How to stop bleeding from a head injury wound
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Bleeding from head wounds is generally controlled through direct pressure, elevating the head, using tourniquets, cold compresses, and prompt medical treatment. Cover the wound with a clean towel or gauze and apply firm, even pressure. This is the most common and effective initial method for controlling bleeding, as physical pressure helps reduce blood flow and is suitable for most minor to moderate wounds.
Generally, bleeding from head trauma wounds can be controlled through direct pressure, elevating the head, using a tourniquet, cold compresses, and seeking prompt medical attention. Specific methods are analyzed as follows:
1. Direct pressure: Cover the wound with a clean towel or gauze and apply steady, even pressure. This is the most common and effective initial method for controlling bleeding, reducing blood flow through physical compression, and is suitable for most minor to moderate wounds.
2. Elevating the head: Raise the injured person's head above the level of the heart. This helps reduce blood flow to the wound, thereby slowing down bleeding and buying time for further treatment.
3. Using a tourniquet: If bleeding is severe and direct pressure is ineffective, a tourniquet may be considered. However, it should be applied above the wound on the side closer to the heart, and not too tightly to avoid tissue damage. Immediate professional medical assistance should also be sought.
4. Cold compress: Apply an ice pack or cold towel around the wound area. Cold compresses help constrict blood vessels, reduce bleeding, and also alleviate pain and swelling.
5. Prompt medical care: Regardless of the measures taken, head trauma wounds should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Doctors can assess the wound, perform thorough cleaning and suturing if necessary, and prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
When managing head trauma wounds, remain calm, quickly assess the severity of the injury, prioritize effective hemorrhage control, and promptly contact emergency services or transport the patient to a hospital to ensure timely and professional treatment.
