Head Injury, Age 4 And Older: Check Your Symptoms

Content provided by Healthwise

When to See a Doctor

Do you have a headache after a head injury?

See significance of a headache if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Do you have a severe headache?

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had a moderate headache that has not improved within 24 hours, but you do not have any other symptoms?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had a mild headache that has not improved within 4 days after a recent head injury?

You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had headaches on and off for 2 weeks or longer after a head injury?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	July 09, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer