What Are Abrasions?
Frequently experienced by children or toddlers, abrasions are very common injuries that are caused by a fall on a hard surface, cuts or accidents.
As the person falls or slides on the surface, friction causes layers of skin to rub off. The skin is composed of an outer layer (the epidermis) which provides protection, and a deep inner layer (the dermis), which provides the firmness and flexibility of the skin.
Abrasions typically refer to an injury that removes these layers of skin. So an abrasion is a minor injury resulting from a cut or tear to the outer or inner layers of the skin. A skinned knee, a paper cut, a carpet burn; all are skin abrasions.
Causes Of Abrasions
• Scratches
• Accidents
• Traumas
• Bed sores
• Sports injury
• Scratching in sleep
• Getting into contact with, or scraping against, a rough surface
• Falls-Young kids are often victims of this. A scraped knee is an excellent example of a common skin abrasion.
Symptoms Of Abrasions
• Pain
• Redness
• Rash
• Swelling
• Bleeding
Abrasions may lead to painful exposure of tissues and nerve endings. Abrasions don’t usually cause excessive bleeding, but sometimes slight bleeding can occur. A band aid maybe applied to control the bleeding but as soon as the bleeding stops, it should be removed so that the wound can be exposed top air and a scab can form. An abrasion should hold its shape when the skin is moved or stretched. If any part of the wound gapes or changes shape, this is a more serious injury.
Natural Home Remedies For Abrasions
Abrasions start out as a minor injury, but in the absence of proper care, they may get infected, leading to complications. The abrasion must be washed thoroughly with soap and water, and patted dry before applying any ointment or medication. An ice pack may be applied to reduce pain and swelling. Effective home remedies for treating abrasions are:
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Aloe Vera gel is very effective at healing abrasions. It is soothing, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial It is easily available in drug stores. Many people have aloe plant at their homes. When broken aloe leaves ooze gel, which can be applied directly to the abrasion.
Calendula may also be applied. It is anti-inflammatory, astringent and antiseptic. Calendula promotes new skin growth and stops bleeding. Lavender Oil works as a painkiller and expedites the healing process. A few drops can be applied on the effected area.
Honey also eases pain. It also works as an antiseptic. Apply a thin layer of honey to the clean wound, cover with a bandage and leave overnight.
Thyme tea or Sage tea can also be dabbed on the affected area. They work as disinfectants.
Marigold leaves, plantain leaves, Parsley leaves or onion juice should be crushed and applied to the abrasion.
Cinnamon and clove oil can be used to treat an abrasion. Cinnamon works as a natural antiseptic and clove oil as a disinfectant.
Home made salves and ointments made with tea tree, calendula and comfrey are effective in treating abrasions.
Diet For Abrasions
Abrasions are minor injuries. Although there is no need for a specific die to cure them, one can definitely speed up the process of natural healing by eating a proper nutrient rich diet and keeping away from alcohol, drugs and smoking.
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