Home 9 BABY & TODDLER 9 When is a Toddler Head Bump More Than Just a Bruise?
Toddler with bumped head and parent putting a sticking plaster on the bump

When is a Toddler Head Bump More Than Just a Bruise?

April 25, 2024

‘Just a bump?’: The red flag signs to look out for the next time your toddler bumps their head.

With the highest incidences of mild brain injuries sustained by children occurring between the ages of 0-4, it makes sense that many parents are armed with more information about the causes and signs to be aware off. The thing is-all children will fall and bump their head at some point: they need to explore and develop their safety behaviours, so we don’t want to be one of those helicopter parent that stop the important stages of learning and development! However, there are few key things to consider if you are concerned that the head bump maybe a little more serious than a bruise may appear.

Why might your toddler bump your head?

Falls

One of the leading causes of head injuries in children under 10 is falls. Whether from playground equipment, stairs, furniture, or uneven surfaces, falls can result in head trauma if precautions are not taken to prevent accidents. Falls don’t have to be high either, they might be stairs, steps and forward falls into cupboard doors.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Unfortunately, motor vehicle accidents remain a significant cause of head injuries in children. Collisions, sudden stops, or being unrestrained in a moving vehicle can result in head injuries.

Playground Incidents

Playgrounds, while fun and engaging, can also be sites of head injuries for children. Falls from equipment, collisions with other children, or equipment malfunctions can lead to head trauma if caution is not exercised.

Home Accidents

Household accidents, such as tripping over toys, bumping into furniture, or encountering sharp objects, can also cause head injuries in children. Creating a safe home environment and supervising playtime can mitigate these risks. Remember we don’t want to wrap them in cotton wool.

How to spot the signs of concussion in your toddler

toddler lying on bed with a bumped head

Whilst these incidents can be common, when it comes to recognising potential signs of concussion in your child (or others), vigilance and awareness are paramount. As a parent, being attuned to subtle changes in behaviour, cognition, and physical well-being can make a significant difference in promptly identifying and addressing a possible concussion and differentiating it from those harmless bumps and tumbles.

Here some key things to look out for and, if you spot them, make sure you seek medical intervention as soon as possible. Even if there’s nothing seriously wrong, when it comes to head injury, it’s definitely better to be safe than sorry!

Physical Symptoms

This tends to be the most obvious and one we are told to look for as parents. Watch for physical changes such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or noise, and balance issues. Notice any changes in your child’s vision, including blurred vision or seeing “stars” which could indicate a concussion.

Cognitive Changes

Be mindful of cognitive challenges like confusion, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, slowed thinking processes, and difficulty recalling information. Any noticeable changes in your child’s mental alertness or responsiveness should be taken seriously. You know you’re child, if something seems amiss, get checked.

Emotional Shifts

Pay attention to emotional fluctuations, mood swings, irritability, increased anxiety, and feelings of sadness or frustration. Emotional changes post-injury can often be indicative of a concussion and should not be overlooked, especially if they are out of the norm for your child. If your child is usually like this, there may be a change in the other direction.

Behavioural Differences

Observe any alterations in your child’s behaviour, such as increased restlessness, agitation, acting out of character, or changes in sleeping patterns. Unexplained shifts in behaviour can be a red flag..

Communication Challenges

Notice if your child experiences difficulties with communication, such as slurred speech, trouble finding the right words, or challenges expressing thoughts clearly. Communication issues post-injury warrant immediate attention and evaluation.

Physical Coordination Problems

Be aware of any changes in your child’s coordination, balance, or motor skills. Dizziness, stumbling, clumsiness, and difficulty walking straight could indicate a concussion-related issue.

Sleep Disturbances

Keep an eye on any disruptions in your child’s sleep patterns, including excessive fatigue, difficulty falling asleep, or frequent waking during the night. Sleep disturbances post-concussion can impact recovery and overall well-being. There is no longer advice to keep a child awake after a head injury, just keep an eye on excessive sleepiness.

Seizures or Loss of Consciousness

Seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences seizures, loss of consciousness, or prolonged unconsciousness following a head
injury. These symptoms require urgent medical advice and intervention.

Persistent Symptoms

If your child continues to experience symptoms days after a head injury, such as persistent headaches, ongoing dizziness, or cognitive difficulties, consult a medical professional for further assessment and management of potential post concussion symptoms.

Behavioural Observations Over Time

Monitor your child’s behaviour and symptoms over time, noting any improvements, exacerbations, or new developments. Keeping a record of changes can aid in providing comprehensive information to medical providers for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Whilst toddler head bumps are very common, staying vigilant and informed about the signs of concussion and mild brain injury in your child is crucial for early detection and getting your child any help they need. By closely monitoring physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioural
changes, and seeking medical intervention when necessary, you can ensure the well-being and safety of your child following a head injury. Do let children be children- just be aware of any out of the ordinary and seek medical advice.

Read more about toddler health and well being here.


About the Author

Expert in toddler head bumpsNatalie Mackenzie is a cognitive rehabilitation therapist who has 20 years of experience in supporting families with brain injury. She also supports individuals with fatigue and offers cognitive assessments.

For more information on Natalie’s work visit: https://www.thebraininjurytherapist.co.uk/

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