Internal First Aid
Sometimes problems that arise in emergency situations are not the obvious cut or scrape, but may be internal to the suffering person. With these problems you must often rely on the injured person to indicate his or her difficulty so that it can be further investigated and treated. Many of these types of problems should receive attention from a medical person as soon as possible, after first aid is applied.
- Appendicitis is revealed by pain in the right lower abdomen. It normally causes nausea, and may also be accompanied by vomiting and fever. There really is not much that can be done for appendicitis by someone using first aid. However, it is important to be aware of the symptoms so that a doctor can be obtained on short notice. But also remember not to allow the person to eat or drink until seen by the doctor. Also an ice bag applied to the lower abdomen may reduce discomfort.
- Croup is also known as laryngotracheobronchitis. It most commonly affects children between six months and three years of age. It is a viral illness for which there is no immediate cure. It is characterized by noisy and difficult breathing. There is also a hoarse and dry cough. The child should obviously see a doctor. In short term the person should be exposed to moist air such as produced by a humidifier. A fever reducer (acetaminophen or ibuprofen containing products) or a non-narcotic cough suppressant may help relieve symptoms1.
- Earache is characterized by pain in the ear. Very young children may not be able to voice the problem clearly and will indicate a problem by consistently pawing their ear. A warm compress may provide immediate relief. This can easily be done using a sock filled with rice.
- Should a person faint place them in a laying-down position, with the legs raised higher than the body. Loosen clothing and apply cold cloths to the face. Fainting is usually accompanied by pale and clammy skin, coupled with dizziness, shallow breathing, sweating, and of course unconsciousness.
- A fever occurs when the body temperature exceeds the usual 98.6 degrees F (37° C). Preliminary indications are when the forehead is warm to the touch. With fever, increased fluid intake is called for. Cooling sponges with cool water may help, but most treatment is considered a comfort measure until the temp exceeds 102° when using fever reducing over the counter medication may be useful. At this point it would be wise to consult a physician.
- Heart Attacks are very serious. An ambulance should be called immediately. A heart attack is indicated by persistent chest pain that often radiates to the left shoulder and arm. The will also likely be difficulty in breathing. Lips, skin, and fingernails may also turn blue. Quickly giving the patient an aspirin may help alleviate some of the long term effects of a heart attack. If breathing and heartbeat have ceased, perform mouth to mouth and chest compression measures. Keep heart attack victim in an upright, but comfortable position. Keep warm and loosen the collar.
- Stroke is another very serious ailment. An ambulance should be called immediately. Indications of stroke are lapse of consciousness, heavy breathing, seeming weakness in face or limbs on one side (or the other) of the body. Generally, there is an inability to speak. While awaiting the ambulance, cover the patient with a light blanket. Turn the head to one side if vomiting begins. Give no stimulants and nothing to eat or drink. Have the person stop whatever they are doing and rest.
- Toothache is indicated by pain in or near the tooth. The tooth may also be sensitive to hot or cold food and fluids. aspirin, Tylenol or other pain reliever may help temporarily relieve symptoms. (Do not give aspirin to children). Call a dentist.
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