Heads Should Be Held, Not Hurt

KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital - Child abuse remains one of the most urgent and heartbreaking issues in our society. Every day, innocent and fragile children suffer in silence—often at the hands of those meant to protect them. With increasing reports of physical harm, especially head injuries, Dr. Rakhee Yadav, Consultant Paediatrician at KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital, is sounding the alarm on the serious and long-term effects of such trauma.

“A strong blow to a child’s head can cause significant injury to the skull, bones in the neck and spinal cord. Children’s neck muscles are not yet strong enough to absorb sudden movements. Even a single hit can lead to long term damage,” she shared.

Brain injuries in children are especially dangerous because their brains are still developing. The effects can be long-lasting, involving not just the initial trauma but also swelling, inflammation, and disruption to normal brain growth. These can interfere with memory, learning, emotional regulation, and behaviour—especially if the injury occurs during key stages of development.

Dr. Rakhee has also stressed that even mild head injuries should never be taken lightly. “What seems like a small knock can result in serious consequences. A child’s brain is far more vulnerable than we often realise.”

She outlines potential outcomes of head trauma, including learning difficulties, physical impairments, vision and hearing problems, behavioural disorders, and in severe cases, conditions like Cerebral Palsy. “Some children may experience recurring seizures or, tragically, may not survive the injury,” she adds.

Internal injuries are equally alarming. “The head is made up of skin, skull, and brain. Trauma can damage any of these layers, leading to internal bleeding or skull fractures—sometimes without any visible signs. This is why no fall or hit should ever be dismissed.”

Dr. Rakhee urges parents to watch for critical warning signs such as fainting, vomiting more than once, seizures, weakness or numbness, confusion, memory loss, fluid from the nose or ears, or unequal pupil size. “These aren’t minor symptoms. They could signal a life-threatening condition. Immediate medical attention is essential.”

Beyond the physical, abuse leaves deep emotional scars. “Children who suffer abuse are at greater risk of anxiety, depression, and memory issues,” she says. “Some suppress the trauma, but it doesn’t disappear. It can affect their academic performance, friendships, and overall well-being.”

Although it’s impossible to supervise children every second, Dr. Rakhee encourages parents to make their homes safer. Simple steps can prevent accidents: install window grills and stair gates, remove tripping hazards, never leave children unattended especially on high surfaces, cushion sharp furniture edges, and avoid home trampolines. Helmets should be worn for cycling, and children should always be secured in age-appropriate car seats while travelling.

Accidents happen in seconds, but their impact can be permanent. Prevention isn’t just better than cure; it can be the difference between life and death. Children are not just small; they are vulnerable and they are our future. They deserve more than just our love; they deserve our protection. If you see a child in pain, physically or emotionally, do not turn away. Speak up. Act. It could be the most important thing you ever do.