Open Wounds
As their name suggests, open wounds refer to injuries involving internal or external breaks in the tissues of the body. At one point or another, almost everyone experiences open wounds. In most cases, they’re generally minor and don’t require medical treatment, but they can get infected, so you should always clean them. Doing so will reduce the risks of infection. Moreover, it’ll prevent complications like tetanus, diphtheria, and ringworms, to name a few. However, if it’s caused by a severe accident, it’s recommended to seek immediate medical attention, especially if excessive or persistent bleeding is involved.
Minor wounds are easily treatable and can be addressed at home. Firstly, you must disinfect and wash the affected area to free it of debris and dirt. Elevation and pressure will help control its swelling and bleeding. When wrapping your wound, use only sterile bandages or dressings. In many situations, minor abrasions and lacerations can recover without being wrapped. If there’s swelling or bruising, applying ice can help.
If the wound is around half an inch deep and bleeding can’t be stopped with pressure or lasts for over twenty minutes, you must see a healthcare provider immediately to get the proper treatment. It’s worth noting that complications may arise from open wounds. Therefore, it’s crucial to address them as quickly as possible.
