Treating Road Rashes - a Quick Guide
Road rashes are prevalent after motorcycle accidents. It can lead to significant disfigurement and loss of mobility in the victims. Therefore, you must seek professional help from doctors and a motorcycle accident lawyer if you suspect anything after the crash. Here are some tips for treating road rashes of different degrees.
First-degree road rash
If you do not have any other injuries resulting from the accident, road rash treatment of first-degree can be done at your home. It generally includes low-level abrasion of the skin. The rash does not take more than 2 to 3 weeks to heal. If you are considering curing your first-degree road rash on your own, make sure to cleanse your hands properly. This is because unclean hands are prone to bacterial infection. Make sure to wash the injury properly with the help of lukewarm water. This helps remove debris or dirt particles from the wound to avoid scrubbing it.
If you cannot clean all the debris from the wound, get professional help. The process of cleansing can be discomforting, but it is necessary to avoid any infections later on. Make sure to put a layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic salve. You can follow it up with a dressing. Petroleum jelly helps hydrate the wound, so it does not get dried up. Make sure to reapply the dressing daily until the wound is healed to protect it from infections. Consult a doctor if you notice any infection symptoms or improper wound healing.
Second-Degree Road Rash
Second-degree road rash is, in the word, damage to the outer and internal parts of the skin. However, the damage is not significant enough to get inside the muscles and other tissues. If you have been a victim of second-degree road rash, make sure to schedule an appointment with a medical practitioner. They help in cleaning the wound for the removal of dirt and debris. They follow it up with the application of antibiotic ointment and a protective dressing. If the patient is experiencing extreme discomfort, they may be prescribed medicines to alleviate the pain.
Third-Degree Road Rash
Third-degree road rashes are severe. The victims are encouraged to avoid treating it on their own. They are advised to go for an emergency visit to a medical professional to prevent the damage. Third-degree road rashes affect nerve endings, which can have damaging consequences for the nerves, and the victim may experience sensory issues. If you do not experience any pain after the accident, make sure to get your wound checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Delayed treatment can lead to increased chances of fatality.