Pilgrim’s Health

First Aid for The Most Common Problems in Hajj

First aid for epistaxis:
  • Bend slightly forward while sitting or standing, avoiding lying down or tilting the head backwards, because that will cause swallowing blood, and vomiting.
  • Pressure on the nose from the cartilaginous (non-osseous) part on both sides, while avoiding pressure on only one side, even if the bleeding is on only one side.
  • Pressure on the nose for at least five minutes for children, and 10 to 15 minutes for adults.
  • Cold compresses or an ice bag can be placed on the nose, as it helps blood vessels contract.
  • Repeat the previous steps if the bleeding does not stop, while applying pressure on the nose for a period of not less than 30 minutes. If the bleeding does not stop, you must go to the emergency room immediately.
  • You should avoid inhaling or blowing your nose for several hours after a nosebleed.
First aid for bruises:
  • Rest and elevate the injured area above the level of the heart to prevent swelling.
  • Apply ice packs to the injured area every one to two hours for 15 minutes each time for at least 6 hours after the injury.
  • Wrap the ice pack in a towel before use and avoid applying it directly to the skin.
  • Take some painkillers to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Use an elastic bandage and wrap the affected area to reduce swelling while avoiding too tight and removing it when sleeping.
  • Avoid placing hot compresses on the site of the injury for at least 48 hours to avoid increasing swelling and pain.
  • Do not insert a needle or anything into the bruise to drain it.
First aid for fractures:
  • Stop the bleeding if the fracture has a laceration of the skin by applying pressure on the wound using a sterile bandage or a clean piece of cloth.
  • The affected area should not be moved, because moving it can lead to severe complications, especially if the fracture is in the neck or spine.
  • The affected area should be cooled by placing ice cubes with a clean cloth and then placed on the affected area to reduce swelling and pain.
  • When the patient feels faint or is breathing short and rapid breaths, the injured person should be placed in a suitable position so that his head is slightly lower than the torso. If possible, his legs can be raised to overcome the symptoms of shock.
  • Call an ambulance to request help and transfer the injured person to the emergency department to take the necessary measures, such as examinations and treatment.
Minor wound care:
Clean the wound by washing it well with soap and water.
  • Stop the bleeding by pressing a clean cloth or bandage on the area firmly for 20 minutes. The bleeding can also be slowed down by raising the wound above the level of the heart. If the bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes, you should go to the emergency room.
  • Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the wound, as directed by the health care provider.
  • Cover the wound with a bandage or gauze, while keeping the bandage clean and dry, and change it once or twice a day until the wound heals.
  • Check the skin when changing the dressing, to check for signs of infection (eg redness that gets worse or spreads, swelling, or heat in the area) and a clear fluid when the wound is healing is normal.
  • Avoid putting the wound in water until it heals.
  • Most minor wounds heal on their own within 7 to 10 days. When the wound heals, a crust forms on the wound. It should not be scratched or the surrounding skin.


Last Update : 21 June 2023 06:21 PM
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