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Head Injuries
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Injuries Wounds

Head Injuries

Head injuries range from minor bumps to life‑threatening trauma. Recognizing warning signs and seeking prompt care can prevent serious complications.

Overview

Head injuries can be open (penetrating) or closed (non‑penetrating). While the skull is a strong shield, injuries such as skull fractures, concussions, and traumatic brain injury can still occur.

Causes

Common causes include falls, motor vehicle accidents, violence, and sports injuries.

Warning Signs of a Moderate or Severe Head Injury

Seek immediate medical help if the injured person exhibits any of the following:

  • A headache that worsens or persists
  • Repeated vomiting or nausea
  • Convulsions or seizures
  • An inability to wake up
  • Dilated (enlarged) pupil in one or both eyes
  • Slurred speech
  • Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
  • Loss of coordination
  • Increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation

Diagnosis

Doctors perform a neurologic exam and use imaging tests to determine the type and severity of the injury.

Treatment

Management depends on the injury’s type and severity, ranging from observation to surgical intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Concussion recovery varies; most people improve within a few days to a week, but some may take several weeks. Gradual return to normal activities is recommended, starting with light cognitive tasks and progressing to full duties only after symptoms have resolved. A healthcare provider can guide a safe return-to-activity plan.
Look for visible swelling or bruising over the skull, a visible deformity or indentation, persistent severe headache, vomiting, dizziness, or any neurological deficits such as weakness or numbness. If any of these occur, seek medical evaluation promptly.
If you notice a headache that worsens or persists, repeated vomiting or nausea, seizures, an inability to wake up, a dilated pupil, slurred speech, weakness or numbness in the limbs, loss of coordination, or increased confusion or agitation, seek emergency care immediately. These signs may indicate a moderate or severe head injury that requires urgent evaluation.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen can be used if no contraindications exist, but avoid nonsteroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin because they increase bleeding risk. Always follow the dosage instructions and monitor for worsening symptoms; if any new or worsening signs appear, seek medical care.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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