. This assessment helps distinguish between a simple, localized injury and one that might involve deeper tissues or affect brain function.
Providing Immediate Care
For a minor head bump without signs of a more serious injury, immediate at-home care focuses on reducing swelling and discomfort. Apply a cold compress, such as an ice pack wrapped in a cloth, to the affected area to minimize swelling and alleviate pain. This should be done for about 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between. Swelling typically begins to decrease within a few hours, though the bump may take several days to fully disappear.
Rest is recommended, and it is generally safe for the individual to sleep if they are not exhibiting concerning symptoms. For pain relief, acetaminophen can be used. However, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin should be avoided unless specifically advised by a medical professional, especially for children. Continuously monitor the individual for any developing symptoms.
Recognizing When to Seek Medical Help
Certain warning signs indicate that a head bump requires immediate medical attention. These include a severe or worsening headache not relieved by pain medication, repeated vomiting or persistent nausea, and neurological symptoms like slurred speech, confusion, difficulty with balance or walking, or unusual irritability or agitation.
Other serious indicators are any loss of consciousness (even fleeting), difficulty staying awake, excessive drowsiness, seizures, unequal pupil size, or unusual eye movements. Clear fluid or blood draining from the ears or nose also signals a potentially severe injury. For infants and young children, specific red flags include a bulging soft spot, inconsolable crying, refusal to feed, or any significant change in alertness or behavior. Symptoms of a serious head injury may not appear immediately and can develop hours or days after the initial impact, requiring continued vigilance.