Understanding the problem

Cuts and grazes

Cuts and grazes are extremely common minor injuries and may appear to be worse than they are at times as even a small cut can produce a lot of blood. A cut means the skin has been fully broken and this can be caused by knives and scissors, or even paper. A graze is when only the top layers of the skin are removed. These can be caused any time the skin is rubbed quickly against a rough surface and they tend to cover a larger surface area of the skin compared to a cut. Grazes may also be referred to as an abrasion or scrape. 

Burns and scalds

Both of these injuries are caused by heat applied to the skin, but they are slightly different. A burn refers to an injury caused by dry heat, including sunburn and contact with fire or a really hot surface such as an iron or hot metal pan. A scald is an injury from wet heat, for instance when steam or a hot liquid comes into contact with the skin.

The main symptoms to look out for a suspected burn or scald are red skin, swelling and pain. Afterwards, or sometimes almost instantly, blistering may occur. The longer the skin is exposed to heat the worse the burn or scald will be. A first-degree burn is an injury to the epidermis – the outer layer of skin. More layers of skin are damaged with a second degree burn and this is when blistering can occur. A third-degree burn, where the underlying tissues are damaged as well as the skin, is severe and needs urgent medical attention.

Insect bites and stings

Insect bites and stings are common, and for many people are usually nothing to worry about. It can help to be aware of some of the types of bugs that can cause bites and stings, such as bees, wasps, midges, fleas and bedbugs.

Most bites and stings will appear on the skin as a red swollen lump, which can be extremely itchy and painful. Some people may experience a slight allergic reaction and a larger ring around the bite will become red and swollen. Some customers may suffer from anaphylaxis after an insect bite or sting and require emergency medical attention. 

Sprains and strains

A sprain is an injury to a ligament that supports a joint, such as the elbow or ankle. A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, such as a hamstring. Strains happen when a muscle is overstretched, making it prone to tearing. Both of these injuries often happen during physical activity, but they can also occur due to overreaching or even falling awkwardly. Symptoms can include pain around the affected area, swelling and inflammation. Bruising may occur later. Some customers may be unable to put weight on the affected joint.

Using the PRICE technique is the best course of action to treat sprains and strains:

• Protect: the area should be quickly protected from further injury
• Rest: activity should be avoided for a minimum of 48-72 hours after the injury has occurred
• Ice: an ice pack – or even a bag of frozen peas – wrapped in a towel can be applied to the area to help to reduce swelling. It should be applied as quickly as possible and held to the affected area for up to 20 minutes every two to three hours
• Compression: a bandage or any piece of clean clothing that can be tied around the affected area should be used to apply compression to the injury
• Elevation: raising the affected area will help to limit swelling.