Dealing With Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding is a very serious condition yet can be very difficult to recognize in its early stages. Internal bleeding can be a result of injuries, such as lung or abdominal injuries, yet can also happen ‘spontaneously’ to an apparently well patient, such as bleeding from a stomach ulcer or a weak artery.
Although blood may not actually be lost ‘externally’ from the body, it is lost out of the arteries and veins, so the shock can quickly develop.
Other serious life-threatening complications can occur from internal bleeding, such as a brain hemorrhage or bleeding into the lungs.
Possible signs and symptoms
You should suspect internal bleeding if signs of shock are present, but there is no obvious cause, such as external bleeding.
There may be:
- Signs of SHOCK.
- Pain, or a history of recent pain at the site of bleeding.
- Bruising and/or swelling.
- Other symptoms related to the site of bleeding (e.g. difficulty breathing if the bleeding is in the lung).
Treatment of internal bleeding
- Dial 999 for an ambulance.
- Treat the casualty for shock as necessary.
First Aid Lessons and Help
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These lessons and information do not replace actual attendance on a first aid course, getting hands on practice with your first aid skills is the best way to ensure you are a competant and capable first aider.
If you would like to book a first aid course or if you have a question for us please call 0191 7166601, email admin@firstaidsafeytraining.com or complete our online enquiry form and a member of the team will get back to you shortly.
We provide workplace onsite training for Emergency First Aid, First Aid at Work and Paediatric First Aid but a range of other First Aid Courses across the North East, our first aid training centre is based in South Shields.
