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Recent head injury

Also called: Head injury, concussion, hit my head

Most head bumps are minor, but a head injury can cause a concussion or bleeding in the brain. Watch closely for 24 to 48 hours. Loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, a worsening headache, confusion, weakness, or a seizure after a head injury needs 911. People on blood thinners and older adults should be checked even after a minor fall.

Watch for24 to 48 hours
Danger signsVomiting, confusion, worsening headache, sleepiness
Get checked ifOn blood thinners, over 65, or any danger sign
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

A concussion is a brain injury from a blow or jolt to the head. It can cause headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, memory problems, light sensitivity, and feeling 'foggy.' Most people recover within days to weeks with rest.

Bleeding inside the skull can develop hours after an injury. Older adults and people taking blood thinners are at higher risk even from a minor fall.

When to get medical care

Call 911Loss of consciousness, even briefly. Seizure. Repeated vomiting. A headache that gets worse. Confusion, slurred speech, unusual behavior, or very hard to wake. Weakness or numbness. Unequal pupils. Clear fluid or blood from the nose or ears. Neck pain after the injury.
Get care todayAny head injury in someone on blood thinners or over 65. A head injury in a baby, or a baby who won't stop crying. Dizziness, vomiting once, or memory loss about the injury.
See a doctor soonConcussion symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks. Trouble concentrating, sleeping, or mood changes after a head injury. Before returning to sports.

Causes

Common causes include falls, sports injuries, car and bike crashes, and assaults. Possible results include scalp bruises, concussion, skull fracture, and bleeding in or around the brain (subdural or epidural hematoma).

OwieClear has pages on 3 conditions that can cause recent head injury. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

What you can do at home

  • Have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours.
  • Rest your body and brain for 1 to 2 days, then slowly return to activities.
  • Limit screens if they make symptoms worse.
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Don't return to sports until cleared by a provider.
  • Ice a scalp bump.

Medicines

Acetaminophen can help a headache. Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin for the first day unless a provider says it's OK, because of bleeding risk.

At the doctor

The provider will check for signs of brain injury.

Questions you may be asked

  • How the injury happened
  • Loss of consciousness or memory loss
  • Vomiting, headache, or confusion
  • Blood thinners
  • Past concussions

The exam

A nerve exam, including thinking, balance, and eyes.

Tests

  • A head CT if there are warning signs
  • Concussion symptom checklists

Prevention

You can prevent head injuries.

  • Wear helmets for biking and sports
  • Wear seat belts
  • Prevent falls at home
  • Use car seats for children

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.