While children frequently fall, hit and get injured due to their energetic and curious nature, parents may be uncertain about whether these sudden accidents could be a sign of a serious problem. Pointing out that these accidents, especially head traumas, are very dangerous for children, Specialist from the Medicana Health Group Emergency Department. Dr. S. Nur Çetinkaya Bodur answered the questions of what to do when children hit their heads and in which cases to apply to the hospital.
Stating that head traumas are common in the first 7 years of age due to the fact that balance and protection mechanisms are not fully developed, Specialist from Medicana Konya Hospital Emergency Department. Dr. S. Nur Çetinkaya Bodur said, “The most common period of head trauma is the period between the ages of 2-7, which is the early childhood. In children in this age group, head trauma can often occur while playing. Children between the ages of 7-14 may experience more severe head traumas that cannot be predicted.
“Carefully observe the symptoms in the child to understand the severity of the trauma”
Stating that in order to understand the severity of the trauma, it is necessary to carefully observe the symptoms experienced by the child, Uzm. Dr. S. Nur Çetinkya Bodur noted that head traumas are generally evaluated in two main categories as mild traumas (such as concussion) and severe traumas. Uzm. Dr. S. Nur Çetinkaya Bodur said that mild head traumas may cause mild headache, short-term dizziness, drowsiness or fatigue, temporary memory loss (not remembering the moment of impact) and mild nausea. Noting that the symptoms of serious head traumas can be more pronounced and alarming, Specialist. Dr. S. Nur Çetinkaya Bodur emphasized that parents should apply to the hospital as soon as they suspect and listed the symptoms of serious head trauma as follows:
“Loss of consciousness; the child may faint or lose consciousness for more than a few seconds after hitting his/her head. Severe headache; a headache that does not go away or becomes increasingly severe may occur. Recurrent vomiting; more than one vomiting may be observed. Visible deformation; there may be physical symptoms such as swelling, bruising, open wounds or collapse of the head. Seizures; the child may develop seizure-like movements (uncontrolled contractions). Blurred consciousness or difficulty speaking; the child may have difficulty speaking or appear confused after hitting his/her head. Loss of balance or difficulty moving; the child may have difficulty walking or feel weak on one side of the body. Vision problems; double vision, blurred vision or sudden changes in vision may occur. Bleeding or leakage of brain fluid; blood or light-colored fluid may come out of the ear or nose.”
Speaking about the vital importance of carefully observing the child after a head trauma, Specialist. Prof. Dr. S. Nur Çetinkaya Bodur underlined that if any of these conditions are observed, a health institution should be consulted immediately and said, “Parents should correctly evaluate the symptoms and intervene in a timely manner, and in such accidents, it is vital to ensure that the child undergoes the necessary examinations and tests by going to an emergency room immediately. On the other hand, for mild traumas, careful monitoring and rest will usually suffice. It should not be forgotten that being cautious for the safety of children and acting quickly when necessary contributes to their healthy growth.
