!Abdomen Injuries and Wounds

When to suspect abdomen injury
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If the belly has suffered a blow, such as from a hard fall, vehicle 
accident, or getting hit or kicked, look for bruises which are signs 
of bleeding trapped in the body. Too much bleeding inside the body can 
lead to shock. Also watch for these signs of serious injury to the 
abdomen:

Danger signs
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 * Severe pain
 * Confusion
 * Belly hard like a board, or growing larger
 * Signs of blood loss: feeling faint, growing pale, fast pulse

For any of these danger signs, treat for shock and get help. Do not 
give any food or drink. See Belly Pain, Diarrhea, and Worms in *Where 
There Is No Doctor* for more on emergencies of the abdomen.

If part of the gut spills out of the body, cover it with a clean cloth 
soaked in lightly salted water and get help. Do not push the guts back 
in.

An object sticking out of the body
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For an object sticking out of the abdomen, it is usually safest to 
leave it in and get help. Even if help is days away, do not pull out 
the object. Secure it in place with bandages or fabric.

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from NEW WHERE THERE IS NO DOCTOR ©
Hesperian Health Guides 1919 Addison St Ste 304 Berkeley CA 94704
1.510.845.1447 hesperian@hesperian.org
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