Trampolines, Teeth and Cuts With a Concussion!

I received a Rescue Fan’s email today that described what sounds like an accident on a trampoline.  Their friend hit their mouth on their head and now they sound as though they have concussion symptoms with a possible infection on the scalp.  They asked my opinion and the following is my reply.  It’s warm and it’s trampoline weather so if this happens to you or someone you know, I hope it helps!scalpcut

 

I wrote:

Ouch!  So, it sounds like your friend hit their mouth on your head and though it didn’t knock you out, it made you feel dizzy and now is painful/sore and maybe even a small abrasion or cut? If you’re feelings dizzy, nauseated(sick to your stomach) and have a headache, it sounds like you may have a concussion. As long as the symptoms get better with time from the concussion, you’re probably in pretty good shape.  Some people just take tylenol or another over the counter(OTC) pain medication for the headache.  With time and rest, it should get better.  If not, call your doctor.  If you it’s severe or you go unconscious, a family member should call 911.  The pain to the touch, redness, or cut and possibility of something coming from the wound may indicate an infection which could be a problem too.  If you think it’s something that could be getting infected, it sounds like it may have been a laceration.  If so, I’m not sure if needed stitches originally(didn’t sound that way from your story) but it’s probably too late for stitches at this point.  Some people like to put triple antibiotic on their cuts and abrasions to control infection.  If you’re not comfortable with over the counter or it’s really starting to concern you, it may be a good idea to see your doctor.  Have your mom take a look at the wound by separating your hair. Is there a laceration where the skin forms a fish mouth?  Is it oozing any white, or discolored and blood tinges secretion?  If any of these, then it’s probably a  good idea to see a doctor.  If not, and the wound is closed but red and sore, it’s common for people to get triple antibiotic at a drug store or grocery store, keep the wound clean and then put some of the ointment on the abrasion with a Qtip or cotton swab.  Do this until the wound is healed and not painful.  Wash your hands before and after all treatment to help not re-infect or infect the wound.

Remember, when in doubt, call your doctor and follow their advice.  In the meantime, I hope this helps.

Going On Vacation and Woke Up With Sore Throat…Help!

Sore Throat or Strep Throat, How Do I Know?https://www.royonrescue.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/sore-throat.jpgHello Rescue Fans,

This morning, I received an email from a Rescue Fan that is planning on going on Memorial weekend vacation, but woke up with a really sore throat. With no time to see their doctor, they wondered if there were any over the counter or home remedies that they could use while on vacation. Here was my advice and if  you can relate, I hope it helps.

“Hi Sarah,

The only way to know for sure if the source of your sore throat is a Strep Infection is to get a test at the doctor’s office or med center. It sounds like you don’t have time for that but if you’re concerned about it being something serious, like Strep, than call your doctor, explain that you’re going on vacation and see if they can “fast track” you through to rule out Strep and get Antibiotics if needed.

Now, if it’s not Strep and just a virus or allergies etc. there are some things that have been found to be helpful which can be found at any drug store/grocery store or home pantry. These won’t get rid of the Strep Bacteria but if it’s just a sore or irritated throat, it may help.

Here’s a combination of home remedy and over the counter help.
-Warm to Hot Tea Lemon/Honey Tea: Caffeine free is best for rehydration but any tea can work. Fresh squeezed honey would be best and local honey.
Gargling with Warm Salt Water: 1/2 teaspoon iodized salt, gargle with head back and spit water out after each gargle for about 10 seconds each. Half a glass of saltwater is fine. Then, don’t rinse your mouth afterward. Tongue may feel a little funny, lips too but that’s from the salt water and should go away.
Chloraseptic Spray and Lozenges: I like Chloraseptic brand throat spray, and though it can’t claim to cure a bacterial infection, I don’t think it can hurt because it does have some antiseptic properties along with it’s numbing effect. Offers temporary relief but may be of help.
-Stay Hydrated: We should drink at least 6-8 8oz glasses of water per day. More if we’re sick, exercising or drinking caffeine.
-Drink Broth: It’s usually quite salty, warm and doesn’t scratch your throat.
-REST!
Your body needs its rest in order to heal. If you’re feeling tired, try and get some sleep. Usually, vacations are anything but rest, but regardless that’s my advice.

I hope you’re feeling better soon and I hope this helps!”