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CutsA cut refers to a skin wound with separation of the connective tissue elements. Unlike an abrasion (a wound caused by friction or scraping), none of the skin is missing the skin is just separated. A cut is typically thought of as a wound caused by a sharp object (such as a knife or a shard of glass). The term laceration implies a torn or jagged wound. Lacerations tend to be caused by blunt trauma (such as a blow, fall, or collision). Cuts and lacerations are terms for the same condition. The term gash can be used for more dramatic effect because it implies a longer or deeper cut. An avulsion refers to a wound where tissue is not just separated but torn away from the body. After you suffer a cut you often bleed. Other concerns with a cut include infection, pain, damage to structures beneath the skin, and future scars. A deep cut, may reveal underlying tissues such as fat, tendon, muscle, or bone. Some people faint at the sight of their own blood (this is a neurological reaction in which a reflex slowing of the heart causes a low blood pressure called vasovagal syncope). Physicians need to distinguish this common faint from people who pass out from loss of blood (hemorrhagic shock). When to seek medical attention: Call your doctor to decide whether you need a tetanus booster. You should have had a tetanus booster immunization within the last 10 years if you have a simple, clean cut, or within the last five years if you have a more complex or dirty cut. Beyond general wound care advice, it is very difficult to give advice on care specific to a patient's cut over the phone. Your doctor may help you decide whether it is better to go to the doctor's office or to a hospital's Emergency Department. Ask these questions when considering whether to get treatment for a cut at a hospital's Emergency Department: Can you stop the bleeding? Are the wound edges separated? Can you adequately clean the wound? Is it possible that serious underlying damage was done (such as a cut nerve or tendon)? Do you need a tetanus or rabies shot? Tetanus is a serious condition resulting from a poison made by the Clostridium tetani bacterium, which is often present in dirt. Rabies is a serious viral infection of the nervous system resulting from bites of rabid animals. Self Care at Home: Most bleeding can be stopped with direct pressure and time (rest and elevation are also helpful). Cleaning with a gentle soap and water will help reduce the chance of bacterial infection. Antibiotic ointment (such as bacitracin) and a sterile gauze bandage will help to protect the wound from further infection and water loss until a scab forms. Essential oils including Lavender, Lemon and Tea Tree can help the cut to heal. Bathe the cut in water with 1 drop Lavender and 1 drop Tea Tree essential oils. If a plaster is applied put one drop of Lavender essential oil onto the plaster before application. |
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