A wheal or edematous lesion that appears after a game of paintball is basically a collection of blood in a specific area of the body due to an impact during the game. The hives or bruises become evident when the capillaries (small blood vessels) rupture due to the shock or blow from the skin. The characteristics vary over time and it is possible to determine the exact moment when a bruise appeared simply by observing its color. Usually the affected area will recover to its original state within two to three weeks of the injury occurring. It is generally impossible to get rid of a wheal right away, all you can do is promote the body's natural healing process and relieve pain.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Treating a Wheal
Step 1. Find out when to see a doctor
Normally a wheal of this type does not require any intervention. However, if the following symptoms develop, seek medical attention.
- Very painful swelling in the area surrounding the wheal.
- The wheal does not subside within a week.
- A bump forms in the surrounding area.
- The wheal affects the nose or eye area.
- A raised area is formed affected by a serious discoloration.
- A bruise forms showing the pores of the skin (as if it were polka dots).
- You notice abnormal bleeding in other areas, for example from the nose, with passing of urine or feces.
Step 2. As soon as you notice a wheal, wash the affected area with soap and water
All dirt and debris trapped inside must be removed to prevent infections. After washing, pat the skin with a clean napkin. Rubbing it could cause irritation and make the situation worse. You can be sure to clean the area thoroughly using isopropyl alcohol or an antibiotic ointment, but alcohol should not be applied to a cut or open wound.
Step 3. Make hot and cold packs
Within the first 48 hours of the wheal formation, apply a cold compress. Low temperatures compress blood vessels, thereby reducing blood supply and inflammation in the affected area. Afterward, apply a warm compress, which can help combat pain and swelling.
- You can buy instant ice at the drugstore. Just make sure you don't apply it directly to the skin, wrap it up with a towel first. You can also put ice cubes in a plastic bag or use a bag of frozen vegetables.
- Be sure to wrap the ice or cold compress with a towel or cloth to protect yourself from chilblains.
- The cold compress should be left on for 10 minutes at a time. Repeat several times a day until completely healed.
- After 48 hours, wet a sponge with warm water and apply it to the lesion.
Step 4. Take over-the-counter pain relievers
A wheal can be treated with non-prescription pain relievers. This can combat wound discomfort, but also reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are the most effective over-the-counter pain relievers there are for relieving pain and swelling. Follow the instructions on the package insert.
- Before taking an over-the-counter medicine you should always talk to your pharmacist to make sure it does not interact with other medications you are taking.
Step 5. Rest and keep the affected area elevated
In the first 24-48 hours it is recommended to stop any activities that could worsen the situation. This aids in the healing process without causing further injury or damage to the affected tissues and muscles. The affected area should be kept elevated above the heart.
Part 2 of 3: Try Unverified Home Remedies
Step 1. Try using banana peels or raw eggs
According to some people, they give good results in treating wheals and bruises. If the hematoma doesn't respond positively to other methods, try massaging the peel of a ripe banana on the affected area or breaking an egg on the wound.
Step 2. Use vitamins K and C
According to some anecdotal evidence, increasing your intake of vitamins K and C can help treat a wheal. This may be because they both have a positive effect on the immune system.
- Go to the pharmacy to see if they sell vitamin K creams. Ask about how to apply. Some people find that vitamin K accelerates healing.
- Vitamin C is found in foods such as citrus fruits, pineapples, and apples. Taking larger amounts naturally can affect the healing time of a wheal.
Step 3. Take a bath with Epsom salts, available in perfumery and supermarkets
Prepare a hot bath and add about a cup of salts. Let them dissolve and soak for about 20 minutes.
It can also be effective to add essential oils, such as lavender or geranium
Part 3 of 3: Preventing bumps
Step 1. Examine yourself after playing paintball
The sooner you treat a wheal, the better. After the game is over, observe the body to see if there are any signs of injury or injury. Clean them and use a cold compress as soon as possible.
Step 2. Play paintball sober
You shouldn't do this under the influence of alcohol or other cognitive impairing substances. This can lower inhibitions and impair coordination in general, increasing the susceptibility to accidents. If you are drunk or under the influence of drugs you also risk having poor judgment skills, neglecting the correct use of equipment.
Step 3. Make sure the ground is safe
It is important that it is solid to prevent injury during a match.
- If it has rained recently, do not play, as wet ground can be dangerous.
- Prefer flat terrain and open to a wooded area full of hills and cliffs.
Step 4. Use protective equipment
Paintball balls are hard and without adequate padding can cause serious injuries. You should cover your arms, legs, hands, feet, chest, face and eyes. While you can still get bruises and bruises despite protection, it can prevent more serious injuries.
