HEAD INJURY

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR HEAD INJURY

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

Persisting neurological symptoms (see above)
Seizure (convulsion) occurred
Unconscious for more than 1 minute
Neck pain occurring after head injury
Penetrating head injury (e.g. knife, gun shot wound, metal object)
Major bleeding (actively bleeding or spurting) that can't be stopped
FIRST AID for Bleeding: Apply direct pressure to the entire wound with a clean cloth.

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

You feel weak or very sick
Neurological Symptom (as defined above) and now fine
Knocked unconscious for less than 1 minute
Blurred vision persists longer than 5 minutes
Severe headache
Can't remember what happened (amnesia)
Vomiting
Watery fluid dripping from the nose or ear
Bleeding that won't stop after 10 minutes of direct pressure
Skin is split open or gaping and may need stitches
Large swelling
Large dent in scalp
Severe force or speed involved (e.g. auto accident, fall from great height, blows from hard ball or club)
You are taking the blood thinner coumadin or have a history of a bleeding disorder

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If:

You think you need to be seen
Headache persists longer than 3 days

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home If

Minor head injury and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

See Other Topics:

Neck Pain

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