First Aid for Minor Head Injuries (Bumps and Falls)
December 02 2025
3 min reading time
Minor head bumps and falls are very common — especially in children, sports, workplaces and during everyday activities at home. Most minor head injuries cause short-lasting discomfort, swelling or bruising. Simple first aid steps can help provide comfort while you monitor how the person feels.
This guide explains how minor head injuries happen, what signs to look out for and what first aid steps may help. It also includes tips on preparing your first aid kit.
For soft tissue injuries, see our sprains and strains guide .
Common Types of Minor Head Injuries
Type
What It Means
Common Causes
Bump / Bruise Soft swelling or tenderness on the surface.
Bumping into objects, falls, sports.
Grazes / Minor Cuts Small scrapes or scratches on the skin.
Falls on hard surfaces.
Soft Tissue Impact Discomfort around the forehead, scalp or temples.
Playground accidents, household bumps.
Common Signs of a Minor Head Injury
Mild swelling
Small bump on the head
Tenderness
Mild headache
Small graze or bruise
Feeling shaken or startled
First Aid Steps for Minor Head Injuries
Help the person sit down and rest.
Use something cool on the bump such as a wrapped cold pack.
Clean small grazes gently with water or wipes.
Apply a soft dressing if there is a small graze.
Encourage the person to rest for a short period.
For grazes or small cuts, see our minor cuts first aid guide .
When Further Advice May Be Needed
Further advice may be needed if someone shows:
Repeated vomiting
Difficulty responding normally
Increasing drowsiness
Unusual behaviour
A worsening headache
Useful First Aid Kit Items for Minor Head Injuries
Cold packs
Cleansing wipes
Soft gauze pads
Small dressings
Gloves
Waste bag for used materials
To upgrade your kit, browse our UK first aid kits or see our refills guide .
How Minor Head Injuries Commonly Happen
Slipping or tripping
Bumping into furniture or doors
Football, rugby or playground activities
Cycling or scootering
DIY tasks at home
Items falling from shelves
For family preparation, see our baby & child first aid guide .
Reducing the Risk of Head Bumps
Use protective equipment for sports
Keep floors clear of clutter
Install corner guards on furniture in family homes
Encourage safe play in gardens and playgrounds
Store heavy items on lower shelves
Minor Head Injuries — FAQ
Should the person lie down?
Sitting upright and resting is usually more comfortable.
Should I use ice directly on the skin?
Use a cold pack wrapped in cloth, not ice directly on the skin.
Can someone sleep after a minor head injury?
Rest is helpful. Monitor how the person is responding when they are awake.
What if there is a small cut?
Clean the area gently and cover with a soft dressing if needed.
Should I press firmly on a bump?
Gentle pressure can help when using something cool, but avoid pressing firmly.
