Head Laceration
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
A laceration happens when the skin and soft tissues under it are torn. Head lacerations usually bleed more than other types of lacerations.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Have someone call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You cannot be woken.
- Your mood or behavior changes.
- You have a seizure.
Seek care immediately if:
- You have bleeding that does not stop after 10 minutes of holding firm, direct pressure over the wound.
- Your wound reopens.
- You have tingling, weakness, or numbness near your wound.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever or chills.
- Your wound is red, warm, swollen, or has pus coming from it.
- You have pain that gets worse, even after taking pain medicine.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Antibiotics help treat or prevent a bacterial infection.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Rest as needed:
Some activities may cause too much pressure in your head. Your laceration may begin to bleed.
Do not get your wound wet:
Carefully wash your wound with soap and water as directed. Gently pat the area dry or allow it to air dry.
Change your bandages:
Apply new, clean bandages as directed. Do not put powders or lotions over your wound.
Apply ice to decrease swelling and pain:
Apply ice to the wound for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you apply it.
Apply antibiotic ointment as directed:
Your healthcare provider may give you antibiotic ointment to put over your wound if you have stitches. If you have strips of tape over your wound, let them dry up and fall off on their own. You may gently remove strips of tape if they do not fall off within 14 days. If you have glue over your wound, do not remove or pick at it. If the glue comes off, do not replace it with glue that you have at home.
Check the area every day for signs of infection:
Signs may include redness, pus, and warmth around the wound.
Do not smoke:
Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can prevent your wound from healing. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
You will need to return in 3 to 14 days if you have stitches or staples so they can be removed. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.