A head injury happens when there is a strong hit or blow to the head. This can hurt the brain in different ways, such as causing bruising, swelling, bleeding, or even damage from something piercing the skull. Some head injuries are mild, while others can be very serious and life-threatening.
You can ask your own question to a licensed healthcare provider here for free. It may take up to 7 days to get an answer. If you want a consultation in minutes, book now with Hope+ our premium and best health consultation service in Uganda.
What Causes Head Injuries?
In Uganda, common causes of head injuries include:
- Road traffic accidents
- Physical assault
- Falls from a height
- Blows to the head from objects or accidents
What Are the Signs of a Head Injury?
Some head injuries are closed (no visible cut) while others are open (with a cut or exposed tissue). Signs you might notice include:
- Swelling or a lump on the head
- A soft or sunken area on the skull
- Black eyes (bruising around the eyes)
- Bleeding or clear fluid coming from the nose or ears, which may be a sign of a serious skull fracture
Symptoms of a Severe Head Injury
- Confusion, drowsiness, or not waking up properly
- Seizures (fits)
- Changes in pupil size or how they react to light
- Weakness or numbness in parts of the body
Symptoms of a Mild Head Injury (Concussion)
- Brief loss of consciousness (less than 5 minutes)
- Short-term memory loss about the event
- Headache, dizziness, or feeling sick
- These symptoms usually improve within 4 hours, but should be monitored closely
Why Even a Mild Head Injury Can Be Serious
Even if the injury seems small, there can still be hidden brain damage. Warning signs that a mild injury may be more serious include:
- Worsening headache
- Repeated vomiting
- Confusion that doesn’t go away
- Fits
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- Trouble speaking or understanding
- Unusual behaviour
When to See a Doctor Immediately
Go to a health facility right away if:
- The person is very drowsy or unresponsive
- They have bleeding or fluid from the ears or nose
- They have trouble seeing, speaking, or moving
- They had a seizure after the injury
- They are vomiting repeatedly
- They are a child, elderly, or have a bleeding disorder
How Head Injuries Are Checked
- The health worker will check the level of alertness and brain function
- A CT scan (if available) can show bleeding, swelling, or fractures
- Other injuries from the accident will also be checked
Treatment for Head Injuries
- Rest and careful monitoring for mild injuries
- Hospital care and close observation for moderate or severe injuries
- Stitches or surgery for open wounds if needed
- Antibiotics for open head injuries before referral to a specialist
- Oxygen and fluids in severe cases
- Referral to a hospital with a neurosurgeon for serious injuries
What NOT to Do After a Head Injury
- Do not give strong painkillers like opioids unless prescribed in hospital
- Do not give medicines like ibuprofen or aspirin right after injury, as they may increase bleeding risk
- Do not leave the person alone for the first 24 hours if the injury was significant
Preventing Head Injuries in Uganda
- Drive carefully and follow road safety rules
- Always wear a seatbelt in cars
- Wear a helmet when riding a bicycle or motorcycle
- Avoid risky activities like climbing trees without safety precautions
- Wear protective headgear when working in dangerous environments
Head injuries can be unpredictable. Even when they look mild, they can become serious quickly. Always get checked by a health worker if you are unsure. Early treatment can save lives.
