Injuries to the head can cause damage to the skull, scalp, or brain.

The brain rests inside the skull protected by a cushion of soft tissue called the meninges.

There are several different types of head injuries, and it’s important to learn the signs.

Paramedic working on man with a head injury

Caiaimage / Trevor Adeline / Getty Images

If skull fracture is suspected,call 911 immediately.

The increased pressure causes more damage to the brain, which causes more swelling, and so on.

Support the victim’s head in the position you found it.

Bones of the spine (vertebra) can be injured from movement of the head during trauma.

Vomiting can lead to problems with the victim’s airway.

It is a myth thatclosed head injury victims should be kept awake.

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