We all know camping is always fun but sure with some risks out there. Accidents happen often while in the woods or mountains. There might be a few times when you need to treat injuries during camping with some med kits that you carry.
While outdoor activities can be dangerous, you can easily treat common outdoor injuries yourself. You can use a saline solution and medical disinfectant to clean and disinfect a wound.
You can also use an antiseptic ointment to help the wound heal. Bandage the wound with a fresh gauze or bandage. Depending on the wound type, you may need medical attention.
Otherwise, the wound will usually heal by itself, but you should clean and cover it with a fresh bandage at regular intervals.
What Are the Injuries in Camping?
Among the common injuries that people suffer while camping, cuts and dehydration come at the top. These injuries can easily be prevented by applying sunscreen or eating plenty of fruit before leaving.
It is also important to carry a first-aid kit that includes bandages and basic supplies. It is important to protect your skin from the sun because exposure to the sun can cause a variety of diseases. For prevention of such injuries, you can start hydrating a few days before you leave for camping.
A sprained ankle can also occur during camping. Immediately seek medical attention if you hear your ankle pop. You should also apply compression to the injured area and then set up camp.
Fatigue is another common injury during camping. Not getting enough rest, walking in the heat for long periods of time, and not drinking enough water can lead to fatigue. If you suffer from fatigue, you should stop the camping trip and visit the nearest clinic.
How Are Outdoor Injuries Treated?
One of the most common injuries that occur while hiking is sprained ankles. Approximately 70% of all non-fatal wilderness injuries are related to sprains.
If you are experiencing ankle pain, elevate the affected area off the heart. You can also use ice to help reduce swelling and use a compression bandage to improve circulation. Immediately seek medical attention for an ankle sprain.
Other injuries that can occur during an outdoor adventure include cuts, scrapes, and burns. Treating these injuries is the same as for the ones that occur back home.
Apply the sterile solution to stop the bleeding, apply antibacterial cream, and cover the wound with a bandage. Having first aid supplies with you will make it easier to treat any injuries that occur. You should also bring along your camping first aid kit.
How Do You Treat a Sprain in the Wilderness?
If you’re heading out for an extended backpacking trip or hiking excursion, knowing how to treat an ankle sprain while in the wilderness is essential to your safety.
Ankle sprains are very common, even in the most physically fit individuals, and can occur for a variety of reasons. You might be carrying a heavy backpack, suddenly tripping, or shoveling snow when you twist your ankle. In any case, you must know how to treat an ankle sprain.
The most common injuries in wilderness activities are musculoskeletal system (MSS) injuries. These include bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.
Sprains result from overstretching the muscles and can range from a minor annoyance to a major debilitating injury. While RICE is helpful for treating musculoskeletal injuries, it may not be enough to treat an injury that is severe. In case you have a sprain, it’s best to limit movement and ice.
Treat Injuries During Camping
Campsites present many opportunities to sustain a variety of injuries. Common outdoor activities may result in open wounds due to falling, sharp rocks, or even cutting wood.
Burns are another common occurrence, and a good first aid kit should have a variety of burn dressings and bandages.
Bandages
First aid kits for camping should contain bandages and medical tape to help you handle minor injuries.
Other items to have on hand are hydrogen peroxide, bacitracin, cotton swabs, and antibiotic ointment. Bandages help secure wounds, and medical tape and swabs can sterilise and disinfect open wounds.
The kit should also include supplies for preventing infection and ensuring a quick recovery.
In addition to bandages, you should pack a first aid kit containing antibiotic ointment, painkillers, and other items that can help prevent further injuries.
Burns are another common injury that can occur during camping. You should apply cool water and antibiotic ointment to the burned area, and then wrap it with gauze or a clean piece of clothing. In order to minimize swelling, elevate the injured area.
NSAIDs
A study found that 62% of senior campers and 46% of junior campers took over-the-counter analgesics for injuries during camping. Moreover, almost half (45%) of staff also took over-the-counter analgesics for injuries. But what about the use of OTC analgesics in camping? Is it better to take ibuprofen or acetaminophen?
NSAIDs are widely used to ease pain. They are used for various injuries, including headaches, toothache, earache, joint and muscle pain, and menstrual cramps.
These medications also battle inflammation, whether from an injury or arthritis. And their effects are lasting for two weeks. This is good news for campers who are prone to getting injured while camping. But be sure to consult a physician before taking any type of medication.
Moleskin
When hiking or camping, it is important to bring along moleskin for treatment of cuts, sprains, and blisters. It is especially important for backpacking, where the change in weight can lead to foot irritation.
Another important camping first aid item is burn cream. Blisters often form on the skin and can be extremely painful. Moleskin works by sticking to skin without adhering to it, so it will shed friction and protect the skin from infection.
Blisters should be treated immediately by applying an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment. Next, the area should be covered with a layer of moleskin with no holes. This will protect the area from rubbing and keep the area clean.
It is essential to keep the blister clean and dry to prevent infection. A bandage can also help prevent the blister from getting infected. If you can’t find any antiseptic or antibiotic ointment or a bandage, you can buy a moleskin for blister treatment.
Closed-Toed Shoes
Closing your toes during hiking can help prevent foot injuries during camping. Also, closed-toed shoes can prevent injuries caused by slippery, uneven or steep terrain. For more tips, see Resources for Healthier Camps.
