Compression may develop up to twenty-four hours after the casualty has apparently recovered. With compression, the pupils of the eyes may be of differing sizes, there will be a diminished pulse rate and a deteriorating level of consciousness, an intense headache, noisy breathing, paralysis, raised temperature. The casualty should be removed to hospital immediately. This condition requires urgent medical treatment. Most head injuries in children are minor.
Lacerations bleed freely and seem to be worse than they are.
A fall of more than 3 ft. It is very common for children who sustain head injuries, to go pale and vomit immediately and subsequently to be sleepy. This should not cause undue alarm. If in doubt, call an Ambulance. Swelling of the skull on either sides of the head, just above the ears, should be taken seriously and needs medical attention.