Spot the Danger Early – A Real Case Story
A recent case reminded us how crucial it is to never overlook trauma in children, even if it seems minor.
A 3 year-old child came to us with profuse bleeding from the tongue, two days after accidentally biting it. What initially seemed like a harmless injury had developed into an immature blood clot (jelly clot). The parents thought the bleeding had stopped, but the clot was weak and unstable.
By the time they sought medical attention, the child was bleeding heavily. We had to act immediately to clear the jelly clot and identify the bleeding vessel. Thankfully, timely intervention prevented further complications.
Key Takeaways for Parents:
1. What is an immature blood clot (jelly clot)?
- It’s an early, unstable clot that forms after injury.
- Such clots can easily dislodge, causing unexpected heavy bleeding.
2. Why does this happen?
Areas like the tongue are highly vascular (rich in blood vessels).
Tongue injuries often bleed more and take longer to heal, making them prone to clot instability.
3. When to be concerned:
- Bleeding that seems to stop but recurs suddenly.
- Swelling or discoloration around the injured area.
- Excessive salivation or difficulty eating/speaking.
4. Immediate Steps to Take:
- Apply firm, gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop initial bleeding.
- Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
- Do not assume it’s healed—monitor closely for 24-48 hours.
5. Seek Medical Attention if:
- Bleeding persists or recurs after stopping.
- The injured area appears jelly-like or swollen.
- Your child complains of persistent pain.
Remember:
What might seem minor could have serious implications, especially in children. Any injury involving the tongue, lips, or face deserves careful monitoring. Don’t wait—act early to prevent complications.
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