Treating Common Ailments In Small Children Learning To Walk
If you have a toddler who is just learning how to take their own steps, you will soon find out you need to watch them like a hawk to make sure they do not become injured as they learn this new feat. There are several injuries a toddler learning to walk can sustain very easily. Here are a few of the most common ailments caused by learning how to walk and how to effectively treat them.
Bumps And Bruising
If your child falls when trying to walk across a floor, they may hit a piece of furniture in the process. They may also injure their body from the impact of the fall. If you witness your child's fall and see that their skin has become red from the incident, place an ice pack wrapped in a hand towel over the area for several minutes. This will minimize the amount of inflammation the area will receive as a result of the fall. If the area becomes discolored and bruised, do not be alarmed. This will lighten in intensity over the next several days. If you notice your child avoids using a part of their body because of pain, get them to a children's clinic for an evaluation. If they are crying non-stop, there may be a broken bone underneath the bruised area.
Cuts Or Scrapes
If your child sustains a cut or scrape on their skin as a result of a fall, watch the area closely to see if the bleeding subsides when pressure is applied. Wash the injured area first, taking notice to the intensity of the bleeding in the process. If there seems to be clotting capabilities occurring, the injury may be able to be treated at home. Hold a towel over the area firmly for several minutes. When it is removed, if the bleeding has slowed, you can apply a bandage to the area. If the bleeding continues, bring your child to a doctor for an assessment as they may be in need of stitches.
Head Injuries
When a child bumps their head, there is usually concern that they may have a concussion from the occurrence. Keep an eye on your child for any symptoms of this condition.This would include the desire to sleep, dizziness, vomiting, or a general appearance of disorientation. If any of these symptoms are noticed after a head-bump, get to a doctor immediately. Apply a cool compress on the area to help relieve swelling and make sure to keep your child awake for several hours so you can continue observing for signals of a concussion.
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