Definition
This condition involves losing blood. This can occur internally (when blood leaks from blood vessels inside the body), externally through a natural opening (such as the vagina , mouth, or rectum), or externally through a break in the skin.
Symptoms
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Definition
This condition involves losing blood. This can occur internally (when blood leaks from blood vessels inside the body), externally through a natural opening (such as the vagina , mouth, or rectum), or externally through a break in the skin.
Causes
Bleeding can be caused by injuries or can occur spontaneously. Spontaneous bleeding is most commonly caused by problems with the gastrointestinal or urogenital tract.
Considerations
Direct pressure will stop most external bleeding, and is the most important initial first aid.
Blood loss can cause bruises, which usually result from a blow or a fall. They are dark, discolored areas on the skin. Apply a cool compress to the area as soon as possible to reduce swelling . Wrap the ice in a towel and place the towel over the injury. Do not place ice directly on the skin.
Serious injuries don't always bleed heavily, and some relatively minor injuries (for example, scalp wounds ) can bleed profusely. People who take blood-thinning medication or who have a bleeding disorder , such as hemophilia , may bleed excessively and quickly because their blood cannot clot properly. Bleeding in such people requires immediate medical attention.
Always wash your hands before (if possible) and after giving first aid to someone who is bleeding ...
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Other Names
Blood loss; Open injury bleeding
When to Call 911
- The bleeding can't be controlled, or is associated with a serious injury.
- The wound might need stitches, or if embedded gravel or dirt cannot be removed easily with gentle cleaning.
- Internal bleeding or shock is suspected.
- Signs of infection develop including increased pain, redness, swelling, discharge, swollen lymph nodes , fever, or red streaks spreading from the site toward the heart. (This is usually treated with topical or oral antibiotics. If untreated, an infection can cause a skin abscess or other complications.)
- If the injury involves an animal or human bite.
- If you are not up-to-date on tetanus immunization (within 5-10 years).
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Warnings
- DO NOT apply a tourniquet to control bleeding, except as a last resort. Doing so may cause more harm than good. A tourniquet should be used only in a life-threatening situation and should be applied by an experienced person. A tourniquet can be used if there is torrential bleeding and if continuous pressure isn't stopping the bleeding. A tourniquet should be applied to the limb between the bleeding site and the heart. The tourniquet should be tightened to the point where the bleeding can be controlled by applying direct pressure over the wound. To make a tourniquet, use bandages 2 to 4 inches wide and wrap them around the limb several times. Tie a half or square knot, leaving loose ends long enough to tie another knot. A stick or a stiff rod should ...
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First-Aid
First aid is appropriate for external bleeding. If bleeding is severe, or if shock or internal bleeding is suspected, get emergency help immediately!
- Calm and reassure the victim. The sight of blood can be very frightening.
- If the wound is superficial, wash it with soap and warm water and pat dry. Superficial wounds or scrapes are injuries that affect the top layers of skin and bleeding from such wounds is often described as "oozing," because it is slow.
- Lay the victim down. This will reduce the chances of fainting by increasing the blood flow to the brain. When possible, elevate the bleeding area.
- Remove any obvious loose debris or dirt from a wound. If an object such as a knife, ...
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Prevention
- Use good judgment and keep knives and sharp objects away from small children.
- Stay up-to-date on vaccinations . Generally, the tetanus immunization (vaccine) is renewed every 10 years. The victim should get a tetanus shot at 5 years if the person has had two or fewer prior immunizations; the wound is heavily contaminated (foreign material); or there is extensive crush injury or devitalized tissue.
