Bumps and blows to the head - what to do

Active young children hit their head frequently, for example when they fall down. Most of the time these bumps and blows to the head are not serious and cause no harm. However, sometimes a more severe blow can lead to complications. These complications can arise immediately, or up to 72 hours after the bump or blow to the head.

You can also call Info-Santé at any time by dialling 8-1-1 if you have any concerns.

What to do

If any of the situations described in the red box on the next page apply to your child, see a doctor or go to the emergency room right away.

If your child is behaving normally and is not displaying any of the symptoms listed in the red box, keep a close eye on them.

In the first 6 hours after the blow to the head – If your child wants to sleep, let them, but wake them up every two to three hours to make sure they are reacting normally. If they are still reacting normally after six hours, you can let them sleep as they usually would.

In the first 72 hours after the blow to the head – If your child has any of the symptoms described in the red box, see a doctor.

See a doctor or go to the emergency room right away in any of the following situations:

  • Your child is less than 3 months old.
  • Your child has lost consciousness.
  • They are semi-conscious, disoriented, or behaving strangely (e.g., they are difficult to wake, very irritable, do not make eye contact, or display some other behaviour you find troubling).
  • They are convulsing, very agitated, or shaking.
  • They have trouble moving an arm or a leg, have trouble walking, or lack coordination.
  • They have a lump or deformation in the scalp area (on the top, back, or side of their head).
  • They fell from a height of more than 0.9 metre (3 feet) or 5 steps.
  • Their head was hit very hard or hit by a fast moving object.
  • They have vomited more than once.
  • A bruise appears behind their ear or under their eye.
  • There is a clear or reddish discharge from their ear.

Call 9-1-1 if the situation seems serious and urgent enough that you need an ambulance.

Last updated:

Themes