Severe Bleeding

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We all suffer cuts and scrapes from time to time. For the most part, these minor injuries can be treated at home. But if you receive a severe external wound that spurts or causes a great deal of steady bleeding, it is possible that an artery or vein has been cut. Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the lungs and heart to the rest of the body; veins carry oxygen-poor blood back to the heart and lungs. If an artery is cut, it will bleed oxygenated blood that is bright red in color. Oxygen-poor blood coming from a cut vein is a dark, bluish red.

Hundreds of miles of blood vessels run to every living organ and tissue. If blood flow to any part of the body is cut off, that part will die. Brain cells die after three to four minutes without a fresh supply of blood. If you are bleeding heavily, emergency treatment is necessary.

General recommendations for severe bleeding

Once the crisis is over and you are well enough to leave the hospital, ask your doctor for recommendations regarding diet, activity restrictions, and other measures to support recovery.

Preventive measures for severe bleeding

The best way to prevent an injury that causes severe bleeding is to take sensible precaution to avoid accidents. For example, drive defensively, and always wear your seat belt. Don't drink and drive. If you own a gun, keep it unloaded and locked up. Wear proper protective gear when operating power tools, including lawnmowers.

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