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Head Injury, Minor

Care at Home

Treatment of Minor Cuts, Scratches and Scrapes (abrasions):
- Apply direct pressure for 10 minutes to stop any bleeding.
- Wash the wound with soap and water for 5 minutes.
- For any dirt, scrub it gently with a washcloth.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment daily.
Treatment of Bruise or Hematoma ("goose egg"):
- Apply an ice bag or massage the area with ice for 20 minutes each hour for 4 consecutive hours. (20 minutes of ice bag massage followed by 40 minutes of rest for 4 hours in a row).
- 48 hours after the injury, use local heat for 10 minutes 3 times each day to help reabsorb the blood.
Observation: The head-injured person should be observed closely during the first 2 hours following the injury. The head-injured person should be awakened every 4 hours for the first 24 hours; check for the ability to walk and talk. Some mild headache, mild dizziness and nausea are common.
Diet: Clear fluids to drink at first, in case of vomiting. May resume a regular diet after 2 hours.
Pain Medication: For pain relief, take acetaminophen every 4-6 hours (e.g., Tylenol; adult dosage 650 mg) OR ibuprofen every 6-8 hours (e.g., Advil, Motrin; adult dosage 400 mg).
- Do not take ibuprofen if you have stomach problems, kidney disease, are pregnant, or have been told by your doctor to avoid this type of anti-inflammatory drug. Do not take ibuprofen for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
- Do not take acetaminophen if you have liver disease.
- Read the package instructions thoroughly on all medications that you take.
Expected Course: Most head trauma only causes an injury to the scalp. Pain and swelling usually begin to improve 2 or 3 days after an injury. Swelling is usually gone in 7 days. Pain may take 1-2 weeks to completely resolve.
IF your symptoms become worse: Review Should I Call? recommendations.