The Natural First Aid Handbook
Page 5
2.If the chemical was wet, remove any contaminated clothing and then rinse the victim repeatedly with plenty of cool water for about 10 minutes.
3.If the chemical was inhaled, get the victim into fresh air as soon as possible. Open windows, get her outside, do whatever it takes. Encourage the individual to breathe deeply and evenly. Loosen tight clothing. If possible, stop the source of the fumes by turning off the car, stove, or any other possible source.
Follow-Up Care for Chemical Contamination
After an episode of contamination poisoning, eat foods high in pectin, such as apples and carrots, which will help flush out remaining contaminants. Drink 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of green clay dissolved in 1 cup (240 ml) of water daily for 2 weeks; the clay will absorb toxins and then will be excreted. Eat a low-fat diet to help prevent poisons from being absorbed deeper into the body. And include miso soup and seaweed in your diet, as both contain substances that will bind with some chemical residues and carry them out of the body.
Milk thistle seed can help protect the liver from absorbing poisons. Take two 500-mg capsules 3 times daily for several weeks following the poisoning episode.
Shiitake and reishi mushrooms are helpful adaptogens, substances that help the body acclimate to stress. Take two 500-mg capsules of either one (or 1 capsule of each) 3 times daily for several weeks.
You may also want to drink teas made with purifying herbs such as burdock root, dandelion root, and red clover blossoms. Drink 3 or 4 cups daily for several weeks following the poisoning episode.
Choking
Seek immediate medical attention if:
Any foreign object obstructing the airway cannot be dislodged
The individual is not breathing
The individual’s breathing is noisy
A bluish color appears around the lips and ears
You are forced to perform abdominal thrusts
While you wait for medical attention:
1.Encourage the person who is choking to cough — this may be enough to dislodge any blockage.
2.If she is having trouble coughing or breathing, ask if she is choking: If she can cough or speak, let the individual attempt to expel the blockage without help.
If she can’t cough but is breathing, the airway is partially obstructed. Arrange for immediate transport to an emergency medical facility to remove the blockage.
If she cannot speak, cough, or breathe, the individual is choking. Get someone to call for medical help while you perform lifesaving abdominal thrusts.
Follow-Up Care for Choking
After the blockage has been expelled or removed, a cup of slippery elm or marshmallow root tea or papaya juice will soothe an irritated throat.
Cuts
See Bleeding
Diaper Rash
A diaper rash is characterized by red, chapped skin. It can be caused and aggravated by diapers left on too long, plastic pants, food sensitivities, and yeast growth. It most often occurs with babies, but it can also happen to older people suffering from incontinence.
At-Home First Aid for Diaper Rash
Here’s what you can do to relieve your baby’s discomfort and heal his or her bottom:
Household Remedies
Exposure. Expose the baby’s bottom to fresh air by laying him or her on the diaper rather than fastening it. When the baby does wear diapers, change them frequently. Avoid disposable diapers, and avoid rubber or plastic pants.
Apple cider vinegar. If you launder your own cloth diapers, add 1⁄4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar to the final rinse water.
Diet. Diaper rash may occur when either the mother’s or the baby’s diet has become overly acidic. It may indicate that tomatoes, citrus products, sweets, and even fruits are being overconsumed or are otherwise aggravating. Try reducing amounts of these foods first. If that doesn’t work, talk to your doctor about eliminating them completely.
Ointment. The pharmacy favorite, vitamin A & D ointment, is a safe and effective treatment. Follow the package directions.
Calendula. Salves or teas made with calendula can be applied to soothe the irritation and promote healing. Apply after every diaper change.
Yogurt. Plain, raw yogurt can also be applied to soothe and help heal the rash.
Prevention of Diaper Rash
Consider giving your baby a probiotic supplement that is specifically formulated for infants. If you’re nursing, you may also want to use a probiotic supplement designed for adults. Probiotics are an array of friendly bacteria that naturally occur in yogurt and other lacto-fermented foods such as sauerkraut; probiotics help replenish friendly intestinal flora.
Diarrhea
Seek immediate medical attention if the individual:
Has blood in his or her stool
Vomits
Has dry, sticky saliva
Has dark, concentrated, or scanty urine
Has a temperature of 103°F (39°C) or more with a fast pulse, lethargy, and sunken eyes
Does not improve within a week (or within 24 hours, if an infant)
While you wait for medical attention:
Give frequent sips of water or, if available, an electrolyte beverage. Avoid drinking juices.
At-Home First Aid for Diarrhea
Diarrhea is often nature’s way of eliminating something that probably shouldn’t be in the body in the first place. That’s why it’s always best to try to determine the cause of the problem. Possible causes include viruses, bacteria, intestinal parasites, side effects from medication, overuse of laxatives, and food intolerance. It is common for people to experience cramping along with the runs. Here are a few suggestions for soothing the intestinal tract while it’s under attack:
Fluid Therapy
Diarrhea can often lead to dehydration, so increase fluid intake. Make sure the beverage is at room temperature, and drink in small sips. Following are some healing formulations:
Carob Powder. 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of carob powder blended into 1 cup (240 ml) of spring water is an excellent remedy that can be used for children as well as adults.
