Wellness

Cuts, Colds And Sprains: First Aid For Children To Treat Common Injuries At Home

Answered by Team ParentCircle

Dr Atish Laddad, an experienced pediatrician, answers your questions on common injuries and conditions that can be safely treated at home.

Q. My 2-year-old daughter falls from the bed quite often. I noticed a slight bump on her head the last time. I asked her if her head ached, and she said yes, but she was playing as usual. I would like to know how I should treat a bump on her head so that I am prepared the next time it happens. When should I take her to the doctor?

It's very common for children, especially babies and toddlers, to bump their heads as they're just learning to roll over, crawl, or walk. If your baby has encountered a minor head injury due to a fall, you must immediately wash the affected area with mild soap and water. In case bleeding occurs, use a sanitized cloth and apply pressure for about 10 minutes to stop the bleeding. Apply ice wrapped in a towel to the area for about 20 minutes. If swelling persists, you must apply the ice compress again after an hour. You can also give painkillers if necessary, after checking with your child's pediatrician. If you notice a problem with breathing or severe bleeding, take your child to her pediatrician as she may require immediate medical attention.

Q. My 6-year-old son often falls while playing and gets hurt. How do I clean his bleeding cuts or wounds? Also, how can I stop blood loss?

Children are active and endure falls and wounds now and then. If your child has suffered injuries inside the mouth, you must give him an ice cube to suck on to help reduce the bleeding and inflammation. For wounds that have occurred outside the mouth, wash the area well with soap and water, but never scrub. Apply an antibacterial lotion or cream. Never blow on the injury as this can cause germs to grow and spread.

Q. My 5-year-old son sometimes develops low-grade fever (99°F to 100°F). He's a little dull and tired when he has a fever, but is otherwise okay. What should I do to keep the fever down? When should I take him to the doctor?

Ensure that your child is dressed in light, comfortable clothes when he has a low-grade fever. Don't make him wear excess clothing, as it might trap his body heat and cause a rise in his body temperature. Always make sure your child is drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, juices, or popsicles, particularly when he's under the weather. You can also give him a warm water sponge bath.

Despite taking these measures, if your child's fever lasts for more than three days or he has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher for more than a day, seek medical help immediately. Fever can also be a sign of an infection that must be treated immediately. You must seek the help of a pediatrician in case your child has become fussy, is crying continuously, and has been refusing to take feeds.

Q. My son's nose bleeds in winter when the air is dry. What first aid should I give for a nosebleed? Can it be prevented?

While nosebleeds in children can be uncomfortable, they're usually nothing to worry about. Nosebleeds are more common during the winter, when the heated indoor air may dry out the nasal passages and make the tiny blood vessels inside them more delicate. If your child has bleeding in the nose, take a tissue or a moist cloth and use it to stop the blood. Gently tip your child's head forward (do not lean the head backward, as this can make the blood run down the throat). Pinch the soft part of your child's nose, and ask him to inhale through his mouth. To prevent nasal bleeding, you can get your child to use a saline nasal spray two or three times a day, after consulting with your pediatrician.

Q. My 7-year-old son is hyperactive and falls often. I would like to know what first aid I should give him if he sprains his ankle.

Ensure your child rests the sprained part till it's less painful. After this, wrap an ice pack or a cold compress in a towel and place it over the bruised part as soon as possible. Do this for about 20 minutes, four to eight times a day. You must support the injured part with an elastic compression bandage for at least two days. Raise the wounded part above the level of your child's heart to reduce swelling.

Q. I get anxious every time my son coughs or has a stuffy nose. And how do I manage and treat his cold at home?

Cold signs typically are mild, such as an itchy throat, sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, and a fever that's not too high. A child with a cold will typically feel quite well, and have a good appetite and normal energy levels. Some home remedies that you can consider to treat colds include giving your child a spoonful of honey to help settle the cold, saline sprays, sufficient fluids, a healthy diet, and using a humidifier.

Also Read:

Learn about common home accidents and injuries in children. Discover essential safety tips to prevent accidents and ensure your child's well-being. Read our expert advice now!

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