Head Injuries

Here's what you should know

They don't call them "toddlers" for nothing—head injuries in kids are incredibly common! Thankfully, most head injuries are minor, and that head bump will heal up just fine.

Home care tips

• For head bumps with no visible goose egg (or a goose egg on the forehead only), we suggest giving some ibuprofen (for kids older than 6 months) or Tylenol and applying ice (a bag of frozen peas in a thin towel works great).
• Monitor your child for signs of a more concerning head injury.

When to contact a medical professional

• Head injuries that cause loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, or changes in behavior (not responding to you, acting strangely) should be evaluated at an emergency room.
• If the fall seemed "dramatic" (a high-velocity injury, a fall from a height of more than 3 feet in a child less than 2 years old, or a fall from more than 5 feet in a child 2 years or older), and they're not quite acting like themselves; contact your provider or go to a pediatric urgent care.