The years between age one and four might as well be dubbed “the time of unexplained head bruises.” Toddlers are constantly taking tumbles and bumping their young heads on everything from coffee tables to the floor. More often than not, these injuries are superficial, but sometimes children experience serious damage.

When your child bumps their head, here’s when you need to start worrying and seek medical treatment:

• When a goose-egg stops feeling hard. Large head bumps that begin to feel squishy can be indicative of a larger issue and require professional assessment.
• When kids act sleepy or unusual. Feelings of drowsiness, nausea, or loss of appetite can be symptoms of a traumatic brain injury. Clumsiness, unceasing crying, or changes in vision are also concerning symptoms.
• When the child loses consciousness, either briefly or for a long time. A loss of consciousness should always be read as a serious sign of damage. Immediately take the child to an emergency room for medical treatment.
• When the toddler complains of a headache. Long-lasting or terrible headaches should be addressed with a trip to the ER to ensure that nothing is wrong beneath the skull.
• When the head injury won’t stop bleeding. Many scalp injuries will bleed, but you should be concerned if the blood won’t stop after fifteen minutes or more.
• When clear fluid or blood comes out of the child’s nose or ears. This is definitely not a normal occurrence, even after a bad fall, so seek medical assistance quickly.

If you or someone you know has a young child who suffered a traumatic brain injury, join TryMunity today. This non-profit organization works to increase awareness and provide support for those who have suffered from a TBI. You can share your knowledge, build relationships, and receive support from others who have been in your shoes. Sign up now at www.trymunity.com.