You didn’t expect a small bump on the head to amount to much, but the symptoms that have resulted seem more dangerous than you thought. If you hit your head, no matter how hard, it’s a good idea to have yourself looked at by a medical professional.
Even minor head injuries result in symptoms that impact people’s daily lives. No, not every bump on the head is serious, but many of them are. Here are four symptoms to watch out for.
1. Look our for swelling
Even though swelling is normal following an injury, you have to remember that the swelling around the brain has nowhere to go. As a result, it puts pressure on the brain and causes damage that wasn’t there because of the injury itself. If you notice swelling, see a doctor to be safe.
2. Losing consciousness
A head injury is immediately an emergency if you or someone else loses consciousness. Disorientation or confusion may also result, all of which require attention.
3. Developing headaches
A headache after hitting your head is normal, after all, you’re bruised and swollen. What isn’t normal is a headache that is the worst you’ve ever had or one that persists. If you have a headache for two or more days, see a doctor.
4. Vomiting
Vomiting is a serious sign of a concussion or worse. If you or someone hurt on the job is throwing up after a head injury, call 911 or take him or her to the emergency room. This is just one symptom that could mean something is very wrong.
Head injuries are serious. Even minor injuries could result in time off work, lasting symptoms and the need for medical intervention. Don’t take the chance of letting an injury worsen, get medical attention when the injury happens.
