The fall sports season is well underway for kids and parent volunteers are essential to the success of youth sport programs. This year, I took on the challenge of running the First Aid table for two of my son’s meets. Sure, there were a few bumped and bruised knees, and one bloody nose. But by far the most common injuries I encountered among the kids were the scrapes and cuts, road rash and abrasions, after they took tumbles. What’s the best way to treat these scrapes and cuts to minimize the risk of infection in the short term and scarring … Continue reading »
Over the Fourth-of-July weekend, most of us will be participating in outdoors activities and joining summer festivities. With outside fun comes the risk of scraped knees, dermatitis, insect bites or heat rash. Here are four rescue tips for summer skin emergencies, so you and your family can enjoy a safe and worry-free holiday. #1 Road Rash Kids and grownups alike are hopping on their bikes, buckling on their skates, and even bouncing around on pogo sticks! With all of this activity comes the inevitable dangers of tumbles, bumps, and bruises and scrapes. Your holiday rescue: The first step in dealing … Continue reading »
I recently returned from the American Academy of Dermatology’s annual meeting, where I was chairing a symposium entitled “Wounds and Ulcers, The Good, The Bad and The Ugly”. While an elaborate topic for a blog post, it reminded me that many of my patients often ask for advice on how to best care for their wound. Below are my answers to the most common questions about wound care. 1. Shouldn’t I leave my wound open to the air so it can breathe? NO. Wounds heal much faster when they are left moist and covered 2. What should I use to … Continue reading »
