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Head injury and skull fracture (traumatic brain injury)

Also called: Head injury, traumatic brain injury, TBI, skull fracture

An injury to the head that can range from a mild bump or concussion to a skull fracture or bleeding in the brain. Warning signs need emergency care.

Emergency signsPassing out, repeated vomiting, confusion, worsening headache
Blood thinnersAlways get checked

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Head injury
  • Recent head injury

Less common

  • Headache
  • Dizziness

Look up a symptom: Headache

When to get medical care

Call 911Passing out, seizure, repeated vomiting, one pupil larger, clear fluid from nose or ears, or worsening headache: call 911.
Get care todayHead injury on blood thinners or in older adults.
See a doctor soonLasting symptoms.

Causes

Falls, crashes, sports.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Older adults
  • Children

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A CT may be needed.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • CT:

Treatment

Watch closely for 24 hours.

Self-care

  • Rest
  • Have someone stay with you

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Acetaminophen
HeadacheAvoid aspirin and ibuprofen at first.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

  • Helmets
  • Seat belts

Which doctor treats this

  • Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
  • They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Never return to sports the same day as a head injury.
  • Go back to school first, with breaks and a lighter workload if needed.
  • Return to sports step by step only after a doctor clears you and symptoms are gone.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most mild injuries heal.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Head injury and skull fracture (traumatic brain injury)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.