Intense and prolonged bleeding after a major injury

Intense and prolonged bleeding after a major injury indicates a significant and sustained loss of blood following a traumatic event. This symptom can be caused by various conditions, including blood clotting disorders, vascular injuries, or severe trauma. Signs to watch for include:

• Heavy and continuous bleeding from the injury site that doesn’t stop or slow down with standard first aid measures.
• Swelling and bruising around the injury site due to extensive bleeding into the tissues.
• Pallor and weakness, indicating significant blood loss.
• Rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure (hypotension), which may indicate hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition caused by severe blood loss.
• Dizziness and fainting due to decreased blood volume.

Immediate medical attention is essential to manage the bleeding, identify and treat the underlying causes, and prevent complications such as shock or organ damage. Treatment may include pressure application, sutures, transfusions, and medications to promote clotting.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology