Haemorrhage Explained: Types, Causes, and Life-Threatening Risks
A haemorrhage refers to excessive bleeding caused by damaged blood vessels either internally or externally through a bruise or injury. Having a haemorrhage can be a terrifying experience, as the rapid and sudden blood loss can affect several vital organs, depriving them of oxygen and thereby hindering their functioning. If not controlled in time, the condition could be life-threatening. At Zenzo, where emergency response and patient safety are at the core of our services, we believe that awareness and timely action play a critical role in saving lives.
Understanding the signs of a haemorrhage, the primary first-aid steps, and the associated risk factors is essential to ensure prompt care and support during such critical situations. In this article, we shall cover haemorrhage in detail, starting from its symptoms, causes, and types, to the risk factors linked with it and a thorough first-aid guide to help you be better prepared for emergency situations. But first, let us start by understanding what haemorrhage really is.
What is Haemorrhage?
Haemorrhage is a term used to describe excessive bleeding (internal or external) caused by an injury or bursting of blood vessels. This bleeding can occur within the body, commonly referred to as internal haemorrhage, or flow outside the body through an open wound, also known as external haemorrhage. While minor bleeding isn’t considered dangerous, excessive bleeding could result in coma, organ failure, or death. In case of a brain hemorrhage, immediate medical intervention is a must, as it could lead to severe neurological damage. The severity of a haemorrhage depends on several factors, such as the origin of the bleeding, the amount of blood loss, and the pace at which the bleeding is taking place.
In most cases, hemorrhages are considered medical emergencies. However, to better judge the severity of the condition, it is important to know its types and symptoms.
What are the Types of Haemorrhage?
There are several types of haemorrhages, mainly classified according to their severity, location, and the kind of blood vessel involved. Some of the common types include:
1. External Haemorrhage
As the name suggests, external haemorrhage is a condition in which the bleeding is visible to the naked eye. It could be through cuts on the body, an injury, an open wound, or operations. While this type is easy to detect and treat, a lack of timely management can be life-threatening. Immediate treatment involves using a damp cloth and applying firm pressure to the wound to prevent severe bleeding. It is also recommended to keep the wound elevated above the heart level to reduce the blood flow.
2. Internal Haemorrhage
Internal haemorrhage is characterised by bleeding inside the body, such as within the organs, tissues, and other bodily cavities. Such bleeding is hard to identify as it isn’t visible to the eyes; however, symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, or abdominal swelling may be prevalent. One of the major reasons why internal haemorrhage is considered to be dangerous is because of its ability to progress rapidly without any major signs.
3. Arterial Haemorrhage
Our arteries perform the function of transporting oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the entire body. When an artery bursts or undergoes damage, bright red blood starts to spurt with every heartbeat, resulting in arterial haemorrhage. This type of bleeding is rapid and life-threatening, and therefore requires immediate medical intervention. A minute’s delay in emergency care could result in severe complications such as permanent disability, organ failure, or death.
4. Venous Haemorrhage
Unlike arteries, veins are responsible for returning deoxygenated blood to the heart. When a vein gets damaged, dark red blood starts flowing, resulting in venous haemorrhage. Although the bleeding is comparatively slower than arterial haemorrhage, this, too, can be life-threatening. Prompt interventions are needed for major blood loss and other complications.
5. Capillary Haemorrhage
Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that are responsible for transporting nutrients and oxygen to the body. Bleeding from them is often slow and less severe than that of veins or arteries. In some cases, the bleeding may resolve on its own; however, patients with widespread capillary bleeding require timely medical intervention and care to prevent any further damage.
6. Cerebral Haemorrhage
Commonly referred to as a brain bleed, cerebral haemorrhage is a condition in which, due to a ruptured blood vessel, the blood starts to leak into the brain tissues and surrounding spaces. Common causes of cerebral haemorrhage include head injury, trauma, or chronic hypertension.
What are the warning signs and symptoms of haemorrhage?
Identifying haemorrhage can be tricky at times, especially in cases of internal haemorrhage. However, knowing the warning signs and symptoms of haemorrhage can help prevent rapid bleeding and ensure timely care, thereby improving patient outcomes and survival chances. Some of the major haemorrhaging signs and symptoms include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Dizziness or weakness
- Rapid heartbeats
- Low blood pressure
- Unexplained bruising or swelling
- Confusion or agitation
- Coughing or vomiting blood
- Vision changes or a severe headache
What Causes Haemorrhage?
1. Trauma
Traumatic events such as accidents, severe injuries, damage caused by medical surgeries, etc., are some of the major haemorrhage causes. These factors can cause blood vessels to rupture, leading to excessive bleeding.
2. Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions, such as bleeding disorders, tumours, cancer, and other infections, can damage the blood vessels, resulting in haemorrhage. As such, bleeding is often internal, it remains unnoticed and untreated for a long time.
3. Medications
Medications like blood thinners reduce the blood’s ability to clot, making even minor injuries or internal bleeding more severe. Therefore, healthcare providers often warn patients regarding it before starting the particular treatment.
4. Pregnancy and Childbirth
Some women undergo excessive bleeding after childbirth. This condition is known as postpartum haemorrhage. One of the major factors responsible for the condition includes uterine atony, that is, the uterus’s inability to contract effectively, which affects normal clot formation.
How to Provide Emergency Aid in Case of Haemorrhage?
As mentioned above, haemorrhage causes severe complications and can be life-threatening if emergency care is delayed. Here are some steps you could use to help someone experiencing a haemorrhage.
- Assess the wound and apply direct pressure: If the person is displaying excessive bleeding from a wound, use a fresh cloth and apply direct pressure to stop the bleeding.
- Use a tourniquet: If the wound is on the arm or the leg and the bleeding doesn’t seem to stop, use a tourniquet and tie it 2-3 inches above the wound. Note the application time and seek immediate medical help, as prolonged use could cause tissue damage.
- Keep the wound elevated: Ensure that the wound is kept elevated above the heart level to reduce bleeding.
- Avoid certain things: If the bleeding is caused by a deeply embedded object, do not remove it, as it could increase the bleeding. Avoid checking the wound over and over again. Lastly, do not apply pressure if the injury has affected the eye.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of haemorrhages, their symptoms, causes, and the appropriate steps to take in such situations can be life-saving. Prompt recognition and timely medical intervention are crucial, as severe blood loss can lead to weakness, organ failure, shock, and even death. When it comes to haemorrhage, don’t hesitate to seek help. Your quick action could save a life and ensure reduced complications.
FAQ’s
- How can I tell if I have a haemorrhage?
If you experience excessive bleeding, it is a clear sign of a haemorrhage. In terms of internal bleeding, symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin may occur.
- 2. Can haemorrhage be prevented?
While not all haemorrhages can be prevented, their risks can be reduced by ensuring timely care and precautions. This includes managing underlying medical conditions, taking blood thinners under appropriate supervision, and wearing protective gear to prevent injuries.
- Is there any long-term effect of haemorrhage?
Haemorrhage, if not treated in time, could lead to severe long-term problems such as organ failure, permanent disability, or coma.
