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Head injuries are explained by doctors at Great Ormond Street Hospital, in our A to Z series on child health Head injuries

Head injuries

Head injuries are extremely common in young children and usually result from accidents. While frightening for the carer, they are rarely serious or have any long-lasting effect.

Head injuries are classified as external or internal injuries. With serious internal head injuries, the main risk is bleeding or swelling inside the skull, which could cause a blood clot and result in brain damage. It is, therefore, vital to take immediate action if you suspect that a child in your care has an internal injury.

Symptoms

External head injury

Mild external head injuries are usually not serious and most do not need medical treatment. The symptoms include:

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