How to Reduce Bruise Pain and Speed Healing

A person in a bike accident

Bruises, or contusions, are common injuries that occur when small blood vessels beneath the skin are injured by trauma. Trauma can be caused by a fall, bumping against something, or direct impact. The blood leaks into surrounding tissues, producing discoloration that first appears as a deep blue or purple color and then fades with time. Bruises typically resolve in two weeks, though healing time varies on factors like age, health, and treatment regimens.
Bruises are typically benign and resolve spontaneously, but can be sore, swollen, and painful. With proper knowledge on how to manage a bruise, discomfort may be avoided, and recovery will be faster.

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First Aid for Natural Disasters: Why Being Prepared Matters

Fire fighters putting down a fire in Los Angeles

A great number of individuals know the importance of first aid training, but very few know how critical it is to be CPR and emergency response certified. In the US, we have the luxury of living a reasonably safe life, but natural disasters can strike anytime. We have hurricanes and earthquakes, as well as wildfires and floods. The truth is that the state of emergency takes place when we least expect it. The recent wildfires in LA, for example, show just how terrible things can go in an instant, forcing thousands to move and communities left in ruins. In these cases, having an emergency first aid kit and the knowledge of how to utilize it properly can save lives.

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