Description Pediatric head trau...
Description
Pediatric head trauma occurs when a child bumps their head. Usually, the trauma is minimal and only results in mild symptoms such as a bruise or headache. In other cases, the child may experience symptoms of a concussion such as a loss of consciousness, vomiting or confusion. Concussions usually resolve over a short period of time and are rarely the cause of long term problems. However, if a child experiences multiple concussions, they are at risk for more serious brain damage. In cases of severe head trauma, there may be bleeding in the brain or a skull fracture.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include headache, loss of consciousness, nausea/vomiting, dizziness or seizures. Other symptoms may include aggressive or irrational behavior, slurred speech, numbness or weakness.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed. It may be determined that your child requires a CT scan or MRI to look for more serious disease.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Specialists:
Pediatrics, Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed. It may be determined that your child requires a CT scan or MRI to look for more serious disease.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Specialists:
Pediatrics, Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease. Most head injuries will only require a period of observation and treatment of symptoms such as headache and nausea. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the preferred medication for pain because it does not increase the risk of bleeding. In more severe cases where there is bleeding in the brain or a fracture of the skull, observation in the hospital will be necessary. If brain injury is severe or there is bleeding within or around the brain, your child may require a machine to help them breath, anti-seizure medications and possibly surgery.