b'ChapterProblems to watch out for over the next day or two:Headaches - A child may experience headaches. Doctors advice/parents consent should be sought to administer paracetamol every 4 to 6 hours to relieve pain.Vomiting - The child may have vomited once but if it continues, you must refer to a doctor.Drowsiness - The child may become sleepy after a head injury. There is no need to keep the child awake. If the child wants to go to sleep, this is fine, however wake the child every half to one hour to check their condition and general well being. Continue to do this until the child is no longer drowsy and has been awake, orientated and alert for at least 4 hours. To check alertness/orientation, ask the child:What is your name?What is my name?Do you know where you are?What day is it today?Where do you go to school?Or if the child is very young: Are the responses/reactions appropriate/normal?Eye opening, smiling, reaching out for their dummy? Are they interactive?If you have difficulty waking the child, call Ambulance 000.Follow upMany signs and symptoms resulting from a minor head injury can be difficult to detect. Over the next few weeks you may notice:Irritability, mood swings, aggression, tiredness, confusion, restlessness.Concentration problems, general behavioural changes.See a doctor and discuss these signs and symptoms.See a doctor immediately or refer to medical facility if the child has:Unusual/abnormal behaviour.Severe or persistent headaches that are not relieved by paracetamol.On going irritability/agitation (particulary in a baby).Frequent nausea/vomiting.Escape of blood or watery fluid ears, nose or mouth.A seizure or spasm of the face, arms or legs.Difficulty in waking up or staying awake.Or if you are worried or unsure.222 Common Illness and Ailments'