When a baby or young child suffers a head injury, the injuries’ impact can be devastating. Head injuries and fractures are the most common cause of long-term disability and death in children. Head injuries include bruises and bumps on the head, concussions, and fractured skull bones or open wounds. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are some of the most severe types of head injuries. Unfortunately, many head injuries are caused by car accidents, slip, fall accidents, or sports accidents that are entirely preventable.
Common Causes of Infant and Child Skull Fractures
Skull fractures are common injuries among babies and young children. Sadly, many skull fractures are caused by child abuse and accidental falls. Falls are the most common cause of unintentional, non-fatal injuries in babies under the age of 1. They are also the leading cause of all visits to hospital emergency departments across all ages. When a baby or young child falls and hits his or her head from .9 meters, that baby has a high probability of fracturing the skulls. Children do not need to fall from great heights to suffer a head injury. On the contrary, babies who fall from a height of .6 to .9 meters onto concrete have a high probability of skull fractures. Even when babies fall onto the carpet, they have a risk of fracturing their skulls.
Consequences of Head Injuries and Fractures in Children
While most mild falls do not require medical treatment or cause severe harm, falls remain the leading cause of emergency room department visits due to traumatic brain injury. Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury or concussion usually begin to present themselves within 24 to 48 hours of the fall or accident that caused the head injury. Symptoms of brain injuries include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Fluid or blood draining from the ears or nose
- Seizure
- Suspected spinal cord or neck injury
- Difficulty breathing
- Uncontrolled bleeding from the head wound
- A bulging spot or dent occurs on the skull
- Excessive swelling or bruising
- Vomiting repeatedly
- Difficulty talking or staying away, or sleepiness
- Grouchiness or change in mood
Long-Term Impacts of Head Injuries in Children
Many head injuries are curable without any long-term difficulties. Unfortunately, there is a possible correlation between mental health issues, disability, and mortality, and traumatic brain injuries in childhood. Children who experience multiple brain injuries are at a higher risk of symptoms. Children diagnosed with mild to severe traumatic brain injuries may suffer mental disorders, intellectual disabilities, depression/anxiety, or even seizures.
Recovering Compensation After a Head Injury
If someone else’s negligence or recklessness caused your child’s head injury, you could be entitled to compensation. The most important thing you can do after seeking medical treatment is to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who will review your case and advise you of your legal options. Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation.