For example, consider using closed-toed shoes for hiking in the mountains. Closed-toe shoes are especially beneficial when you’re hiking on rocky terrain.
While camping outdoors, you must wear closed-toed shoes. These are important for exploring the badlands and avoiding insect bites. Moreover, your kids’ feet will be protected from the sharp spikes of prairie rattlesnakes and cactus spines.
Insect bites are another common cause of outdoor injuries. Bug bites can range from itchy irritation to serious viral infections. Use insect repellent and cover your skin to avoid bug bites.
Regardless of the season, make sure to wear closed-toed shoes and wear a pair of long-sleeved clothing. Also, remember to keep hydrated by bringing reusable water bottler.
Protective Equipment
During a camp, many activities require the use of protective equipment. The ACA has developed standards for the appropriate use of such gear. These standards emphasize that these equipments should be worn when necessary, and during active programs.
The following article outlines a few tips to ensure that all campers are protected. The first step in preventing injuries is to understand the importance of using the proper equipment. Make sure to read the full descriptions of each piece of equipment.
Even minor cuts and scrapes should be treated promptly. Because the risk of infection increases in the bush and water, it is important to make sure that minor injuries are treated quickly and effectively.
Antibacterial ointment and medical disinfectants can help clean up wounds and kill bacteria. Alcohol-free wipes are also essential. During a camping trip, it is also wise to carry spare clean water for washing and hydrating a patient. A saline solution can be prepared by mixing salt and hot water.
Hiking Injuries – Common Hiking Injuries
While hiking, you may be at risk of sustaining some of the most common hiking injuries. These injuries include: Twisted Ankle, Strains & Sprains, Temperature Fluctuations, and Blisters.
Listed below are some tips to help prevent these injuries. Whether hiking in the woods or on a beach, it is best to be prepared and follow proper safety precautions. While most injuries can be avoided, it is important to get medical help immediately if you experience a hiking injury.
Twisted Ankle
A twisted ankle is one of the most common injuries that hikers can suffer while out on the trail. During a hike, you should be sure to wear the appropriate footwear.
You should also carry hiking sticks or stabilizers to help balance your steps. If you do sustain a twisted ankle during your hike, don’t walk it off and seek medical attention immediately. A hiking buddy will be able to help you walk home, and if possible, he or she will have a partner to assist you.
Despite the obvious danger of a twisted ankle, it is possible to prevent it from worsening. You should warm up your ankle prior to hiking. Try doing dynamic exercises to stretch and warm it up.
Always be aware of the terrain and wear appropriate hiking gear to prevent injury. If you are unsure of what to wear, make sure to check your footwear and use hiking tape to prevent further injury. In addition to this, you should also wear protective gear, such as ankle braces.
Blisters
Blisters are a common outdoor injury. If you have a pair of hiking boots, make sure they are waterproof. A blister can put your hiking trip on hold fast.
Treating blisters at the earliest sign will minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of developing a hot spot. Symptoms of blisters include redness, swelling, pain, and itching.
The treatment for a blister is the same as for a hot spot: use a sterile needle to puncture the blister and apply a disinfectant.
Then, wrap the open wound with a bandage. Afterward, check the blister for redness and swelling, and take antibiotics if necessary. However, a sterile needle is unlikely to be available while hiking, so use a bandage to prevent further irritation.
Strains & Sprains
One of the most common hiking injuries is a sprained ankle, which can result from walking on slippery surfaces or rocks. While most sprains can be resolved by walking off and resting, others require medical attention.
If you do sustain a sprained ankle while hiking, stop immediately and seek medical attention. The best treatment is to apply compression to the ankle. Set up camp immediately if you suspect you’ve suffered a sprain.
A sprained ankle or knee may occur from tripping on uneven terrain. To prevent these injuries, be sure to note the terrain and step carefully. A limp back will be annoying for everyone.
When treating a sprained ankle or knee, make sure to elevate it and rest it. Likewise, you should take a day off from hiking if the injury is serious.
Temperature Fluctuations
One of the most common hiking injuries is heat-related illness. Although rare, heat-related illnesses are often a result of prolonged exposure to hot weather and excessive exertion.
The skin cannot release heat in these conditions, and high humidity increases the heat transfer to the body. Heat-related illnesses range in severity from mild cases of heat exhaustion to life-threatening conditions, such as heat stroke.
Hiker’s Rash
While there are numerous ways to prevent a hiker’s rash, one of the most common is to not get it in the first place. In some cases, the rash can be severe and require medical attention. If you have experienced a hiker’s rash in the past, you are at risk of a repeat episode. To avoid a repeat episode, consider wearing compression socks while hiking and taking regular breaks. You should also plan ahead and incorporate rest days into your schedule.
Symptoms of a hiker’s rash are similar to those of a case of blisters. They appear as red patches, raised welts, and dots, usually on the lower legs. The rash may be itchy or burning, and it may also be accompanied by fever, weight loss, or general illness. If you have experienced any of these symptoms while hiking, it is best to see a medical professional to avoid complications. A compression sock can help with the itching and burning that often accompany hiker’s rash.
Wrapping Up
We hope that this article has helped you learn about the different ways to treat injuries while camping. By being prepared and knowing what to do in case of an injury, you can help ensure that your camping trip is enjoyable and safe for everyone involved. Thanks for reading!