Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
99 Year Old Mother Fell And Hit The Back Of
Question: 99 year old mother fell and hit the back of her head/neck. Soft tissue swelled up immediately, we are applying an ice pack; swelling has gone down a bit but lump is still there. She is conscious, can see, does not seem to be nauseated or have a headache. No blood. Should we call 911, wait and see if the swelling goes down further, or ? Other symptoms we should look for?
Brief Answer:
Probably no need to call 911, I recommend to monitor her for new symptoms.
Detailed Answer:
Hello dear and welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
I'm sorry for your mother's accident.
Head trauma is a common concern in elderly.
You should not be worried about the lump, it is as normal as it can be.
Scalp have a high blood supply, and injury to these areas often results in bruising or swelling.
In your mother case the injury seems mild, so there is no need to call 911.
If she develops other symptoms such as:
abnormal breathing.
bleeding or clear fluid from the mouth, nose or ear.
pupils of unequal size.
neck stiffness
you should call 911 for further evaluation.
Meanwhile, I recommend using anti-inflammatory medication in case of pain such as Ibuprofen 400 mg three times a day.
I also recommend using cold compresses at the area to reduce the swelling.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Probably no need to call 911, I recommend to monitor her for new symptoms.
Detailed Answer:
Hello dear and welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
I'm sorry for your mother's accident.
Head trauma is a common concern in elderly.
You should not be worried about the lump, it is as normal as it can be.
Scalp have a high blood supply, and injury to these areas often results in bruising or swelling.
In your mother case the injury seems mild, so there is no need to call 911.
If she develops other symptoms such as:
abnormal breathing.
bleeding or clear fluid from the mouth, nose or ear.
pupils of unequal size.
neck stiffness
you should call 911 for further evaluation.
Meanwhile, I recommend using anti-inflammatory medication in case of pain such as Ibuprofen 400 mg three times a day.
I also recommend using cold compresses at the area to reduce the swelling.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Remy Koshy
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
