Bleeding: Types, Causes, First Aid Awareness & When to Seek Help (Canada)

Bleeding refers to the loss of blood. It may occur externally (from an opening in the skin or natural body opening) or internally (when blood collects within tissues or body spaces due to damage to a vessel or organ).

Mild bleeding from small cuts and scrapes is common and can often be managed with basic first aid. More significant bleeding—especially internal bleeding—can be life-threatening and requires medical assessment.

Why it matters in Canada & workplaces

Bleeding injuries occur in homes, sports, schools, and workplaces. First aid training helps Canadians recognize when bleeding is minor, when emergency medical services are needed, and how to provide calm support while waiting for professional care.

Scenario

During a lunchtime break at work, a staff member accidentally cut their finger while opening a package. A colleague helped clean the area, applied a simple dressing, and monitored for continued bleeding. The injury was minor and healed without complications.

Types of bleeding

External bleeding

Occurs when blood exits through a break in the skin or through a natural opening such as the mouth, nose, or rectum. Small cuts and abrasions can often be managed with basic first aid.

Internal bleeding

Occurs inside the body when blood escapes into tissues or cavities. It is not always visible and may be accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, swelling, or faintness. Internal bleeding is considered a medical emergency.

Causes

Bleeding can result from:

Medical conditions

Certain conditions affect blood clotting or blood vessels such as liver disorders, some cancers, bleeding disorders (e.g., haemophilia), vitamin deficiencies, or complications of chronic illness.

Trauma

Injuries from falls, sports, or accidents may cause bruises, cuts, lacerations, or deeper tissue injury.

Medications

Blood thinners, some antibiotics used long-term, and cancer therapies can increase bleeding tendencies.

When bleeding is an emergency

Seek urgent medical help if:

Bleeding is heavy or does not slow with basic first aid
Internal bleeding is suspected (e.g., dizziness, weakness, abdominal swelling, vomiting blood, or black stools)
The person has a known bleeding disorder or takes blood-thinning medication
Bleeding occurs after a significant injury
A wound may require stitches or medical closure
A foreign object is embedded in the wound
There are signs of infection later (heat, swelling, discharge, fever)

Emergency responders can provide instructions while help is on the way and may advise keeping the person calm, still, and reassured.

First aid awareness

General first aid awareness for bleeding focuses on:

Staying calm and reassuring the person
Using clean cloths or dressings for minor external bleeding
Avoiding removal of large embedded objects (let professionals manage)
Seeking prompt medical care for severe bleeding, internal bleeding concerns, or uncontrolled bleeding
Encouraging first aid and CPR training for workplaces, sports groups, and childcare settings

Workplace first aid kits, training, and hazard assessments help prevent many bleeding-related injuries.

Diagnosis & treatment

Healthcare professionals determine why bleeding is occurring and treat the underlying cause. Treatment may involve examining the wound, closing it if needed, addressing blood loss or dehydration, and evaluating for internal injury or medical conditions.

Prevention & workplace considerations

Strategies that reduce bleeding-related injuries include:

Safe tool use and housekeeping in workshops, kitchens, and warehouses
Protective equipment during sports and certain work tasks
Managing medications and chronic conditions with a health professional
First aid training and stocked workplace first aid kits

FAQ

What makes internal bleeding serious?
Internal bleeding may not be visible, and significant blood loss can occur before anyone realizes it. Medical evaluation is important for suspected internal bleeding.

When should a cut receive medical attention?
Cuts that are deep, gaping, contaminated, or do not stop bleeding may require stitches or medical closure.

Do blood thinner medications increase bleeding risk?
They can. People on blood thinners are encouraged to seek guidance sooner if injuries occur.

Can stress or fear worsen bleeding?
Stress may make an injury seem more overwhelming. Reassurance and calm support are helpful first aid measures.

Is workplace first aid training useful for bleeding injuries?
Yes. Training helps people recognize when to call for emergency medical services and how to support someone safely.

Educational note

This material supports general first aid awareness and safety education. For specific injuries or concerns, emergency services and health professionals can provide appropriate assessment and care.