We’ve all been there. You’re rushing to get ready for work, your mind is on your commute, and suddenly—ouch. The iron slips. In a split second, a mundane morning routine turns into a painful burn or, in worst-case scenarios, a small fire. While household accidents happen, your reaction in the first few seconds determines whether it remains a minor injury or becomes a medical emergency. Based on standard emergency care protocols, here is the "Cool" rule you need to know and the critical steps to take if your clothing catches fire. Treating the Burn: Why You Must Use Cool Water (Not Ice) If you touch a hot iron or stove, your immediate priority is to stop the burning process in your skin. The most effective method is simple: treat the burn by applying cool water gently to the affected area. Why it works: Cool water lowers the temperature of the tissue, stopping the heat from penetrating deeper into your skin layers. What to avoid: Do not use high-pressure sprays or ice, wh...
Bringing a new life into the world is an experience filled with immense joy, but it’s also a time when a woman's body undergoes dramatic changes. Among the many potential complications, one stands out as a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide: postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). While this might sound alarming, understanding what it is, why it happens, and how it’s managed is the first step toward safety and empowerment for every expectant parent. Postpartum hemorrhage isn't just a little extra bleeding; it’s defined as a significant, often life-threatening, loss of blood after delivery. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) provides a modern definition, focusing on a cumulative blood loss of 1,000 mL or more, accompanied by signs of hypovolemia , or a sharp drop in blood volume. This redefinition moved the focus from a single number to the overall clinical picture, ensuring that a woman's body—and not just a measurement—guides the care she recei...