Head Injury Advice Sheet

Advice for parents and carers of children

Click here to download a PDF version of this page

If during the next 48 hours your baby/child:

Vomits repeatedly i.e. more than twice (more than 10 minutes between each episode)
Becomes confused or unaware of their surroundings
Loses consciousness, becomes drowsy or difficult to wake
Has a convulsion or fit
Develops difficulty speaking or understanding what you are saying
Develops weakness in their arms and legs or starts losing their balance
Develops problems with their eyesight
Has clear fluid comes out of their nose or ears
Does not wake for feeds or cries constantly and cannot be soothed

You need urgent help.

Go to the nearest Hospital Emergency (A&E) Department or phone 999

If during the next 48 hours your child:

Develops a persistent headache that doesn’t go away (despite painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen)
Develops a worsening headache.

You need to contact a doctor or nurse today.

Please ring your GP surgery or call NHS 111 - dial 111

If your child:

Is alert and interacts with you
Vomits, but only up to twice
Experiences mild headaches, struggles to concentrate, lacks appetite or has problems sleeping in the next few days (if these symptoms go on for more than 2 weeks, make an appointment to see your GP).

Self care

Continue providing your child’s care at home. If you are still concerned about your child, call NHS 111 – dial 111

Things you shouldn't worry about

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