What to do after a dog bite: Essential tips and precautions you can follow
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Rather than panicking, take a deep breath, assess the wound, and seek medical help if the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, or showing signs of infection.
Proper treatment can prevent bacterial infections and serious complications. Don't delay the treatment to avoid long-term consequences, and get help as soon as possible.
Dog bite safety: Here's what you must do immediately
After a dog bite, the first step is to create distance from the dog and prioritise your safety.
Next, if the owner is present, ask them if the dog has been vaccinated against rabies. Ask for the dog's vaccination history and get their contact information, including their vet's details.
If the dog is stray, ask people living in the colony or nearby areas if they know the dog's caretaker or vaccination status.
Even if it's your dog, ensure it's up-to-date on rabies shots, as any animal can bite unexpectedly. Gather as much information as possible to ensure your safety and potential future treatment.
Possible health risks of a dog bite
People with weakened immune systems or diabetes are more susceptible to severe complications caused by a dog bite. According to Healthline, deep dog bites can cause nerve, muscle, or blood vessel damage, while large dogs can inflict broken bones. Seek medical attention to prevent these complications.
Here are the possible complications from a dog bite:
Bacterial infections like Staphylococcus, Pasteurella, or Capnocytophaga
Nerve and muscle damage
Broke bones, especially in hands, feet, or legs
Rabies, if the dog's vaccination history is incomplete
Scarring can be permanent, but medical techniques can help reduce its appearance
Death is rare, but more common in children under the age of 10 years.
How to prevent infection after a dog bite
Dog bites can introduce dangerous bacteria into the body. This can cause serious infections to occur when left untreated. According to reports, follow these tips to prevent infection.
To prevent infection from a dog bite:
Wash the wound immediately with soap and water.
Apply topical antibiotics like povidone iodine.
Cover the wound and change bandages daily.
Monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, increased pain).
Seek medical attention if symptoms appear, which can range from 24 hours to 14 days after the bite.
If prescribed antibiotics, complete the full course (usually 1-2 weeks) even if symptoms subside.
Urgent warning signs after a dog bite: When to seek medical care
Don't delay medical attention if you're unsure about the severity of the bite or your symptoms. Consult a doctor before the infection from a dog bite gets serious.
The dog's rabies vaccine history is unknown, or the dog appears sick.
Bleeding won't stop.
Severe pain or exposed bone, tendons, or muscle.
Loss of function or mobility.
Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, or fluid).
Uncertain about tetanus shot status.
Experiencing weakness, dizziness, fever, or disorientation.
Also read |
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
13 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Orthopedic surgeon shares 3 strategies to maintain bone health and prevent age-related frailty
Our bones not only provide structure to the body but also protect vital organs, support muscles, and store calcium. Maintaining a strong skeletal system is essential for preventing fractures, maintaining mobility and overall well-being. Bones go through a process of remodeling - old bone tissue is constantly replaced with new ones. This process is much more efficient during childhood and adolescence, reaching its peak at 30, after which the rate of losing bone mass exceeds the synthesis of new tissue. Physical exercise, nutrition and lifestyle choices affect bone health.(Pexel) Bone health depends on several factors including genetics, physical activity, nutrition, and hormonal balance. Some people are more susceptible to osteoporosis, a condition where bones strength is compromised due to loss of bone mass, including ones with family history of the disease, those with white or Asian genetics, and especially women after the age of 30. Dr. Vonda Wright, orthopedic surgeon and champion of women's health and longevity, shared three key strategies to maintain strong and healthy bones throughout life with The Midlife Project on Instagram. Physical activity High intensity exercises and weight training have been proven to help build new bone tissue and promote stronger bones. Dr. Wright recommends simple daily activities like jumping, running around, and not merely climbing stairs but 'pound(ing) up the stairs' to help build bone mass. The bone expert mentioned, 'research has shown the mechanical impact of pounding your bones translates into biochemical feedback which causes your bone to say, 'Oh, a lot's being expected of us. Let's lay down better bone.'' This needs to be inculcated since childhood because that is when bone remodeling rate is at its highest. An article on Healthline states that performing weight bearing exercises, especially for women, have been found to show 'increases in bone mineral density, bone strength and bone size, as well as reductions in markers of bone turnover and inflammation.' Also Read | Orthopaedic surgeon warns 1 in 3 women face osteoporosis fracture risk, shares 10 prevention habits: 'Jump 30 times' Nutrition A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamin D, calcium and other minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, is essential in maintaining bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Dr. Wright advises against calorie restriction diets highlighting the importance of proper nutrition with adequate intake of protein and minerals for optimal bone development. 'We cannot calorie restrict and expect to build enough bone density partly because our bones require protein and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, vitamin D.' Calorie restriction can negatively impact bone density and increase the risk of fractures. Also Read | Orthopaedic surgeon warns 'vitamin D deficiency is causing joint pain in millennials'; here's how to protect your bones Lifestyle choices 'If we want the healthiest bones ever, can we please stop smoking?' remarked Dr. Wright further elaborating, 'We think it's only about lung cancer, but it inhibits bone growth.' A study by the National Library of Medicine states that tobacco use, like smoking and vaping, causes imbalances in bone turnover, resulting in reduced bone mass and increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Another article by Mayo Clinic points out that alcohol consumption should be done in moderation in order to protect bone health - more than one alcoholic drink for women and two for men can significantly increase the risk of weak bones. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Economic Times