Green Clay. 1 teaspoon (5 ml) green clay mixed with 1 cup (240 ml) water.
Herbal Teas. The following teas are recommended: blackberry leaf (for mild cases of diarrhea), blackberry root (for stronger cases), strawberry leaf (especially good for infants), or cinnamon bark, raspberry leaf, or white oak bark.
Slippery Elm. A spoonful of slippery elm powder and a pinch of ginger powder mixed with a cup of hot water, taken every hour or two, will help relieve symptoms.
Electrolyte Rehydration Drink
Whenever someone’s been dehydrated by illness or injury, make them an electrolyte-rich beverage by adding 1⁄8 teaspoon (0.5 ml) each of baking soda and sea salt to 8 ounces (240 ml) of water.
Household Remedies
Diet. Try the BRAT diet. BRAT is an acronym for bananas, rice, applesauce, and tea or burnt toast. Other beneficial foods include yogurt with active cultures, cooked carrots, miso soup, and oatmeal.
Charcoal absorbs toxins. Take two 500-mg activated charcoal capsules every 2 hours (while you’re awake) to stop even the most stubborn cases. Continue treatment for a day or two after diarrhea has stopped.
Umeboshi plum paste. Stir 1 teaspoon into a cup of hot water and drink every 2 hours (while awake — discontinue while sleeping). Take an additional 3 times daily for 1 to 2 days after diarrhea has stopped.
Supplements
Psyllium seed. Although it’s usually used as a laxative, psyllium can solidify the stool. Take two 500-mg capsules 3 times a day or stir 1 rounded teaspoon (5 ml) of psyllium into a bit of water.
Electrolytes. Since diarrhea causes a loss of minerals, use an electrolyte supplement from a natural food store or make an Electrolyte Rehydration Drink.
Probiotics. A probiotic supplement may also help by encouraging your intestine to recolonize itself with friendly bacteria that work to prevent future problems. Follow dosage instructions on the package.
Homeopathic Rem
edies
Take 4 pellets dissolved under the tongue 4 times daily of the appropriate remedy for the situation described.
Arsenicum album. Use for food poisoning and sudden-onset conditions in which the affected individual is restless, so weak he or she wants to lie down, and doesn’t want to be left alone. Other indications: The individual is worse in early morning or after midnight and feels chilled and thirsty but only drinks small amounts of water at a time. Sometimes the stool is acidic and irritates the rectum. The individual may also vomit, especially after consuming food or drink.
Nux vomica. Use when the affected individual is irritable and oversensitive to light, noise, and odor; when food poisoning is suspected; or when the diarrhea has been brought on by over-indulgence in food or alcohol. Other indications: The individual may complain of chills, have poor appetite, and feel worse in the morning. There is usually abdominal cramping. Elimination gives temporary relief, but the stool is scanty and contains mucus.
Phosphorus is indicated when diarrhea is copious and without pain. Other indications: The patient is weak, very thirsty, inclined to vomit, and easily startled. He or she may also have night sweats.
Podophyllin is often used for sudden-onset children’s diarrhea when it is painless yet profuse. The stools are often watery and yellowish-green with a bad odor. The condition is often aggravated by teething, eating, a fruit binge, moving around, or overexcitement.
Sulphur is indicated for diarrhea that is worse at 5:00 or 6:00 a.m. The odor is sulfurous, like rotten eggs, and the anal area may be irritated.
For children, I suggest chamomilla (2 pellets dissolved under the tongue 4 times daily). It’s especially useful in cases of children who are irritable and want to be held. Other indications: the diarrhea was brought on by fear and nervousness; the child is usually worse in the evening; one cheek may be red, the other pale; the diarrhea is often greenish with mucus.
Chinese Medicine
Acupressure. Massaging around the navel for 2 minutes in a circular motion is an effective acupressure technique.
Drowning
(See also Shock )
Seek immediate medical attention for all rescued drowning victims.
While you wait for medical attention:
1.If the individual is not breathing, begin CPR.
2.Once the individual is breathing, turn the victim onto his or her sidein the recovery position.
3.Rub the feet, hands, and ears to encourage good circulation. Keep the individual warm. Do not administer food or drink.
4.If the patient is conscious, consider homeopathic remedies, if available. Rescue Remedy is helpful for shock — 2 drops under the tongue. Try 4 pellets dissolved under the tongue of any of the following for the particular conditions described: Antimonium tartaricum for near drowning when the victim is bluish and cold, covered with sweat, and has rattling breath
Aconitum for shock, fear
Arsenicum for fear and anxiety
5.When the patient revives, offer ginger tea. Once the patient is conscious and breathing easily, ginger tea can help warm the body and calm nausea.
