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Most head injuries are not serious, but you should get medical help if you or your child have any symptoms after a head injury. You might have concussion (temporary brain injury) that can last a few weeks.
You or your child have had a head injury and have:
You or your child could have concussion. Symptoms usually start within 24 hours, but sometimes may not appear for up to 3 weeks.
You should also go to A&E if you think someone has been injured intentionally.
Someone has hit their head and has:
Also call 999 if you cannot get someone to A&E safely.
If you're not sure what to do, call 111 or get help from 111 online.
NHS 111 can tell you the right place to get help.
If you have been sent home from hospital with a minor head injury, or you do not need to go to hospital, you can usually look after yourself or your child at home.
You might have symptoms of concussion, such as a slight headache or feeling sick or dazed, for up to 2 weeks.
hold an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas in a tea towel) to the area regularly for short periods in the first few days to bring down any swelling
rest and avoid stress – you or your child do not need to stay awake if you're tired
take painkillers such as paracetamol for headaches
make sure an adult stays with you or your child for at least the first 24 hours
do not go back to work or school until you're feeling better
do not drive until you feel you have fully recovered
do not play contact sports for at least 3 weeks – children should avoid rough play for a few days
do not take drugs or drink alcohol until you're feeling better
do not take sleeping pills while you're recovering unless a doctor advises you to
