How long to wait to sleep after hitting head?

It is very natural to feel scared after hitting your head. Just make sure someone stays with you to monitor how you feel before you sleep.

Put an ice pack wrapped in a cloth on the bump right away to reduce the swelling. We always keep the person talking for an hour or two just to make sure they are fully conscious and alert. Don't let them sleep immediately if they feel dizzy or nauseated.

If you just have a minor bump, rest is good, but skip the gym or any intense workouts for a couple of days. Keep an eye on your balance and coordination while walking. If you feel any dizziness or lightheadedness, go see a doctor immediately instead of trying to sleep it off.

I fell in the bathroom last month and bumped my head, so I know how scary those first few hours are! I stayed awake for about three hours just to be safe and had a friend check in on me. If you are alone, please call a friend or family member to sit with you.

I went through a terrible panic attack after hitting my head last year, thinking the worst would happen if I fell asleep. It is so emotionally exhausting to deal with this fear. Please know your feelings are valid, but getting a doctor to check you will give you the ultimate peace of mind.