Minor head injuries are common in people of all ages and should not result in any permanent damage.
The symptoms of a minor head injury are usually mild and short lived. Symptoms may include:
- a bump or bruise on the head
- nausea (feeling sick)
- dizziness
However, with any head injury it is important to make sure that there are no symptoms of a severe head injury.
If there are serious symptoms go to the accident and emergency (A&E) department of your local hospital straight away or call 999 and ask for an ambulance. This is particularly important if you lose consciousness, even if it's only for a short period of time.
How common are head injuries?
Each year in England and Wales, around 700,000 people attend accident and emergency (A&E) departments with a head injury. Of these, 90% have only a minor head injury.
The most common causes of head injuries are falls, assaults and road traffic accidents. In the UK, 40-50% of people with head injuries are children. Children may be more likely to have a minor head injury because they have high energy levels and little sense of danger.
Read more information about causes of minor head injuries.
Treating a minor head injury
See your GP if you’re concerned about a minor head injury.
Otherwise, try not to be alone for the first 48 hours after the injury or, if your child has a minor head injury, continue to monitor them for any new symptoms. It is also important to rest and avoid aggravating the injury with stressful situations or contact sports until you or your child are fully recovered.
Mild headaches can be treated with painkillers such as paracetamol (always read the manufacturer’s instructions and never give aspirin to children under 16 years of age).
Read more information about treating a minor head injury.
Complications
Serious complications from a minor head injury are rare. One study of 200,000 children in England found that only 14 with minor head injuries required neurosurgery (surgery on the brain, spinal cord or nerves).
Possible complications include long-term headaches, memory loss or difficulty concentrating. Some people may experience long-term symptoms after a minor head injury that involves concussion, known as post-concussional syndrome (PCS).
Preventing a minor head injury
Although it can be difficult to predict or avoid a head injury, there are some steps you can take to help reduce the risk of more serious injury.
These include:
- wearing a safety helmet when cycling
- reducing hazards in the home that may cause a fall
- ‘childproofing’ your home
- using the correct safety equipment for work, sport and DIY
Read more information about preventing a minor head injury.
