With severe bleeding, any of these
may be true:
- Blood is pumping from the
wound.
- The bleeding does not stop or slow down with
pressure.
- Blood is quickly soaking through bandage after
bandage.
With moderate bleeding, any of
these may be true:
- The bleeding slows or stops with pressure but
starts again if you remove the pressure.
- The blood may soak through
a few bandages, but it is not fast or out of control.
With mild bleeding, any of these
may be true:
- The bleeding stops on its own or with
pressure.
- The bleeding stops or slows to an ooze or trickle after
15 minutes of pressure. It may ooze or trickle for up to 45 minutes.
If you have anemia or low blood volume for other reasons, such
as recent diarrhea or dehydration, blood loss from a severe cut can quickly
become serious. Scalp wound bleeding in children also can rapidly lead to
serious blood loss. Bleeding is more serious when:
- New lightheadedness occurs or you feel as if
you may pass out.
- Lightheadedness or fainting occurs when you
change position, such as rising from sitting to standing.
Serious injuries or deep cuts over the neck, chest, or
abdomen may cause internal bleeding. Watch for signs of shock.