Emergency & Urgent Care
Head Injuries & Falls
Babies fall frequently as they learn to roll, sit, crawl. Most head bumps are minor. Watch for signs of serious injury: loss of consciousness, vomiting repeatedly, severe crying (won't calm), large swelling, clear fluid from nose/ears, seizure, unequal pupils.
Babies have soft spots (fontanelles) that provide some protection, but serious head injuries can still occur.
NEVER shake a baby - can cause severe brain damage.
What to Do
- For minor bump with no concerning symptoms: Apply cold compress for 20 minutes
- Watch closely for 24 hours even if seems fine - symptoms can appear hours later
- Signs to watch for: vomiting (more than once), excessive sleepiness, won't stop crying, behavior change, balance problems, unequal pupils
- For fall from height (>3 feet) or high-impact fall: Go to ER even if baby seems fine
- Wake baby every 2-3 hours during first night after head injury to check responsiveness
- Call doctor if you notice ANY concerning symptoms: vomiting, lethargy, won't eat, personality change
- DO NOT give pain medication until doctor evaluates (can mask symptoms)
- For skull fracture (visible dent, bump getting bigger): Go to ER immediately
- Prevent falls: Never leave baby unattended on elevated surface (changing table, bed, couch)
When to call a doctor
Call 911 immediately if baby loses consciousness, has seizure, won't wake up, vomits repeatedly, has clear fluid from nose/ears, or was in high-impact fall (from changing table, down stairs).