Forehead Swelling After a Bump: Causes, Relief & When to See a Doctor

Immediate Care (First 24–48 Hours)

1. Ice: 20 minutes on/off, wrapped in cloth. Reduces swelling/pain.
2. Elevate head: Sleep with extra pillows; gravity reduces fluid accumulation.
3. Arnica: Topical gel/cream (homeopathic/anti-inflammatory) – apply 3–4×/day.
4. OTC pain relief: Acetaminophen preferred; avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen) if bleeding risk.

Monitor For

• Worsening swelling after 48 hours
• Bruising spreading to eyes (raccoon eyes) or behind ears (Battle's sign) – suggests skull fracture
• Persistent headache, vomiting, confusion, drowsiness, unequal pupils
• Clear fluid from nose/ears – possible CSF leak
• Vision changes, slurred speech, weakness

When to Seek Care

• Immediately: Loss of consciousness, seizure, vomiting >2×, severe symptoms above.
• Within 24 hrs: Swelling not improving, large hematoma, on blood thinners, >65 years.
• Routine: Minor bump, improving with home care.

Most forehead bumps resolve in days. "Goose eggs" are scalp hematomas—alarming but usually benign. When in doubt, get checked.