Minor Cuts

Minor Cuts

It is the term used for severed skin or puncture wound not large enough to seek immediate professional medical help. It is characterized by a visible cut on the skin and mesoderm. Immediate first aid regimen must be administered to a person suffered from cuts, to avoid further complication such as infection.

Causes

Cut is common on household especially for children. It is characterized by bleeding of an open skin. Cuts are caused by any sharp objects, like knife and broken glass. Even paper and some toy parts can cause cuts.

Treatments for Cuts

Washing a cut with soap and water and keeping it clean and dry is all that is required to care for most wounds. Putting alcohol hydrogen peroxide, and iodine into a wound can delay healing and should be avoided.

Most minor cuts can be taken care of at home. Priority is to stop the bleeding if any, clean the area and prevent infection from setting in. Whenever the skin is damaged, harmful bacteria can invade the wound that can cause infection.

Stop the bleeding by pressing a clean, soft cloth against the wound. If the wound isn’t very bad, the bleeding should stop in a few minutes.

Use a butterfly bandage to close the wound. This will keep the edges of the wound together so the wound heals. Leave it in place for 24 to 48 hours to give the skin time to knit together and heal.

Avoiding Infection

There is a possibility of contracting a tetanus infection when skin is exposed as in case of cuts. Vaccines for immunization are available for children. Adults who have never been vaccinated against tetanus should get a series of three injections of Td over six to 12 months and then follow it with the 10-year booster shot schedule to avoid further complications.
In case of deeper cuts, it may need stitches for proper tissue healing, Seek professional Medical Help.

Home Remedies for Cuts

Honey:
It is known to be effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi. Also assist in clearing any infection that accelerates the healing process by stimulating tissue regeneration. Scarring and pain are also reduced and dressings do not stick to the wound. It is a natural antiseptic for the treatment of cuts.

Epsom Salt:
Mixed 1/2 cup to 1 quart of hot water, use washcloth to dip in solution and apply over infected area four times a day.

Plantain leaves:
Crush the leaves to get the potent juice. Apply the leaves to the cleaned wound

Aloe Vera:
In pure gel form is ideal for topical application. It is a soothing, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial treatment that helps in healing all kinds of wounds

Apple cider Vinegar:
Use a mixture of 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar to 1 glass of water. Use washcloth to dip in solution and apply over infected area. (Note: vinegar stings to the wounds)

Garlic:
It has allicin an antimicrobial agent, Mix 3 cloves garlic with 1 cup wine in a blender. Let it stand for two to three hours, then strain. Apply to the well-cleaned wound with a clean cloth one to two times a day. Stop using if it irritates your skin.

Onion
The same antimicrobial component of garlic, allicin, is found in onions. And onions don’t irritate the skin like garlic. Crush half an onion in a blender. Mix with honey and apply to the wound. Discard after 30 minutes. Repeat three times a day.