Care following a head injury

This leaflet is intended for people who have been assessed by a doctor or nurse practitioner following a head injury (and for their carers), but who have no signs of serious injury and have been discharged home. Always see a doctor or nurse if you are concerned about an injury. Minor head injury and knocks to the head are common and it would be normal to have a mild headache.

Following the injury, if the person is conscious (awake), and there is no deep cut or severe head damage, it is unusual for there to be any brain damage. However, sometimes a knock to the head can cause damage to the brain or to a blood vessel next to the brain. A damaged blood vessel may bleed into the brain or, more commonly, into the area between the brain and the skull (a subdural haemorrhage). This is uncommon, but can be serious as a build-up of blood can cause pressure on the brain.

Tips and general advice

• If at all possible, do not stay at home alone for the first 48 hours after being assessed for a head injury.
• Show a relative or friend this advice leaflet so they also know symptoms to look out for.
• Stay within easy reach of a telephone and medical help for the next few days.
• Do not drink alcohol for the next few days.
• Do not take sleeping tablets or sedatives unless prescribed by a doctor.
• Discuss with your doctor about playing contact sports such as rugby or football. It is often advised that you should not play contact sports for 3 weeks following a head injury.
• Do not drive, ride a motorcycle or bicycle, or operate machinery until you feel completely recovered.

Symptoms to be aware of

The following are symptoms which may appear after a head injury. If you experience any of these symptoms you should return to the nearest A&E without delay:

Headache

If a severe headache occurs and is not relieved with simple painkillers.

Blurred vision

If you have problems focusing your vision or start seeing double.

Drowsiness

If you find it difficult to stay awake and lose concentration.

Dizziness/weakness

If you become increasingly dizzy and find it difficult to walk steadily, or notice weakness in any of your limbs.

Nausea/vomiting

It is common to feel sick and possibly vomit immediately after a head injury. However, if you vomit after your discharge from hospital, you should return to hospital.

Confusion

Strange behaviour, any problems with understanding or speaking.

Convulsions (fits)

These are rare but can occur after a head injury.

Other symptoms that may occur

Some people develop some mild symptoms after a head injury that are not serious and usually go away within 2 weeks. These can include a mild headache, feeling a bit sick (without vomiting), being irritable and grumpy, tiredness, poor appetite and some difficulty concentrating.

These may develop just as a reaction to a knock on the head and not due to bleeding or serious injury. However, if you have any doubt about a symptom following a head injury, it is best to get it checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Also see a doctor if you feel that you have not completely recovered after 2 weeks.