How To Recognise Internal Bleeding

The condition is often hard to spot as there are not always visible signs of the condition, other than a very poorly casualty.

The visible signs of internal bleeding are not pretty, but they are often the only indicator for those who are looking to diagnose the condition. First aid is never easy, and it always helps to have a few clear indicators, which can clear the path for treatment. Lives hang in the balance with these types of injuries, whereby the smallest of symptoms can prove critical.

Coughed up of blood is one of the clearest signs of injury to the inner body. A dark red blood indicates injury to the stomach area, whereas a frothy, bright red blood would indicate injury to the lungs. Both of these are life threatening, and require the immediate attention of the emergency services.

The head to toe survey is essential for all casualties who are breathing. First aiders are trained to look out for visible signs, such as patterned bruising on the abdomen. This is not present in every case, and is therefore not a direct test of the condition. A person who has blood in their urine may also be suffering with internal bleeding, and should be transferred to hospital at the earliest possible convenience.

Unfortunately in many cases there are no visible signs of internal bleeding, which can make diagnosing the condition very hard. It must be stressed however that those who are administering first aid are not expected to be doctors, and are only trained on the basics of the condition.

One of the main non-visible signs is tenderness in the affected area. Those who give first aid are trained to gently press the key areas of the body that can be affected by internal bleeding. When conscious the casualty may complain of pain in the area, which is a sign that something sinister lies underneath. Of course if they are unconscious this is not possible; however pain is often the best indicator of injury on the conscious casualty.

It is essential to move onto a treatment protocol once the condition has been spotted. The emergency services should be notified immediately as internal bleeding is a life threatening condition which can quickly get out of control. If possible the casualty should be lied down with their knees
drawn up and supported. This ensures that the circulatory system is resting and that the blood in the upper legs is pointed in the direction of the heart. The airway should be maintained so that the casualty can breathe comfortably, whilst you await the arrival of the emergency services.

Expect the casualty's condition to deteriorate whilst you are in their company. Shock is a possibility under these circumstances. In this case the casualty's legs should be elevated, and they should be kept warm. There is also a possibility that they could become unconscious. The priority in these circumstances would be to move them into the recovery position, which maintains the airway without any further assistance.

---------------------------------------------------- Bill Casserley is a dedicated first aid instructor, who regularly volunteers at sporting events. Did you know the skills that were outlined in the article? If not then visit the 3 day first aid course learning zone @ http://www.train-aid.co.uk for free tips.