1. Basic First Aid
Most superficial injuries can be treated with basic first aid. Clean cuts and scratches thoroughly to remove dirt and help prevent infection. Apply firm pressure to stop bleeding, then cover the wound with an antibiotic ointment and a sterile bandage. Take pain reliever to help control any pain or discomfort. You can also use pain reliever to help reduce discomfort from bruising. If the bruises are swollen you can apply ice for 15 minutes each hour. Bruises will typically take 10 days to a couple weeks to heal, depending on their size and severity.
2. Relief for Sore Muscles
Sore muscles can leave you feeling stiff and uncomfortable. Ice packs help reduce the swelling of sore muscles and will often help with the pain as well. If you're muscles are sore due to stress or tension, take a long, hot shower to relax. Some people find it beneficial to alternate heat for pain relief and ice for swelling. Remember to only use each treatment method once an hour, and for no more than 15 minutes at a time.
3. Painful Sprains
Sprains can be very uncomfortable; they can also last for several days. If you think you've suffered a severe sprain, see a physician to make sure you didn't break a bone. If the joint is too swollen, you may need to return the next day for further tests. Once you determine you're dealing with a sprain, apply ice to the area. The ice will help reduce swelling and prevent further swelling. Take acetaminophen to help control the discomfort, as this medicine also has an anti-inflammatory component. Keep the sprain elevated above the heart. Some people find that wrapping a sprain can provide support and prevent further swelling. Sometimes, however, a wrapped sprain causes more discomfort.
4. Ease the Burn
Minor burns happen all the time, and they can cause a lot of discomfort. You may get sunburn, put a curling iron too close to your forehead or graze the top of a hot stove. If it's a localized spot, run it under cold water. If it's a sunburn, take a cool shower. Avoid any type of lotion or moisturizer as these trap the heat in; you want to release the heat from your skin. Obviously, you can't spend all day in the shower, but you can apply a cool, damp cloth to the area to help pull heat away from your body. If the pain persists, or the burn is anything other than very superficial, contact a doctor for pain relief and further treatment.
