Abrasion refers to a type of skin injury characterized by the scraping or wearing away of the outer layer of skin due to friction or mechanical irritation. Commonly associated with activities such as falling or rubbing against a rough surface, abrasions can vary in severity from minor scrapes to deeper wounds that affect the dermis. Symptoms typically include pain, redness, and sometimes bleeding, and they may result in the formation of scabs as the skin begins to heal.
Treatment for abrasions often involves gentle cleansing of the area to prevent infection, followed by the application of an antibiotic ointment and a protective dressing if necessary. It's important to monitor the injury for signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, or pus. In many cases, especially with superficial abrasions, the skin will heal naturally without the need for professional medical intervention. However, more severe abrasions, particularly those that cover larger areas or involve deeper skin layers, may require a visit to a healthcare provider for assessment and potential treatment.