5 Ways to Treat Throat Injuries

1. Accidents Happen

Accidental injuries can occur during sports or during everyday activities. Injuries to the head, neck and throat can happen as a result of fighting or roughhousing, or during sports like football and soccer. Head injuries can lead to concussion, nerve damage or spinal damage and throat injuries can impair breathing or blood circulation. Because of the risk of permanent damage, it's important to act quickly, remember first aid basics and treat throat injuries safely.

2. Scrapes and Cuts

The throat has major arteries so any injuries that break the skin like cuts and abrasions need immediate attention to prevent blood loss. If the throat has been cut in any way, first assess the deepness of the cut. If the wound is near the major artery or bleeding heavily, apply steady pressure and seek emergency treatment immediately. If the cut is less severe, clean the area with antiseptic and bandage it with first aid gauze or a bandage. Periodically check the wound to make sure the flow of blood is slowing. If not, seek medical attention.

3. Ain't That a Kick in the Head

Blows to the throat can damage the esophagus, trachea or even the brain stem. Ask the person who's been hit basic questions like their name and the year or the name of the current president; difficulty recalling basic knowledge could be a sign of a concussion so get emergency help if the person seems confused or disoriented. Monitor the person's behavior for any hoarseness or difficulty breathing or swallowing. Count her breaths per minute and note any decrease in breathing.

4. Effects on the Spine

Throat injuries can also damage the spine and neck. If you think someone has been injured, do not move him if he has any pain or difficulty moving his spine or neck. Doing so could cause permanent damage to the spine or surrounding nerves. Tilt the head back slightly so the person can breathe, but do not add a cushion or pillow under his head. If there is any chance that the person's spine has sustained damage, immobilize him as best you can and seek medical treatment immediately.

5. Assume the Worst

No matter how minor a throat injury appears to be, it's best to always assume the worst and seek emergency medical attention. While the injury may be minor, there could be internal damage that isn't apparent and the injured person might require further treatment that you can't provide. Call 911 immediately and have the person examined by emergency medical personnel to rule out internal injury and ensure that the person is okay.