Travel Health Guide · Emergency Series
Head Injury After a Fall in Cabo — When to Call and What Happens at the Hospital
Falls — from ATVs, stairs, wet pool decks, sand dune mishaps — are common in Cabo. Most head bumps are minor. The few that are serious can be life-threatening if missed. Here are the signs that mean call now.
Red flags after a head injury
Loss of consciousness (any duration), persistent vomiting, severe or worsening headache, confusion, weakness or numbness, slurred speech, seizures, clear fluid from nose or ears, unequal pupils.
Even without immediate red flags, evaluate if:
The person is on blood thinners (anticoagulants), over 65, has an alcohol-influenced fall, hit head hard enough to cause skull pain, or hit a dangerous spot (temple).
What happens at the hospital
Doctor evaluation, neurological exam, CT scan of the head to rule out bleeding or skull fracture. Most cases discharged after observation; some need admission and neurosurgical consultation.
Flight restrictions after head injury
For confirmed concussion or worse, flying may be delayed 24-72 hours (or longer) for stabilization and to ensure no delayed bleeding. Repatriation when cleared.
Recovery at home vs Cabo
Mild concussion can recover anywhere. Severe head injury needs ongoing neurological care — repatriation home for ongoing management is common.
Real medical emergency in Cabo?
Our 24/7 bilingual team triages, treats, escalates and advocates. One call covers everything.
FAQ
Should I get a CT scan for every head bump?
No — only with red flags or risk factors. Doctor evaluation first.
How fast does brain bleeding present?
Most within hours but some delayed up to 24-48 hours. Observation matters.
Can I fly with a concussion?
Generally wait 24-48 hours minimum. Doctor clearance.
Will my hat or sunburn show signs of head injury?
No — they are unrelated. Focus on neurological signs.
What about kids?
Lower threshold for evaluation. Children compensate differently.
Important medical note: This article is general information for travelers and is not medical advice. For an immediate life-threatening emergency in Mexico, call 911 first. For coordination of urgent care, hospital escalation, ground or air ambulance, or medical repatriation home to the USA or Canada, call our 24/7 bilingual line. Cabo Walk-In Clinic is COFEPRIS-licensed in Mexico; hospital and specialist care is delivered by an independent licensed hospital and its physicians. Travel-insurance reimbursement depends on your policy and your insurer’s review.