2 days ago
- Economic Times
10 kg weight loss with chatGPT: AI meal plan helped Indian expert lose fat with snacks
Synopsis Artificial intelligence is now being used in weight management, with ChatGPT emerging as a tool for creating personalized diet plans. Indian health and wellness expert Simran Valecha shared that she lost 10 kg by following a ChatGPT-generated meal chart, which even allowed occasional ice cream. She revealed the exact prompt she used, highlighting how AI can simplify planning by factoring in lifestyle, work hours, and food preferences. However, Valecha stressed that sustainable results require more than just a diet plan, pointing to the need for daily support and guidance. ChatGPT Designed a Diet That Led to 10 Kg Weight Loss Artificial intelligence is no longer limited to offices and classrooms—it is now finding its way into kitchens and fitness routines. From designing customized diets to tracking calories, AI tools like ChatGPT are being used as unconventional companions in the weight-loss journey. While experts remain cautious, success stories continue to surface, with one Indian health coach crediting ChatGPT for helping her shed 10 kilograms without giving up her favorite and wellness expert Simran Valecha shared that she lost 10 kg by following a personalized ChatGPT meal plan. Interestingly, her transformation included occasional indulgences like ice cream, making her story stand out in a space often dominated by rigid diets. Valecha disclosed on Instagram that she used a specific ChatGPT prompt to build her plan. The request asked the AI to create an Indian diet chart with three main meals and two to four snacks, while factoring in job hours, workout timings, and personal food preferences. By structuring the input with her details, she received a diet that was practical and sustainable. According to Valecha, this personalization was key to sticking with the the AI helped design the framework, Valecha emphasized that successful weight loss depends on more than a digital plan. She noted that dieters need daily support—whether it is guidance on restaurant eating, strategies for late-night cravings, or clarity when facing conflicting nutrition advice. Her experience highlighted that long-term results come from a mix of planning, discipline, and support systems. Valecha's story is part of a wider trend. Worldwide, people have turned to ChatGPT for health transformations. Reports include a man who lost 27 kg in six months and shared his journey on YouTube. Further, Cristina Gheiceanu a Swiss content creator, shed 7 kg by using AI instead of complex diet apps. However, experts also caution that not all experiences are positive. In one case, a 60-year-old reportedly developed health complications after following an AI-generated diet, underlining the risks of using such plans without supervision. Healthline observes that AI can be useful for generating meal plans and calorie counts, offering a good starting point for those looking to begin their weight-loss journey. However, experts stress that it cannot assess individual health conditions, adjust to progress, or provide emotional support. Professional guidance from doctors and nutritionists remains essential. Simran Valecha's experience shows how AI can simplify weight management by making diets more personalized and realistic. Her 10 kg weight loss demonstrates that such tools can work, provided they are used responsibly. Yet, nutritionists remind that technology should remain a supplement, not a substitute, for expert medical and dietary advice.
NDTV
3 days ago
- NDTV
ChatGPT For Weight Loss? How A Wellness Expert Dropped 10 Kg With AI
ChatGPT has been making waves since its launch in 2022. From planning travel itineraries to creating sustainable fitness plans, people are finding ways to integrate the artificial intelligence (AI) tool into their everyday lives. Simran Valecha, a health and weight-loss expert, is among the people who used ChatGPT to create a weight-loss plan. In an old Instagram post, she revealed that she lost 10 kg - all while eating ice-cream - thanks to an AI-created diet plan. Simran Valecha's Weight Loss Prompt That Helped Her Lose Kilos She even shared the prompt that helped her lose weight. "Steal my ChatGPT prompt and create your own weight loss plan," she wrote in the caption. The prompt she used: "I am (height) and I weigh (weight). I want to lose weight in a sustainable manner. Can you please prepare an Indian diet chart for me that includes 3 main meals and 2 -4 snacks. I work (timing: ex, 9-6) job and spend (hours spent travelling)/I work from home. I workout in the (morning/evening/night). My preferences for breakfast include (write your preferences). My preferences for lunch include (write your preferences). My preferences for dinner include (write your preferences)." According to Valecha, the AI-generated meal plan catered to her needs and preferences, making it easier to stick to. She added that AI has changed how we live. "We can all get a diet plan online - I understand that what you actually need to lose weight." 1. Support to actually implement the diet because we understand that every day looks different. 2. Someone to guide you on how to eat at restaurants during your diet. 3. Someone to talk to when you eat a brownie at 2 am because you were stressed. 4. Someone to tell you what to actually do - because every "expert" is offering different opinions on how to lose weight. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Simran - Health, Wellness & Weight Loss Expert (@simvalecha) Is Using ChatGPT For Weight Loss A Good Idea According to Healthline, AI-based fitness plans isn't all bad - but it comes with its limitations. The pros include creating general meal plans and offering basic information, which can be a good starting point. However, the cons are significant: AI can't offer nuanced advice, assess your physical condition, or track your progress. It may even provide outdated or misleading information. Experts suggest that while ChatGPT can be a helpful tool, it should never replace professional medical or nutritional guidance. You should always consult your doctor before making any major lifestyle or dietary changes.
