Injuries are an unfortunate reality of life. And as a parent, you need to be aware of the most common childhood injuries to protect your child from them. Here are the top five injuries you should watch out for, from falls to burns. Keep yourself and your child safe by being informed and taking the necessary precautions.
Falls
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the most common type of childhood injury. More than 3 million kids aged 14 and under receive medical treatment for fall-related injuries. And while some falls are simply unavoidable accidents, there are many ways to help prevent them. For example, parents can childproof their homes by installing safety gates at the top and bottom of stairways, using window guards on upper-floor windows, and covering sharp corners on furniture. Additionally, making sure your child is supervised at all times, significantly when climbing or playing in high-up places, can help prevent severe injuries. With a little bit of effort, parents can help create a safe environment for their children and reduce the risk of falls.
Burns
Burns is one of the most common childhood injuries. They can occur when kids are playing with fire, cooking, or exposed to hot liquids or objects. Severe burns can require urgent pediatric care. Treatment may involve surgery, skin grafts, and other interventions. To prevent burns in children, it is essential to keep them away from sources of heat and fire. Be sure to teach them about the dangers of playing with fire and hot objects. Anticipate their curiosity and take steps to prevent accidents from happening. For example, keep candles out of reach and use childproof covers on electrical outlets. Be aware of situations that may increase the risk of a burn injury, such as being in a crowded place near open flames (e.g., at a bonfire) or having loose clothing around a heat source (e.g., a stove). By taking some simple precautions, you can help keep your children safe from burns.
Cuts and scrapes
Cuts and scrapes are among the most common childhood injuries. They can happen when kids fall, play sports, or even walk around the house. While cuts and scrapes may not seem like a big deal, they can be pretty severe. That’s why it’s essential to properly care for them. If a cut is more than a quarter-inch deep, bleeding heavily, or on the face, head, or neck, it should be seen by a doctor. However, for less severe cuts and scrapes, you can take a few simple steps to ensure that they heal correctly. First, clean the wound with soap and water, then apply pressure if the bleeding isn’t severe. Finally, cover the wound with a bandage to keep it clean and protected. By following these simple steps, you can help your child avoid infections and other complications.
Bruises
Most parents have been there- you turn around for a split second, and your toddler has taken a tumble. It’s inevitable that childhood is full of falls, spills, and minor injuries. As parents, we often worry about the more severe injuries, but usually, it’s the more common, everyday injuries that cause the most issues. One of such injuries is bruises.
Bruises happen when small blood vessels under the skin break or leak. They often result from a fall, blow, or other impact on the body. Bruises can occur anywhere on the body but are commonly seen on children’s arms, legs, and heads. While they may be painful, bruises are usually not serious and will go away on their own within a few days. However, it’s essential to see a doctor if you notice any signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus) or the bruise does not seem to be healing after a week or so. In some cases, bruises can indicate a more severe issue, such as internal bleeding. If you have any concerns about a bruise, always err on caution and consult with your child’s doctor.
Strains and sprains
Strains and sprains are among the most common childhood injuries. A strain occurs when a muscle is stretched or torn. Meanwhile, a sprain happens when a ligament is stretched or torn. Both injuries can be caused by falls, twists, or other sudden movements. While strains and sprains often cause pain and swelling, they usually heal within a few weeks with rest and ice. However, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage in severe cases. Children who participate in sports or other activities that require repetitive motion are at greater risk for developing strains and sprains. To help prevent these injuries, it is vital to warm up before exercising and wear proper safety gear.
The bottom line
Injuries are common in childhood, but that doesn’t mean they’re unavoidable. By taking some simple precautions and being aware of the most common injuries, you can help keep your child safe. If your child does suffer a damage, it is crucial to seek medical attention if necessary and to follow the proper steps for care.
