Wounds: types, symptoms, treatment and prevention
Wounds are various mechanical damage to tissues, which may be accompanied by damage to the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes. The nature of the wound depends on the type of wounding weapon and the mechanism of injury. Wounds can be crushed, bruised, torn, cut, chopped, stabbed, gunshot, bitten, etc.
Wound symptoms include pain, bleeding, and skin or mucosal defects. The severity of pain depends on the innervation of the affected area, with maximum pain observed on the face, perineum and genitals. If inflammation does not occur, the pain usually goes away after 2-3 days.
Wound healing is possible by primary and secondary intention. During primary healing, the wound heals without scar formation; during secondary healing, a scar is formed. The main signs of healing are the formation of granulation tissue, epithelization and reduction of the skin or mucosal defect.
Treatment of wounds depends on their severity and the nature of the associated complications. For uncomplicated wounds of small area and depth, treatment in a clinic is indicated. Primary surgical treatment of the wound is performed with excision of necrotic areas and crushed tissues, after which the wound is sutured. In some cases, with deep wounds, drainage of the wound and the application of provisional sutures to the skin are indicated.
For wounds complicated by bleeding, damage to muscles, tendons, nerves, chest and abdominal wounds, hospitalization with a thorough inspection and restoration of damaged anatomical formations is indicated. It is important to remember that the prognosis depends on the timing of wound treatment and the nature of the associated complications.
To prevent wounds, precautions must be taken, including the use of protective equipment, such as helmets, gloves, safety glasses, etc. If you receive a wound, you must immediately neutralize it, put on gloves and rinse the wound with boiled water with some kind of disinfectant, such as potassium permanganate, boric acid acid, etc. It is enough to wash small wounds and cover them with fine boric acid and tie them up.
If blood flows from the wound without stopping, then you need to soak a rag in boiling water and apply it, the blood will stop flowing. For large, deep and complicated wounds, you should consult a doctor to receive professional help and treatment.
One of the most effective methods of preventing wounds is following safety rules when performing various types of work, including sports and household chores. It is also necessary to monitor skin hygiene and use protective equipment in case of possible contact with wounding instruments.
It is important to remember that any wound, even a seemingly minor one, can be dangerous and lead to serious complications, so care must be taken to prevent injury. If a wound does occur, you should consult a doctor for professional help and treatment.