Sometimes when our nieces and nephews are left in our care, stuff happens. They get sick, they get hurt, and issues of concern arise. The following are hypothetical questions that might occur while you are taking care of the kids.  Dr. Stephanie's responses should be read for informational and educational purposes only. While Dr. Stephanie is a real pediatrician, we strongly urge you to seek professional medical advice from your health care provider when a real health concern happens. And in case of emergency, call 911!

My little terrible-two year old niece was running in the house she fell and bumped her head on a table and now there’s a bump. She seems to be ok, but how do I know there’s no concussion?

When an active child hits their head the most important thing to notice is if she cries instantly.  Any signs that she lost consciousness are more concerning of more significant head injury.  If she cries right away and is back to herself you needn’t worry.

Watch for these signs:

Any change in her behavior
Vomiting
Increasing lethargy
Abnormal walk
Continued complaints that she feels funny or continued headache.

If any of the above signs are there, then you should take her to a physician urgently as she may have more significant head trauma.