Overview Head trauma is an injury that affects the brain / skull Injuries range from minor to serious Head injury may be 'closed' or 'penetrating' 'Closed'-when head hits against a blunt object These injuries lead to concussion 'Penetrating' - an object penetrates skull and enters brain Causes Road traffic accidents Accidents at home / work Assault Fall Sports Symptoms Loss of consciousness - for short or long duration Bleeding Vomiting Fluid discharge from nose Loss of hearing, vision, taste, smell Speech-related problems Irregular heart beat Seizures Paralysis Coma Change in personality Mental health-related problems Treatment For mild injury- Apply ice to injured area to minimize swelling The size of the bump is not related to the severity of injury Observe the patient carefully for signs of bleeding For moderate to severe injury- Check the patient's breathing pattern If necessary do Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) In case of bleeding, press area with a clean cloth If the cloth soaks, place a fresh cloth over the first one Do not remove debris from the wound If person is vomiting turn on the side and lower the head To minimize spine injury - hold head, neck and body in one line Immobilize the patient If unconscious, treat it like a spinal injury Keep the head in alignment with spine Get immediate medical help Consult a Doctor When the following occur seek medical help- Bleeding Fluid discharge from nose, mouth, ears Vomiting Loss of consciousness Confusion / Restlessness / Irritability Slurred speech / Convulsion Blurred Vision Low breathing Low blood pressure / Severe headache Fracture / Stiff neck Loss of sensory abilities Inability to move one or more limbs Steps to Avoid Avoid shaking or moving a person who has head injuries Avoid washing the wound or removing debris Do not remove helmet in case of head injury Do not consume alcohol immediately after a head injury Do not pick up a fallen child with head injury Prevention Do not indulge in drunken driving Practice safe methods while driving / sporting / other activities Always follow safety rules Supervise the activities of children
