What is a head injury?
A head injury is any bump or impact that affects the scalp, skull or brain. The effects from head injuries vary widely, but most are mild and heal well. Some more serious head injuries may need further medical care.
Head injuries can be grouped into two broad categories:
- Closed head injury – refers to an impact that doesn’t break through the skull. As our skull is very strong, most head injuries are closed injuries.
- Open head injury – when a force is strong enough to pierce or crack the skull. These injuries have a higher chance of complications and may require a longer recovery time.
Whether a head injury is open or closed, the impact can range from mild to severe. Some of the most recognised types of head injury include:
- Scalp cuts and grazes – minor injuries to the scalp, including bruising and swelling.
- Concussion – can happen after a bump on the head – it is usually mild and improves with rest.
- Skull fractures – a more severe impact that causes the skull to crack.
- Contusions – these are bruises on the brain itself, caused by bleeding or swelling to a specific area. Most people recover well with rest, but more serious bruising may require treatment.
- Brain haemorrhage – a more serious injury where bleeding happens inside the skull. This can increase pressure on the brain which needs urgent medical care.
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) – this is a more serious type of brain injury caused by car accidents and serious falls. Most TBI’s will require a hospital stay.
What are the symptoms of a head injury
The symptoms of a head injury can look very different, depending on the type a person has. Symptoms include:
- Headaches – these can be brief, or last for several days.
- Swelling and bruising – around the injured area, which usually fades over time.
- Bleeding – from a cut or graze. Some people have nosebleeds or bleeding from the ears.
- Stiff or painful neck – caused by muscles being jarred during impact.
- Dizziness, nausea and vomiting – especially after concussion.
- Balance problems – or feeling unsteady.
A head injury usually improves with rest, but it’s important to look out for signs that the injury is more serious. Contact a medical professional if you notice any of the following:
- Confusion – and not feeling yourself.
- Clear fluid leaking from the ears or nose – may be a cerebrospinal fluid leak
- Changes in consciousness – including fainting, feeling overly sleepy, or being difficult to wake.
- Seizures – can be a sign of a more serious head injury.
