{"id":50426,"date":"2025-04-25T21:27:51","date_gmt":"2025-04-26T01:27:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hancockhealth.org\/mayo-health-library\/bump-on-the-head-when-is-it-a-serious-head-injury\/"},"modified":"2026-02-04T11:41:28","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T16:41:28","slug":"bump-on-the-head-when-is-it-a-serious-head-injury","status":"publish","type":"mayo","link":"https:\/\/www.hancockhealth.org\/zh\/mayo-health-library\/bump-on-the-head-when-is-it-a-serious-head-injury\/","title":{"rendered":"Bump on the head: When is it a serious head injury?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Probably not. Head trauma from play or sports is a common concern for parents, but rarely does a bump on the head result in serious injury.<\/p>\n

The forehead and scalp have a large blood supply. Injury to these areas often results in bleeding under the skin. When the bleeding is in just one area, it causes bruising and swelling, known as a hematoma. Keep in mind that even a minor head bump can cause a large swelling.<\/p>\n

The speed, momentum and size of the children involved, such as teenagers versus young children, can increase the possibility of a serious injury. The forces involved, such as impact with a concrete floor or hard surface, also can raise the risk of a serious injury.<\/p>\n

When to see a doctor<\/h3>\n

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you call a member of your child’s healthcare team for anything more than a light bump on your child’s head.<\/p>\n

If your child remains alert, moves as usual and responds to you, the injury is probably mild. A mild injury usually doesn’t need further testing.<\/p>\n

Occasionally, a blow to the head may be bad enough to cause bleeding in or around the brain. This type of bleeding can cause an intracranial hematoma, a serious condition that puts pressure on the brain.<\/p>\n

See a healthcare professional within 1 to 2 days<\/strong> of a head injury with ongoing symptoms, even if emergency care isn’t required.<\/p>\n

Seek emergency medical attention<\/strong> if your child experiences:<\/p>\n