Bleeding is a common occurrence that can range from a minor scrape to a life-threatening injury. Understanding the different types of bleeding and how to respond can significantly improve outcomes.
Identifying Bleeding Types
External bleeding originates from three types of blood vessels, each with distinct characteristics. Capillary bleeding, the most common and least severe, occurs when tiny capillaries near the skin’s surface are damaged. This type of bleeding appears as a slow, steady ooze or trickle of bright red or pinkish blood, often clotting quickly on its own. It typically results from minor cuts, scrapes, or abrasions.
Venous bleeding originates from veins, which carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. The blood from a venous injury is darker red or maroon due to its lower oxygen content. It flows steadily and continuously, rather than spurting, and can range from a slow flow to a significant gush, depending on the size and depth of the damaged vein.
Arterial bleeding is the most serious type, stemming from damaged arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart. This blood is bright red in color due to its high oxygen content. Arterial bleeding pulsates or spurts, often synchronizing with the heartbeat. It is under high pressure, leading to rapid blood loss that can quickly become life-threatening.
Immediate First Aid Actions
Controlling external bleeding begins with applying direct pressure to the wound. Using a clean cloth, sterile dressing, or even a gloved hand, press firmly and continuously on the injury. Maintaining this pressure is important; do not lift the dressing to check if the bleeding has stopped, as this can disrupt clot formation. If blood soaks through the material, simply add more layers on top and continue pressing.
Elevating the injured area above the level of the heart can help reduce blood flow to the wound, particularly for injuries on limbs. If a leg is bleeding, the person should lie down, and the leg should be raised. For minor wounds like scrapes, once bleeding is controlled, gently clean the wound with soap and water to prevent infection. Avoid using harsh antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or iodine, as these can damage tissue.
After cleaning, apply a sterile dressing or clean cloth to cover the wound and secure it with tape or a bandage. Tourniquets are a last resort for severe, uncontrollable arterial bleeding on a limb when direct pressure is insufficient. Tourniquets should only be used by those trained in their application, as incorrect use can cause further injury.
Knowing When to Seek Professional Help
Prompt medical attention is necessary for certain bleeding incidents to prevent complications. If bleeding cannot be controlled with direct pressure after several minutes, or if blood continues to spurt or flow rapidly, professional help is needed. Wounds that are deep, very large, or gaping may require stitches or specialized treatment. Suspected arterial bleeding warrants immediate emergency medical attention.
Signs of shock, such as pale, cool, clammy skin, rapid pulse, rapid breathing, confusion, or dizziness, indicate a serious situation requiring urgent care. If an object is embedded in the wound, it should not be removed, as it may be helping to control bleeding; medical professionals should handle removal. Suspicions of internal bleeding, indicated by symptoms like abdominal pain, blood in urine or stool, or vomiting blood, also necessitate immediate medical evaluation.