Fell And Hit Head. Have Swelling. What Should I Do?

Posted on Sat, 19 Oct 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 19 Oct 2013 Answered on

Sat, 9 Nov 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : hi doc, i fell down in the bathroom and i hit my head and its swelling what should i do?

Answered by Dr. Kerry Pottinger (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Rest and pain-killers at present.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic.
The concern is that you may have suffered a significant head injury. First you can apply a cold compress to the affected area that is swelling. Sit down and rest.
Symptoms that would need you to visit the ED would be a violent headache, loss of consciousness, persistent vomiting, blurred vision, difficulty in speaking or staying awake, bleeding from one or both ears, loss of balance.
The fact that you are able to submit this question would indicate that you are OK at present. However, if any of these symptoms occur later then you should act on them.
Take paracetamol and ibuprofen if you have pain.
I hope this helps you. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB FRCA

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar