A Pediatrician’s Guide to Head Injuries
Bumps and bonks happen—especially when you’ve got a curious toddler or an active preschooler. As a pediatrician, I get asked all the time: "When should I worry about a head bump?" Let’s break it down in a calm, practical way so you know what’s normal, what’s not, and when to call your pediatrician.
When to Worry After a Head Bump
If your child hits their head and shows any of the following symptoms, call your pediatrician right away or go to the ER:
Repeated vomiting
Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
Seizures or twitching
Trouble walking, talking, or staying awake
One pupil larger than the other
Clear fluid or blood draining from ears or nose
Acting very confused or unlike themselves
Excessive sleepiness you can’t wake them from
These symptoms could signal a concussion or more serious head injury. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s always better to check in.
What’s Usually Normal (and Safe to Monitor at Home)
A visible bump or goose egg (especially on the forehead)
A short cry or brief fussing, followed by quick return to baseline
Minor bruising or scalp swelling
Sleeping more than usual (as long as they wake easily and are acting normally when awake)
Fun fact: Scalp injuries often look worse than they are because the area is rich in blood vessels. A forehead bump can swell up quickly and look scary—but it’s usually not serious.
What About Letting Them Sleep After a Head Bump?
You don’t need to keep your child awake after a head injury if:
They were acting normal before falling asleep,
They had no red flag symptoms, and
They’re waking easily and behaving normally when awake.
Instead, monitor them for changes and trust your gut. If something feels off—even if it’s subtle—reach out.
Do I Need to Ice the Bump?
Yes, icing the area for 15–20 minutes at a time during the first few hours can help reduce swelling. Use a cold pack wrapped in a cloth or towel (never directly on skin), and offer lots of snuggles.
When in Doubt, Have a Pediatrician You Can Text
Head bumps can be nerve-wracking—but they don’t have to send you into a panic spiral. With Curitas Pediatrics, families have direct access to a trusted pediatrician who can guide you through moments like this.
Whether it's a forehead goose egg or something more serious, you're never left to guess.
Need a pediatrician who’s just a message away?
With Curitas Pediatrics, you’ll get peace of mind when you need it most. Our concierge families get direct access to Dr. Alex—no waiting rooms, no phone tag, just expert care from someone who knows your child.
Follow us on Instagram @CuritasPediatrics and check out the Ask Dr. Alex series!