Follow-Up Care for Drowning
Following the instructions on the bottle, take garlic and ginkgo supplements for a few days following an almost-drowning episode. Garlic will help prevent a lung infection, and ginkgo helps the body better utilize oxygen.
Drug/Alcohol Overdose
(See also Alcohol Poisoning )
Seek immediate medical attention if the individual:
Has a slow pulse
Has difficulty breathing
Has paled in complexion and is sweating
Cannot be roused
Is vomiting
Is diabetic
Has taken drugs with alcohol
While you wait for medical attention:
1.If breathing stops, check the airway for an obstruction and begin CPR.
2.If the individual convulses, do not administer anything or induce vomiting. After convulsions have subsided, place the individualin the recovery position so fluids can drain from her mouth.
3.Ask the victim what she has taken as soon as possible in case she loses consciousness. If the victim is conscious, give 2 activated charcoal capsules, 500 mg each, taken with a glass of water.
If the victim has overdosed on alcohol, barbiturates, tranquilizers, or opiate derivatives and is conscious, also give her strong black tea or coffee as a stimulant.
4.Loosen clothing to help keep the airway open. Open a window to allow fresh air in.
5.Keep the individual calm. Keep her away from crowds, bright lights, intense movement, and loud sounds, all of which can worsen the crisis.
6.Gather a sample of any vomit, drugs, syringes, or containers associated with the overdose. Give it to medical personnel when they arrive.
Follow-Up Care for Drug/Alcohol Overdose
To prevent a hangover: Take 1 teaspoon of honey or a 100-mg B-complex tablet before bed and upon arising. Drink plenty of fluids. A shot of angostura bitters in the morning will also help.
Ear Injury
Seek immediate medical attention if:
Any part of the ear is detached
The victim cannot hear from one or both ears
Fluid is leaking from the ear
While you wait for medical attention:
1.Elevate the victim’s head.
2.If the eardrum has been perforated, place a clean piece of gauze in the outer ear to provide protection. Do not clean the ear or stop any fluid from leaking out.
3.If there are any wounds, lightly apply a dressing using even pressure.
4.Place the individual on his or her injured side to allow fluid to drain. Place a small pillow under the head and shoulders.
Follow-Up Care for Ear Injury
If an infection develops, check with your doctor and consider taking echinacea every couple of hours while you’re awake — 1 dropperful of tincture, 1 cup (240 ml) of tea, or two 500-mg capsules.
Electric Shock
(See also Shock )
Seek immediate medical attention!
Remember, electric burns may be deeper than what is apparent on the skin. Even a tiny burn mark can indicate serious injuries.
While you wait for medical attention:
1.Check to see if the victim is breathing.
2.If he or she is not breathing, begin CPR.
Breaking the Circuit
The most important point to remember is this: Don’t touch someone who is still in contact with an electric current! You could get shocked as well. Here are some tips for approaching the victim of an electric shock so you can begin first aid.
Turn off the electricity by pulling the plug or shutting down the circuit that affects the outlet involved.
Be careful not to step in any liquids — including the victim’s urine, which can conduct current.
Be aware that simply pulling the plug may not shut off the electricity. Before you pull the victim away from whatever caused the shock, make sure you are standing on something insulated and dry such as a thick book, rubber mat, blanket, newspaper, or wooden box.
Do not touch the victim until the current is broken. If you’re not sure whether or not the circuit is broken, use a long, nonconducting item like a stick, branch, dry rope, towel, or anything else that isn’t metal, doesn’t contain metal, and isn’t damp to help remove the victim.
Follow-Up Care for Electric Shock
Treat the person with 1 dropperful of black walnut tincture given orally 3 or 4 times daily for 3 to 4 days. Black walnut contains ellagic acid, which may help people recover from electric shock by stimulating the nervous system.
Four pellets of homeopathic phosphorus can be taken, dissolved under the tongue, every half hour for 2 to 3 days after the shock to help the patient, who may be weak, fearful, and anxious.
Eyes — Heat and Chemical Burns
Seek immediate medical attention if:
The victim complains of a burning sensati
on in his or her eyes
While you wait for medical attention:
1.Flush the affected eye with a gentle stream of water for at least 5 minutes. Do not rub. Do not pause to remove contact lenses. If the victim does wear contacts, simply engage the drain stopper so that the contacts don’t wash down the drain. If just one eye is contaminated, make sure the victim’s head is tilted with the contaminated eye down. That way, chemicals will not be washed from one eye to the other.
2.If the victim’s eyes have been burned by an acid, flush the eyes a second time with a solution of 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking soda in 1 quart (950 ml) of water.
3.After rinsing, cover the affected eyes with a clean, dry cloth or bandage. Do not use cotton balls, which can leave particles in the skin.
4.If the victim’s eyes have been burned by heat, such as from spitting fat or fire embers, follow the instructions above, then cover both eyes with a cold-water compress.