Understanding Hemorrhage
Throughout our lives, we may encounter injuries that lead to bleeding. Hemorrhage is defined as the condition in which blood exits the blood vessels, resulting in loss of blood volume.
Types of Hemorrhage
Bleeding can be categorized into two main types:
- External Hemorrhage: This type of bleeding is visibly apparent, often resulting from scratches, cuts, surgical procedures, or other causes. Treatment typically involves applying dressings until the wound heals naturally, provided it is superficial and minor. In some cases, however, a deeper wound may necessitate medical intervention.
- Internal Hemorrhage: This article will focus on this type of hemorrhage.
Symptoms of Internal Hemorrhage
Internal hemorrhage affects body organs such as the brain, stomach, and lungs, without any visible blood loss, making it significantly more dangerous than external bleeding. It can lead to fatal consequences without the individual being aware. Nonetheless, certain symptoms may indicate the presence of internal bleeding, including:
- Changes in skin color, which may appear pale or similar to a blue bruise.
- Nausea and vomiting, with a dark coloration.
- Feelings of fatigue and exhaustion, often resulting in low blood pressure.
- Loss of consciousness.
- Altered stool color, typically appearing black.
- Respiratory disturbances, which may manifest as rapid breathing.
- Increased heart rate.
- Intense thirst.
Causes of Internal Hemorrhage
- The presence of an underlying medical condition, such as viral infections like Ebola.
- Internal bleeding can occur due to trauma or a strong impact that causes damage to internal organs. It is important to note that the extent of internal bleeding correlates with the severity of the impact.
- Malignant tumors or cancers are common causes of internal bleeding, notably including adenocarcinoma, liver cancer, and others.
- Certain medications or drug interactions may lead to internal bleeding as a side effect.
- Consumption of contaminated food containing specific toxins, such as rat poison.
- A decrease in the body’s platelet count.
- Insufficient levels of Vitamin K, which is crucial for the production of enzymes involved in blood coagulation.
- Severe drops in body temperature.
Treatment of Internal Hemorrhage
Internal bleeding cannot be treated at home; it is critical for the affected individual to be taken to a hospital for appropriate medical care. This treatment will focus on stopping the bleeding and replenishing any lost blood volume.
Video: Internal Bleeding in the Head
Watch this video to learn about the symptoms of internal bleeding in the head: