In many emergency situations, the stable lateral position is enormously important and can even save lives. A driving test is usually the first time you come into contact with the stable lateral position. But what has remained in your head? We refresh your knowledge.

What exactly is the stable lateral position?

The main purpose of the stable lateral position is to ensure a free airway. In addition, lateral positioning can ensure that vomit or blood can drain
properly. In emergency situations, this can help an unconscious person to breathe.
If a person is unconscious, the airways may be restricted and the person may have difficulty breathing. It is not unusual for a person to become unconscious. Unconsciousness can quickly occur due to various influences. These include, for example, serious accidents or circulatory problems. In the worst case, respiratory arrest can also occur.
The stable lateral position is intended to help prevent this from happening. This can save lives in many situations. But when exactly do you use the recovery position? It depends on a few small things. And indeed, a stable lateral position is not recommended in all situations.

When do I have to use the recovery position?

The recovery position is not always the right solution in emergencies, because it depends on the situation. In principle, the recovery position should only be used on unconscious people. But this is not always correct. It is also not advisable to use the recovery position on unconscious people who are breathing rapidly. In this case, it is better to use resuscitation measures.
Another sign for the application of the stable side position is when the affected person is threatening to suffocate. Then it is absolutely necessary to lay the person on their side. The airways are cleared and the person gets better air.
If injuries to the back or spine are visible, it is better not to lay the affected person on their side. Otherwise, the injuries may cause further injuries. Nevertheless, an unconscious person lying on his or her back should be observed closely. If the person starts vomiting or suddenly stops breathing, you should be able to react quickly. Thus, it is still important to stay in the immediate vicinity while waiting for further help.

How exactly do I apply the recovery position?

People who have a driving licence usually had to take a first aid course. However, a lot of things are forgotten after a short time and only a little remains in the mind. To avoid making mistakes in emergency situations, it is enormously important to refresh your knowledge again and again. If you find yourself in an emergency situation where the application of a stable lateral position is required, follow the instructions below.

Instructions for the stable lateral position

Step 1
In the first step, you should check whether the affected person is still conscious and whether breathing is present. If there is no breathing, then you should immediately perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. If the person is unconscious and breathing, you can apply the recovery position.
To do this, first kneel sideways next to the affected person. Then stretch out the legs of the person concerned and place the arm closer to you bent on the floor. The palm of the hand points upwards.
Step 2
In the next step, grasp the wrist of the far arm of the unconscious person. Then cross the arm in front of the affected person’s chest and place the hand against the cheek. You should continue to hold the hand firmly and not let go.
Step 3
Then reach for the thigh lying further away and place the leg bent. The hand remains on the thigh. Then slowly pull the person towards you and place the leg at a right angle to the hip.
Step 4
In the next step, tilt the head backwards so that the airways are clear. Then open your mouth slightly and point your mouth towards the floor. This makes it easier for vomit or blood to flow out. The hand resting on the cheek should be directed in such a way that the neck continues to be tilted backwards and the airways remain free.
Step 5
If the affected person is finally lying on his or her side, it becomes important to continue to observe the person. In addition, you should immediately call emergency number and request further help. Observe for breathing, consciousness and signs of life. If breathing stops, you should immediately start resuscitation measures.

Tips for the application of the stable lateral position

To avoid making mistakes and panicking in an emergency situation, here are a few important tips:

• Keep calm.
• Always check breathing.
• Check for further injuries, as well as vomiting and bleeding in the mouth area.
• The head should always be tilted backwards in the lateral position and the mouth should be slightly open.
• Dial the emergency number and request further help.
• In case of cardiac arrest, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Another tip is our TarisApp. Because with our TarisApp you can not only dial the emergency call, but also ask medically trained personnel in the immediate vicinity for help. This way, you can ensure professional first aid if you feel too insecure yourself or are unable to provide first aid. It can take up to 15 minutes for the paramedics to arrive. In this time, the affected person should be helped as best as possible. You can find out more about our TarisApp.
Other articles:

• The First Aid ABC and ABCDE: What’s behind them?
• First Aid: What to do when my help is needed?
• Shock: What exactly happens in a state of shock?

Sources and further links: 

• https://www.malteser.de/aware/hilfreich/stabile-seitenlage-daraufmusst-du-achten.html
• https://www.drk.de/hilfe-in-deutschland/erste-hilfe/stabile-seitenlage/
• https://www.quarks.de/gesundheit/medizin/wie-wichtig-ist-die-stabileseitenlage

Picture credits: ©Envatoelements

There are many different situations in which you should give first aid. But when do I really have to give first aid and how can I help? These are questions that occupy many unenlightened people. The ABC of First Aid and the ABCDE of First Aid can help. We will enlighten you.

What is the ABC of First Aid?

The First Aid ABC is primarily used to provide an overview of the many different emergency situations. With our overview, you can see at a glance which emergency situations can arise in everyday life. If you would like to learn more about a topic, simply click on the emergency situation. You can then find out more about a topic in our specialist articles. Because in every emergency situation you have to pay attention to other special features. For trained rescue workers, there is also a general guide for emergencies.
But general tips can also help you in an emergency situation. If you are in shock or overwhelmed with the situation in an emergency, you still have our TarisApp. With our app, you can not only dial the emergency number, but also ask medically trained staff nearby for help. This allows you to bridge the long waiting time until the emergency services arrive with professional help. Because in an emergency, every second counts!

The First Aid ABC

• Anaphylactic shock
• Acute diseases
•  Shortness of breath
• Epileptic seizure
• Concussion
• Heart attack
• Fainting
• Electric injury
• Sunstroke
• Shock
• Stroke
• Burns

What is the difference to the First Aid ABCDE?

The First Aid ABCDE is a specific scheme for the provision of first aid by the emergency services. Paramedics learn to apply the ABCDE scheme during training and thus this scheme is part of the routine. The ABCDE scheme is intended to ensure the best possible first aid performance when the paramedics arrive. A paramedic always follows the following 5 steps.

A for Airway

When the emergency services arrive at the scene of the accident, the first step is to check the airways. You must make sure that the airways are clear. If the airways are not clear, the victim can only be supplied with oxygen to a limited extent. This can have further consequences for the brain, for example. If the brain is not supplied with enough oxygen, longterm damage can occur.
Thus, a paramedic must first expose the airways. There are different methods for this. Depending on the situation, the paramedic uses a different method. In many cases, people who are unconscious swallow their own tongue. In this case, it is necessary to act quickly and unblock the airway with the tongue.

B for Breathing

Once the airways are cleared, the next step is to check the breathing of th person concerned. Is there breathing? Is there only weak breathing? Or is the affected person breathing normally for the most part? Here, paramedics have to pay attention to different points. Above all, seeing, hearing and feeling should help.
Because breathing can be seen, for example, when the chest rises and falls. But breathing can also be heard. Paramedics approach the face of the affected person and listen for breathing. Seeing and hearing can then be further supported by feeling. If there is no breathing, the paramedic will start oxygenation. If breathing is present, they move on to the next step.

C for Circulation

During circulation, a paramedic checks the pulse, the colour of the skin, the temperature, the humidity and possible bleeding on the body. The first step is to check the pulse. The main artery on the neck or wrist helps with this. The paramedic then observes the pulse rate. Then the skin is checked to see if it is pale. In addition, the temperature of the person affected is checked and whether the person is sweating.
Once these points have been worked through, the affected person is examined for possible bleeding. If there is bleeding, it must be stopped as soon as possible to stabilise the circulation. If the affected person continues to lose blood, it is difficult to stabilise the circulation.

D like Disabillity (neurological condition)

Disabillity is about the neurological functions or limitations of the person affected. Among other things, the pupil reaction or orientation is checked. Light is usually used to check the reaction. These methods should provide information as to whether the neurological condition is impaired.
The examination is supported by further methods or by applying further schemes. If there are signs of impairment of the neurological condition, the paramedics can transport the affected person to an appropriate specialised clinic. This can prevent further damage to the nervous system.

E like Exposure (undressing)

In the last step, affected persons are always undressed so that further injuries are not overlooked. In this way, injuries that are not visible at first sight can be diagnosed and treated. If further injuries are overlooked and thus not treated, this can be enormously dangerous for the affected person.
However, undressing can also serve to relieve pain and protect against environmental influences. It is important for paramedics to ensure that the person does not get hypothermic when undressing.

Conclusion

The First Aid ABC serves as an orientation about possible emergency situations, while the First Aid ABCDE is primarily intended to serve as an aid for trained paramedics. However, the ABCDE scheme can also be interesting for non-trained paramedics and serve as an orientation in an emergency. Nevertheless, the ABCDE scheme is mainly intended for trained medical personnel. If you want to know how to act in an emergency, read our article “Providing first aid: whatto dowhen my help is needed?”.
Other articles:

• Provide first aid: In case of acute illnesses!
• First aid for a tick bite: What can be done?

Sources and further links:

•  https://www.thieme.de/statics/dokumente/thieme/final/de/dokumente/tw_anaesthesiologie/8.2_ABCDE-Schema_neu.pdf

Picture credits: ©Envatoelements

More and more people are affected by acute illnesses. These people are dependent on further help, such as medication or, in emergencies, first aid. But what does acute illness mean and how can you help in an emergency situation? We will tell you about first aid for acute illnesses.

Which acute illnesses require first aid measures?

Acute diseases are diseases that occur suddenly and have only a short duration of symptoms. However, acute diseases are permanent and can occur again and again. The illnesses are dependent on different factors. The more severely one is affected by an acute illness, the more severe the symptoms that occur.
Then, in most cases, only medication can help. If a situation with severe symptoms arises and no medication is at hand, it can quickly become dangerous. That is why first aid is often necessary even for acute illnesses.
The most common acute illnesses include:

• Bronchial asthma
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Hypoglycaemia
• Hyperglycaemia

How can first aid be given in acute illnesses?

If you want to give first aid, it depends on the acute illness. The measures vary from illness to illness. Should an emergency situation arise, you can also rely on our TarisApp.
With our app, you can request help quickly and easily via your smartphone. This alerts medically trained personnel in the immediate vicinity and asks for help. This way, you can ensure good and safe first aid until the emergency services arrive. Learn more about our app right here.
So that you can still provide first aid in the event of acute illness, we have compiled the most important information for you.

Bronchial asthma

With asthma, you are affected by recurrent infections in the airways. This often leads to shortness of breath or regular coughing. An asthmatic has less problems breathing in, but much more problems breathing out. In severe bronchial asthma, patients are given a so-called asthma inhaler. This is supposed to help them breathe out better.
If an asthmatic experiences problems, you can apply the following first aid measures:

• Calm the affected person and straighten the person’s upper body. Then try to breathe calmly with the person.
• If an asthma inhaler or similar preparation is available, help the person to take it and inhale it.
• If necessary, you should take the affected person to a doctor.
• If the situation does not improve, do not hesitate to call the emergency number.

Diabetes Mellitus

More and more people are developing diabetes mellitus. Diabetes is a sugar disease that mainly affects the pancreas. A distinction can be made between type I diabetes and type II diabetes (adult-onset diabetes). If you are affected by diabetes, you have problems with your sugar metabolism.
This metabolism can be regulated again by different methods, such as injecting insulin. When regulating the sugar metabolism, a distinction is made between hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia. There are small but decisive differences in the first aid of the two forms of sugar metabolism.
Hyperglycaemia:

• Occurs due to insufficient insulin production by the pancreas.
• Thus also occurs when insulin is forgotten or not injected by a syringe.
• You can help by giving more and sufficient insulin injections.
• If unconscious, place the person in the recovery position.
• In any case, dial the emergency number.

Hypoglycaemia:

• Occurs when there is a lack of food intake or also when an antidiabetic drug is overdosed.
• Can also be caused by other diseases or accidents.
• Too much exercise can also lead to hypoglycaemia.
• You can help with dextrose or sweet drinks.
• If unconscious, place the victim in the recovery position.
• In case of unconsciousness, dial the emergency number.

When can you still give first aid?

There are many other diseases that require first aid in certain emergency situations. But it is not only illnesses that require first aid measures. In the case of sunstroke or a tick bite, for example, one also speaks of first aid.
Other diseases and situations may include:

• Anaphylactic shock
• Shortness of breath
• Epileptic seizure
• Heart attack
• Fainting
• Stroke
• Burns
• and much more.

In many measures, first aid differs only slightly. Nevertheless, one must pay attention to different symptoms and treatments in different situations. In order to be best prepared for any emergency situation, we have compiled the most important general tips for first aid.

Tips for giving first aid

Should an emergency arise in which your first aid is needed, pay attention to the following points:

• Try to stay calm yourself and thus reassure the person yourself.
• Observe the progression of symptoms and make a note of them.
• Call for help as soon as possible. You can do this by dialling the emergency call or using our TarisApp. Our app automatically calls for further help in the area and dials the emergency call at the same time.
• If the person becomes unconscious, place the person in the recovery position.
• Remove any objects in the mouth and make sure you have a pulse and are breathing regularly.
• There is no pulse and no breathing? Then start resuscitation measures with the help of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

The most important tip in an emergency situation is always to stay calm yourself and try to help the affected persons as much as possible. Even if you do not feel safe yourself, you can make those affected feel safe. Because every bit of help counts towards survival.
Other articles:

• First Aid: What to do when my help is needed?
• Concussion: Symptoms and treatment!
• Electrical injury: How dangerous can an electrical accident be?

Sources and further links:

• https://www.drk.de/hilfe-in-deutschland/erste-hilfe/

Picture credits: ©Envatoelements

There are many everyday situations in which we can or even must provide first aid. From first aid for sunstroke to first aid for a tick bite, our help is needed. Nevertheless, there are also sudden situations, such as an accident, where victims need our help immediately. How does one behave? How can help be given? We answer these and other questions in this article.

In which situations can I give first aid?

First aid can be given in many situations. This also includes minor injuries or harmless illnesses. For example, you can also give first aid for a mild concussion. Therefore, first aid does not only have to be given for serious injuries. Nevertheless, in case of accidents or emergency situations, those affected are dependent on quick and professional help.
On average, emergency services need about 16 minutes to arrive at the scene of an accident. Every second counts for the survival of a person. With the help of our TarisApp, you can request professional medical help in an emergency situation. In addition, the emergency call is dialled automatically. You can find out more about our TarisApp right here.
The most common causes are as follows:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Epileptic seizure
• General accidents
• Bleeding
• Anaphylactic shock
• Electrocution
• Shortness of breath
• Burns on the body
• Fainting
• and much more.

One thing is certain: an incredible number of people are dependent on our help in emergency situations. Because every 3 seconds a person has a medical emergency.

How do I behave during first aid?

In order to be well prepared for an emergency situation, it is recommended to attend a first aid course. It is also compulsory to attend such a course when obtaining a driving licence. In addition, a first aid kit or first aid kit is obligatory in every car. This means that you are prepared for any medical emergency on the road. But you quickly forget what you have learned from the first aid course. Besides, people rarely attend a course voluntarily.
There is a traffic light scheme for emergencies, which should then help in certain situations:

1. Look
   – Overview of the emergency situation
   – What happened?
   – Who is involved? 
   – Who is affected?
2. Think
   – Exclude danger for responders
   – Exclude danger for other persons
   – Exclude danger for affected persons
3. Act
   – Protect yourself
   – Secure and mark the accident site
   – Switch off the machines
   – Give first aid

What is the procedure for resuscitation?

If you have to resuscitate a person in an emergency situation, you must perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Two points are important for this:
1. Cardiac massage

• Kneel next to the affected person at about chest level
• Place the heel of one hand approximately in the middle of the chest.
• Then place the heel of the second hand on the first hand.
• Then, by shifting your own weight in the upper body and with your arms outstretched, you need to press vertically into the chest about 6 cm 30 times.
• During the whole process, the frequency should remain constant and be around 100 to 120 beats per minute.

2. Breath supply

• Lean the head back and point the chin upwards to clear the airways.
• Then take the index finger and thumb of the hand closer to the forehead to close the nose.
• Then open your mouth as long as you point your chin upwards.
• Breathe in normally and place your lips completely around the affected person’s mouth.
• Blow the inhaled air into the mouth for about one second until the victim’s chest rises.
• Then turn your head to the side and take another deep breath, making sure that the chest lowers again. Then repeat the previous step again.

Important:

• The cardiac massage and the ventilation take place alternately. First press 30 times and then give 2 breaths.
• If the person is then able to breathe on their own again, place the person in the recovery position.
• If there is still no breathing, repeat chest compressions and breathing until the emergency doctor arrives.

Providing first aid: tips

We have collected the most important tips for you that are very important in general first aid.
If you find yourself in a medical emergency, you should follow these tips:

• Stay calm and try to reassure the person concerned.
• Look out for possible symptoms and try to remember them.
• Dial the emergency number as soon as possible and describe the situation. If necessary, you must also report any symptoms that occur.
• Try to attract the attention of other people to ask for further help. You can also do this, for example, with our TarisApp via your mobile phone.
• If the person becomes unconscious, place the person in the recovery position.
• In case of unconsciousness, you should also remove possible objects in the mouth. This may expose the person’s airways.
• Feel the pulse and breathing of the affected person.
• If there is no breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

The first aid measures always depend on the situation and the medical emergency. For example, you have to proceed differently in the case of a heart attack than in the case of anaphylactic shock. Even initially harmless emergencies such as sunstroke or concussion require additional measures. Nevertheless, even in initially harmless emergencies, further inconspicuous injuries can lead to serious consequences.
Other articles:

• Burns on the body: what can be done?
• Fainting: Losing consciousness!
• Dyspnoea: What to do when you suddenly run out of air?

Sources and further links:

• https://www.drk.de/hilfe-in-deutschland/erste-hilfe/herz-lungen-wiederbelebung/
• https://www.samariter.ch/de/dokument/ampelschema

Picture credits: ©Envatoelements

When our body is not well, it tries to activate its immune system. One of the most common reactions is a fever. If you have a high temperature, your body is trying to signal that something is wrong. But how does a fever develop and when can it become dangerous? Let’s get to the bottom of these questions.

What causes fever?

As a rule, we humans have a normal body temperature of around 36 °C – 38 °C. The normal body temperature is regulated by our brain. The hypothalamus is responsible for this. This area of the brain makes sure that the body temperature is not too high or too low.
If fever then occurs, it may come from the hypothalamus. The messenger substances that occur during infections or other illnesses can reach the brain and cause the body temperature to rise. The body is confused and has the feeling that 37 °C is too cold and lets the temperature rise. The body does this, for example, with the help of shivering. Because chills are one of the most common symptoms that can occur.
Through the resulting fever, certain processes of our immune system should be activated more quickly and work more quickly. This should then eventually lower the temperature again and fight the infection. This usually takes a few days until you recover from the fever. Here, of course, it depends on how strong and dangerous the infection is.

What temperature defines fever?

In principle, one can assume that one has fever when the temperature is above 38 °C. This is not wrong in principle, but even at 38.1 °C on should not be alarmed immediately. Here we are talking about a slightly raised temperature, which is not further dangerous. Here it is only important to continue to observe the symptoms that develop and the body temperature. With a body temperature of 38.5 °C, a slight fever is assumed. From a body temperature of 39 °C onwards, more symptoms occur, such as chills.

Can a fever be dangerous?

A rise in temperature is not an illness, but also counts as a symptom of other diseases. In principle, fever appears with infections and can then be fought independently. However, it can also become dangerous. At a certain point, even the body’s own immune system can no longer help and needs external support. In addition, from a certain body temperature, fever can lead to the body overheating. This in turn can cause further damage to the body.

When does a fever become dangerous?

From a body temperature of around 40 °C it can become dangerous. The body no longer has control over the infection and the regulation of body temperature. Tissues or organs in the body may be damaged, which can mean long-term consequences. Circulation may also collapse. From a body temperature of around 42 °C, it can also become life-threatening.

Causes

Many people probably wonder how fever occurs. There can be many different causes. As a rule, however, an infection in the body is responsible. From otitis media to influenza, a rise in body temperature can occur with various infections
The most common causes of fever include:

• Bronchitis
• Otitis media
• Influenza
• Gastroenteritis
• Pneumonia
• Appendicitis

In order for the doctor to make the correct diagnosis and find the origin of the infection, the other symptoms are also very important.

Symptoms

With inflammation or infection in the body, other symptoms occur in addition to fever. Here, the symptoms can be completely different. In the case of an infection in the throat area, you have a sore throat or difficulty swallowing. If you suffer from appendicitis, you have pain in your lower abdomen.

When do you need to consult a doctor?

A doctor should be consulted as soon as the body temperature reaches around 40 °C. Before this, you can reduce the fever with any medication from the pharmacy or home remedies. Then, as a rule, the temperature should drop after a few days. But not only the fever is decisive for a visit to the doctor. Observation of other symptoms is also important. If the temperature increase does not disappear after several days, a visit to the doctor is recommended. In this case, you should not have a fever for more than 3 days.

How to measure temperature?

There are several ways of measuring fever. As a rule, body temperature can be determined with a clinical thermometer or fever meter. There are several ways to do this.

• Underarm
• To the ear
• In the mouth

All measuring methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Some are more accurate, others more comfortable. Find the measurement method you like and try them all.

Children’s fever or baby fever

Fever in children or infants must be treated a little differently than in adults. This is because fever develops much more often in children than in adults. This has to do with the fact that the child is still developing.  In addition, the threshold of body temperature inhibition is somewhat lower in children. In newborns, therefore, we talk of a high fever as early as 39 °C. If the child has a temperature of 40 °C or more, it is much more dangerous than for an adult.
However, you can try to help your child with, for example, compresses on the calves or a damp cloth on the forehead. In this way, the temperature can usually be brought down again after a short time and the child can recover. However, always consult a paediatrician if in doubt.
Other articles:

• Sunstroke: what helps and how can it be prevented?
• Fainting: Losing consciousness!
• Healthy heart: What is healthy for the heart?

Sources and further links:

• https://www.tk.de/techniker/gesundheit-und-medizin/kinder-und-jugendliche/fieber-bei-kindern-2013166
• https://www.dgkj.de/eltern/dgkj-elterninformationen/elterninfo-fieber

In our everyday lives, we are almost constantly surrounded by electricity. Whether in the office or at home in our own four walls, electricity flows. But the danger of cables or sockets is often underestimated. When does an electric shock occur and what are the consequences for people? We clarify the most important questions.

How does electric injury occur?

First of all, you have to understand the human body a little before you know how an electric shock actually occurs. Lots of electrical impulses flow through the human body. These electrical impulses are needed for the nervous system. For example, the nervous system can transmit different commands from our brain to the muscles. The heart also beats only through electrical impulses.
The difference to electricity is that in the body ions are used for the flow of current. In electrical devices, on the other hand, it is by means of electrons. But if an external current source reaches the body, it can become dangerous. It can then affect the muscles and cause cramps.
If, for example, you accidentally touch a socket or come into contact with an open power cable, it can be unpleasant. There is a lot of electricity flowing in these places. In the household, 230 V is common, as you can often read on power outlets. That is about 16 amperes. About 0.05 amps is enough to trigger a life-threatening heart fibrillation. That is the equivalent of about 50 milliamperes.

Is electric injury dangerous?

Electric injury can definitely be life-threatening. It always depends on the power source and how much current is flowing through it. Our body charges itself throughout the day. If you then reach out to a place that is also charged, you can also get a mild electric shock. We get a short shock and flinch briefly. Such an electric shock is not dangerous.
Whether an electric shock is really dangerous depends on several different factors:

• Contact surface
• Voltage
• Current
• Exposure time
• Path through the body

It is also decisive whether the current is alternating or direct. In principle, alternating current is more likely to cause damage to health than direct current. With alternating current, the direction of flow changes constantly. With direct current, there is only one direction of flow. This does not mean, however, that direct current is harmless.

When is electric injury dangerous?

Here, too, it depends first of all on the current strength and the exposure time. If you are only exposed to a strong current for a short time, it is similarly dangerous as a light current for a longer time. It usually becomes dangerous at a current strength of about 50 milliamperes. If the current reaches the chest, it becomes really dangerous. This can lead to problems with the heart.
We have to be especially careful with power sources when one could come into contact with water or moisture. Then it is better to keep your hands off electrical appliances. In the bathroom, too, one should generally refrain from using radios or similar devices.

What to do in case of electric shock?

If an electric shock occurs in the household, you can help by disconnecting the power source. For example, by carefully pulling out the plug or by turning off the main switch. In the event of an accident with a high-voltage line, it is better to stay away from the accident site and dial the emergency number immediately. In that case, fast first aid for the person affected is very important.
With our Tarisapp, you can, for example, ask for help from medically trained personnel in the immediate vicinity. After all, several minutes can pass before the emergency services arrive at the scene of the accident. And every second counts in the event of an electrical accident.

First aid

If an electric shock occurs, first aid is essential for survival. Electrocution victims are dependent on all further help.
In the event of an accident involving electric shock, adhere to the following instructions:

• Stay calm and dial the emergency number immediately.
• Pay attention to your own safety. Look for the circuit and break it carefully without endangering yourself. You can do this, for example, with a blanket or a piece of wood, these are not conductive.
• Talk to the person concerned and try to reassure them.
• If there are burns, you can cover them with germ-free cloths.
• The affected person is no longer conscious and is still breathing? Then place the person in the recovery position. Continue to monitor breathing and consciousness.
• If there is no longer any breathing, carry out resuscitation measures immediately by means of cardiopulmonary massage.
• In case of high-voltage accidents, first aid should only be administered by qualified medical personnel.

What are the possible consequences of electric injury?

A strong electric shock can eventually lead to death. If you are still a little lucky, you can survive. But then usually with serious consequences.
Consequences can be:

• Severe burns
• Seizures
• Memory gaps
• Impairment of body functions
• Cardiac arrhythmia

When should you see a doctor?

If at least one of the consequences occurs, do not hesitate to go to the doctor. Even mild electric shocks can cause a general feeling of indisposition. The consequences of an electric shock should not be underestimated. The doctor will then order various examinations. The whole body is examined for possible damage.
Skin burns are treated with the help of ointments and bandages. If the pain is more severe, painkillers are used to relieve the pain. As a rule, people affected by electrocution stay in hospital for one or two days for observation. This is the only way to rule out further damage to the body.
Other articles:

• Heart Anatomy: How does our heart actually work?
• Fainting: Losing consciousness!
• Shock: What exactly happens in a state of shock?

Sources and further links:

• https://www.drk.de/hilfe-in-deutschland/erste-hilfe/stromschlag/
• https://www.quarks.de/gesundheit/was-bei-einem-stromschlag-in-deinem-koerperpassiert30

Picture credits: ©Envatoelements

Have you hit your head or hit you by a ball to the head while training? Then you may experience severe headaches. A severe headache can also be a sign of a concussion of the brain. But how do you deal with a concussion and what exactly does it mean? Let’s clarify the most important questions.

How does a concussion occur?

A concussion usually occurs with more severe head injuries. A concussion is referred to as a brain injury because the brain is pushed against the wall of the skull on the inside. It is also often referred to as a minor traumatic brain injury. The causes can be different.
Normally, an impact or external force against the head causes concussion of the brain.  A distinction can be made between mild and severe concussion of the brain. With mild concussion of the brain, you have more severe headaches in the back of your head and complain of mild nausea. If you have severe concussion of the brain, you complain of many more symptoms. A typical sign is vomiting.
There are ways to avoid concussion. For example, you can wear a helmet while cycling. With children it is necessary to pay attention to the correct seat in the car. A poor-quality car seat can cause serious head injuries. In the case of small children, take special care not to give them any opportunity to climb. Because especially at a young age you are exposed to concussion of the brain.

Causes

There are many ways to get a concussion of the brain. Even small bumps to the head can mean a slight shock. Basically, a concussion of the brain affects the head. A head injury gives the brain a good jolt. That is why sports injuries are one of the most common causes.
You hit your head, the ball hits you very hard on your head or your head hits the ground. These are very familiar situations in sport. This is why the discussion about the introduction of compulsory helmets or head protectors has started in football. The reason for this is that more and more footballers are suffering serious head injuries with serious consequences.
The debate also started in youth football to ban headers up to a certain age. The reason for this was the as yet incomplete development of children, who are therefore significantly more susceptible to serious consequential damage. But it is not only sporting activities that can cause brain concussion. Accidents with a motorbike, bicycle or car can also cause serious head injuries.

Symptoms

Now the question arises: how to recognise a concussion? The good news is that concussion is very easy to diagnose. The symptoms are very clear. In the event of symptoms, however, it is important to consult a doctor. Because a concussion cannot rule out further brain damage. A concussion can cause bleeding in the brain and this can be life-threatening.
The most common symptoms of a concussion include:

• Severe headache
• Visual impairment
• nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• unconsciousness
• Neck pain
• Difficulty sleeping
• Photosensitivity

These symptoms do not necessarily have to appear immediately after the accident. It can take up to several hours for the first signs to become apparent. In addition, some symptoms may extend over a longer period of time, such as neck pain.
If these symptoms occur after a head injury, consult a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will then determine the severity of the concussion and provide the necessary treatment.

What to do in case of brain concussion?

If someone in the immediate vicinity hits their head, you can also quickly check the severity of the victim’s concussion. Ask the person for their name and current date. You can also check the victim’s mobility. If you notice clear problems here, you can assume severe concussion of the brain.
If there are no or only a few problems, mild shock can be assumed. Then take the person to the doctor or call an ambulance. If, for example, the skull is cracked or the person is unconscious, you should provide first aid immediately and dial the emergency number. With our Taris app, you can also call a professional doctor nearby.

How long do you need to rest in bed if you have a concussion?

Once you have been diagnosed with cerebral concussion, you first need plenty of rest. Normally, the attending physician orders bed rest for several days. A lot of rest and sleep is needed to recover from a concussion. The brain must first recover from the shock. Sporting activity must also be avoided for a long time.
Sport can be banned for a period of between 2 and 4 weeks. After a concussion, the brain is still very vulnerable to further injury. This is why it is particularly important to give the brain time to recover.

When is concussion dangerous?

It depends on the severity of the concussion. Basically, you make a full recovery with a mild and severe concussion. However, further head injuries cannot be excluded. If you do not seek medical attention for a concussion, undetected head injuries can be very dangerous.

What are the possible consequences of brain concussion?

In many cases, additional injuries occur that may not be visible from the outside. For example, brain hemorrhages can also occur, which are very dangerous. But long-term effects such as insomnia and poor concentration can still occur long after a brain concussion.
Other articles:

• Fainting: Losing consciousness!
• Stroke: This is what happens in your body!

Sources and further links:

• https://www.tk.de/techniker/gesundheit-und-medizin/behandlungen-undmedizin/neurologische-einschraenkungen/was-ist-einegehirnerschuetterung-2016374
• https://aok-bv.de/presse/medienservice/ratgeber/index_23534.html

 Photo credits: ©Envatoelements

Do you occasionally complain of circulatory problems or weakness? You are certainly not alone. Many people suffer from dizziness. Attacks like these should not be taken lightly. You can faint quickly. There may also be other reasons for sudden, life-threatening fainting. We explain the most important ones.

How does fainting happen?

Very common fainting happens when blood pressure or pulse drops slowly. This is why people with low blood pressure are particularly likely to lose consciousness. When circulatory fainting occurs, the nervous system has trouble working. The blood vessels widen and the heart rate increases. Subsequently, the brain is no longer adequately supplied with oxygen and unconsciousness occurs.
A circulatory collapse can also be a sign of a previously unknown disease. Above all, a sudden unconscious fainting spell is very typical. This may indicate a heart disease or diabetes, for example. Not excluding other probable diseases.
Therefore, if you suffer from frequent attacks of dizziness or general circulatory problems, you should definitely consult a doctor. If you continue to faint, you may have a very rare disease. Sick people faint several times a day. In this case, you should consult a specialist.

Causes

In medicine, syncope is referred to as fainting. It is difficult to define why you eventually faint, because the causes are mostly individual. One of the most common causes of fainting is stress. Fainting due to stress is nothing unusual and a well-known problem. Stress often leads to a so-called circulatory collapse or nervous breakdown.
This can also be called burnout. The victim is exposed to enormous stresses and pressures that the body can no longer withstand. But there can also be other causes of fainting.
The most common causes include:

• fatigue
• Low blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Hypoglycaemia
• epilepsy
• Unknown diseases

It is very important to be tested for circulatory problems. In this way it is possible to anticipate or even exclude further diseases. In many cases, preventive medical checks can save lives.

Symptoms

The symptoms of fainting are usually very clear. But before a person faints, there are other signs.
The most common symptoms of cardiovascular fainting are:

• dizziness
• Black in front of the eyes
• Vision problems
• Tingling sensation over the whole body
• nausea
• Slight contractions

If it is a fainting spell, you may also suffer from sudden cardiac arrest. This is a life-threatening fainting spell. The blood pressure drops rapidly and the heart stops. In the case of circulatory fainting, however, those affected wake up relatively quickly.

When is it dangerous to faint?

Fainting is particularly dangerous if the victim has no pulse or stops breathing. Then the person is in grave danger of death and must be treated immediately. It is important to provide first aid and dial the emergency number. In addition, resuscitation measures should be initiated.
But even unconsciousness with breathing and beating can quickly become dangerous. Protective reflexes such as coughing or swallowing are suspended. Liquids from vomit or blood can enter the windpipe, for example. There is also a danger of swallowing one’s own tongue. Therefore, it is extremely important to react quickly and provide immediate first aid.
Fainting or unconsciousness can occur at any time. In sport we also see cases of unconsciousness due to a collision. But circulatory weakness due to over-exertion can also lead to this. Such situations can also arise quickly in recreational sports. Here, too, it is important to help quickly and protect oneself from further danger.

What to do if someone faints?

If a person in your immediate vicinity faints, it is important that you remain calm and help. First of all, you must give first aid and call for help. You can do this, for example, with our Taris app.
This involves calling nearby medical personnel for help until the ambulance or emergency doctor arrives. It is usually a long time before the help you need arrives, and this is where professional assistance can be very helpful. However, we have compiled the most important tips in case of fainting
First aid for fainting:

• Remain calm, grasp and talk to the person to control consciousness.
• Dial the helpline number and get additional quick help through the Taris App.
• Then, take the person’s pulse and check their breathing.
• Then expose the airways and above all loosen tight clothing, such as ties.
• If the person is still breathing, place them in the recovery position and continue to monitor their breathing.
• If there is no breathing and no pulse, resuscitation measures must be started immediately. For example, with cardiac massage.

Note: These first aid measures are only a rough guide in case of fainting. If necessary, you will receive further instructions on the phone when you dial the emergency number. Therefore, listen carefully.
Other articles:

• Shock: What exactly happens in a state of shock?
• Anatomy of the heart: how does our heart really work?
• Healthy heart: What is healthy for the heart?

Sources and further links:

• https://www.tk.de/techniker/gesundheit-und-medizin/behandlungen-undmedizin/neurologische-einschraenkungen/was-ist-eine-gehirnerschuetterung2016374
• https://aok-bv.de/presse/medienservice/ratgeber/index_23534.html

Photo credits: ©Envatoelements

Temperatures rise in summer. It gets hotter every year because of global warming. So it is easy to underestimate the sun and the heat in the summer. Suddenly you have sunstroke and you don’t know what to do next. We will show you what you can do about it and how to prevent sunstroke.

What exactly happens with sunstroke?

With sunstroke, the body is exposed to the sun for a long time. The strong and permanent effect of the sun’s rays on the head can have a negative effect on the body. The person complains of various symptoms and has a general feeling of sickness.
The head and neck play the most important role here. Usually you only suffer from sunstroke if you do not protect yourself adequately from the intense heat. That’s why it’s important to wear a hat even in summer. Especially when you have little or no hair on your head. It is therefore essential to prevent sunstroke even for babies and children by putting on a hat.
When it must be considered, hair density is also important. If, for example, your scalp is still clearly visible, your hair can offer no protection against sunburn either. However, you should not only trust your hair when it is very hot. It is important to protect your head and neck from the sun’s rays.

How does sunstroke happen?

 The causes of sunstroke do not necessarily include UV rays, but rather the intense heat to which one is exposed. The sun’s rays penetrate the scalp and thus irritate the meninges. Blood vessels in different areas expand and can even cause swelling of the brain. As a result, the person no longer feels well and complains of the first signs of sunstroke.
Sunstroke is often confused with heat stroke. You might think that these are the same, but there are clear differences. With heat stroke, the symptoms are much more severe and the health risk is much higher. In the case of sunstroke, you should stay out of the sun as quickly as possible and regenerate again. In case of heat stroke, on the other hand, you should immediately call an emergency doctor and provide first aid.

Symptoms

 If you end up with sunstroke, then you don’t feel well in the first place. You complain of headaches and a feeling of dizziness. If this is the case, you should quickly move away from the sun and look for a shady place. But there are also other signs for sunstroke.
The most common symptoms include:

• Head turns
• Headaches
• Neck pain
• Hot and red body
• Cold head
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Note: In the worst case, even a strong sunstroke will cause you to lose consciousness. Therefore it is important to remain calm and keep the affected person conscious. In case of emergency, do not hesitate and call the emergency services.

What to do in case of sunstroke?

 Treatment is particularly important in cases of sunstroke. When the first signs become evident, sunstroke must be treated immediately. The sooner the sunstroke is neutralised, the shorter the duration of a sunstroke. And so the symptoms and consequences are much more harmless.
Please note the following:

• Move the affected person away from the sun and into a shady and cool place.
• Then place the upper part of the affected person’s body slightly higher up.
• Try to cool the head and neck, for example with a damp cloth.
• It is important to drink plenty of water.
• Do not take a cold shower or bath. This will only upset the cycle.
• Finally, you should continue to control your breathing and your consciousness. If the situation worsens, do not hesitate to call the emergency services.

Sunstroke during pregnancy is also not uncommon. However, to get through pregnancy well, pregnant women should pay special attention to heat and sun. During pregnancy, hormones make you much more susceptible. It is therefore best to follow our advice on prevention.

Preventing sunburn: tips

 To avoid suffering from sunstroke, it should be carefully prevented. You can prepare very well in advance, especially if the days are announced. We have collected the most important tips for prevention.

• Make sure you do not stay in the sun. From time to time you should go to a cool, shady place.
• In extreme heat you sweat a lot and lose a lot of body fluid. That is why it is especially important to drink a lot. Avoid alcohol if possible.
• Wear loose, airy clothes to keep cool.
• Think about headgear, such as a cap or hat.
• If possible, avoid the intense heat at midday and switch to other times instead.
• Avoid a heavy meal, otherwise heavy digestion can trigger additional body heat.

You should definitely not underestimate a sunstroke and watch the weather report. This allows you to be sufficiently prepared when the heat is announced.
If heat is taken lightly, it can do much more than just sunstroke. Heat stroke is far worse and can be very dangerous. But so that it doesn’t come to that, you can prevent sunstroke by a few means and enjoy the summer.
Other articles:

• Dyspnoea: what to do when you suddenly run out of air?
• Body burns: what can be done?
• Shock: what exactly happens in a state of shock?

Sources and further links:

• https://www.tk.de/techniker/gesundheit-und-medizin/behandlungen-undmedizin/neurologische-einschraenkungen/was-ist-einegehirnerschuetterung-2016374
• https://aok-bv.de/presse/medienservice/ratgeber/index_23534.html

 Photo credits: ©Envatoelements

Have you ever experienced wheezing, shortness of breath or simply difficulty breathing? Then you have probably also wondered where these breathing problems come from and how to be better prepared for them next time. In this article we will explain the most important things about shortness of breath.

What exactly happens when you suffer from breathlessness?

In the case of shortness of breath, the affected person has great difficulty breathing. This often manifests itself as shortness of breath or wheezing for breath. In medicine, shortness of breath is called dyspnoea. If the breathing difficulties are even worse, it is also called orthopnoea.
Dyspnoea occurs when you can suddenly barely breathe in calm situations. So it does not necessarily have to lead to excessive stress on the body and shortness of breath. It is often much more difficult to breathe after excessive exertion in sport. But this is not necessarily dyspnoea.
It is clear that dyspnoea is a serious matter. For example, if you experience shortness of breath at night or shortness of breath at low power, you should see a doctor. Ignoring breathing problems and waiting for them to pass can be very dangerous.

How does shortness of breath happen?

For example, dyspnoea often occurs in conjunction with heart failure or a heart attack. Dyspnoea is one of the most common symptoms of these heart problems. This is because a heart attack, for example, means that the oxygen supply through the blood is not optimal.
Nevertheless, dyspnoea does not necessarily only appear in the case of physical problems. Breathing problems can also occur for psychological reasons. If you are exposed to a lot of stress or suffer from mental illnesses in general, dyspnoea cannot necessarily be ruled out.
Dyspnoea becomes noticeable at the latest when everything becomes too much for you or when you are exposed to enormous pressure. Burnout is typical of this. With burnout, you experience many different symptoms. The most common are pain in the limbs, lack of strength and respiratory distress.

Causes

The most common causes of breathlessness are certain diseases that cause breathing problems. These include, for example, asthma or COPD. COPD is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This means that the airways become increasingly narrow. This makes it much harder to breathe.
Asthma is a disease that is not necessarily rare. More and more people suffer from asthma. Here it is important to talk it out with your treating doctor.
Other causes can be:

• Psychological problems or stress
• Continuous stress
• Traumatic experiences
• Anxiety or anxiety disorders
• Heart disease

Traumatic experiences are often repressed by the affected persons. However, this can lead to long-term consequential damage. Traumatic experiences can also cause flashbacks, for example. In this case, one is virtually transported back to the traumatic experience and relives the event. This can also lead to breathing problems.
In the case of anxiety, affected persons usually also experience breathing difficulties. In the case of a heart attack, this is quite typical. The victim mainly shows chest discomfort and is thus afraid of death. This fear of death can also cause shortness of breath.

Symptoms

Now the question is how to recognise respiratory distress. The corresponding symptoms are very important for this. Basically, with dyspnoea you can assume that the person affected has difficulty breathing. There are different symptoms.
The most common symptoms of respiratory problems include:

• Gasping
• Shortness of breath
• Burning in the chest
• Shortness of breath when lying down or at night
• Breathlessness during low output or also during pregnancy

It is not unusual for shortness of breath to occur during pregnancy. The psychological stress during pregnancy can also be the cause. Nevertheless, you should discuss the symptoms of dyspnoea with your gynaecologist or your attending doctor.

What to do in case of shortness of breath? 

If you suffer from sudden shortness of breath or wish to help an affected person, there are a few things to consider. We have collected the most important tips for dyspnea.

• If shortness of breath occurs suddenly, the affected person quickly panics. Here it is important to calm yourself or the person down. Because any panic is encouraged by even more fear.
• You should try to breathe calmly and carefully. In this way, one tries carefully and slowly to regain regular breathing.
• It is extremely important to call for first aid and to dial the emergency number. It depends on how severe the shortness of breath is. This is because shortness of breath can very often be related to a life-threatening situation, such as a pulmonary embolism.
• The affected person must be placed in a supportive sitting position. The person should be sat up carefully and slowly. Any jerky movement can make breathing more difficult. It is best to support the person against a wall.
• Tight clothing must be loosened to expose the airways.
• If unconsciousness occurs, breathing must be controlled. If breathing is regular, place the person in the recovery position.
• If the person stops breathing or suffers a cardiac arrest, resuscitation measures must be taken immediately.

Note: If you have breathing problems, one of the things you can do is train the auxiliary breathing muscles. Specific breathing training can strengthen the respiratory support muscles and alleviate breathing problems. There are different programmes or courses for this.
More articles:

• Shock: What exactly happens during a state of shock?
• Heart Anatomy: How does our heart actually work?
• Anaphylactic shock: What you need to know!

Sources and other links:

• https://www.thieme.de/viamedici/klinik-faecher-innere-1535/a/leitsymptom-atemnot-26865.htm
• https://www.oberbergkliniken.de/symptome/atemnot

Photo credits: ©Envatoelements