Doctor Pham Van Tin, from the Neurology - Spine Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, stated this information. He added that many parents bring their children, typically between 4 months and 3 years old, to the hospital after falls from beds or hammocks. This is often the age when children begin to roll, crawl, or walk.

Most falls from heights under 1 m, where the child lands on their buttocks or feet and doesn't hit their head on a hard object, are unlikely to cause serious injuries. If the child cries briefly and then returns to normal, showing no signs of swelling, bruising, vomiting, or behavioral changes, the fall likely caused no harm. However, parents should monitor their child for at least 24 hours after a fall, limiting strenuous activity and observing for any unusual behavior, eating, or sleeping patterns.

Serious falls can result in soft tissue injuries, scalp hematomas, skull fractures, or, in more severe cases, intracranial bleeding, cerebral contusions, or broken collarbones, arms, legs, or dislocated joints. "Internal head injuries don't always have obvious symptoms and can easily be overlooked if parents aren't vigilant," said Doctor Tin.

A doctor at the Pediatrics Department examines a young patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

A doctor at the Pediatrics Department examines a young patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Concussions can affect a young child's actions and emotions. If the child is too young to speak, it can be difficult for parents to detect a brain injury. Doctor Tin advises parents to observe their child's facial expressions for any reactions. If the child shows signs of unconsciousness, fainting, or unresponsiveness for a few seconds after the fall, vomits repeatedly, cries inconsolably, sleeps excessively, is difficult to wake, or appears confused or has seizures, they should seek immediate medical attention.

After a fall, parents should quickly check the child's entire body for bleeding, swelling, or bone deformities. If a fracture or head injury is suspected, avoid immediately picking the child up. Apply a cold compress to any swollen or bruised areas to reduce pain. Note the time of the fall and any subsequent developments to share with a doctor if necessary.

Doctor Tin recommends that parents let their children sleep in cribs with high sides, avoid leaving babies unattended on beds, and use bed rails or barriers. Families should closely supervise children when they start rolling, crawling, and walking.

Thanh Ba