Find expert answers to your health questions

American Red Cross

Our Mission

Since 1881, the American Red Cross has aided victims of natural disasters and empowered people to respond to emergencies and help others. It also supports military members and their families; collects, processes and distributes blood; offers community services for the needy; provides international relief and development; and teaches preparedness and health & safety courses such as first aid/CPR.

Activity

  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    How is asthma medication delivered?
    The most common way to take long-term control and quick-relief asthma medications is by inhaling them. Inhalation allows the medication to reach the airways faster and work quickly. There also are fewer side effects. Medications are inhaled using a metered dose inhaler (MDI), a dry powder...  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    How should I help someone with an asthma inhaler?
    TIP: Always obtain consent before giving care and wash your hands immediately after giving care. Read and follow all instructions printed on the inhaler prior to administering the medication to the person.

    If the person has medication for asthma, help him or her take it if asked:
    • Help
    ...  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    What is a fracture?
    A fracture is a complete break, a chip, or a crack in a bone.



    A fall, a blow, or sometimes even a twisting movement can cause a fracture. Fractures are open or closed.
     Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    What are dislocations?
    A dislocation is the movement of a bone at a joint away from its normal position.



    This movement usually is caused by a violent force tearing the ligaments that hold the bones in place. When a bone is moved out of place, the joint no longer functions. The displaced end of the bone often...  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    What are signs of an asthma attack?
    You often can tell when a person is having an asthma attack by the hoarse whistling sound made while exhaling. This sound, known as wheezing, occurs because air becomes trapped in the lungs. Coughing after exercise, crying, or laughing are other signs that an asthma attack could begin.

    ...  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    Should I call 9-1-1 if my child has a fever?
    Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number if the child or infant has signs of life-threatening conditions, such as unconsciousness or trouble breathing.

    Also, call if this is the first time that a child has had a febrile seizure, the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or is repeated,...  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    Should I seek medical care for a child with diaper rash?
    Seek care from a health care provider if diaper rash:
    • Develops blisters or pus-filled sores
    • Does not go away within two to three days
    • Gets worse
     Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    What is epinephrine?
    Epinephrine is a form of adrenaline that works in the body to counteract an anaphylactic reaction.
     Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    Are febrile seizures harmful?
    Most febrile seizures last less than five minutes and are not life threatening. However, there are conditions where the child may require additional care. Immediately after a febrile seizure, it is important to cool the body if a fever is present.  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    How does a metered dosed inhaler (MDI) deliver asthma medication?
    A metered dose inhaler (MDI) sends a measured dose of medicine in mist form directly into the person’s mouth. The person gently presses down the top of the inhaler.

    This causes a small amount of pressurized gas to push the medicine out quickly. Sometimes a “spacer” is used to control the...  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    Should I call 9-1-1 for someone who is in anaphylactic shock?
    Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number if the person:
    • Has trouble breathing
    • Complains of the throat tightening
    • Explains that he or she is subject to severe allergic reactions
    • Is or becomes unconscious
     Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    Should I put anything in the mouth of child having a febrile seizure?
    • Do not put anything in the child’s mouth or between the teeth.
    • Children having seizures rarely bite their tongues or cheeks with enough force to cause significant bleeding; however, some blood may be present.
     Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    Should I call 9-1-1 for someone with a broken pelvis?
    Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number if you suspect a pelvic injury.  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    Should I seek medical care for a child who has diarrhea or is vomiting?
    A healthcare provider should be contacted if:
    • Diarrhea or vomiting persists for more than a few days.
    • The child is not replacing lost liquids or cannot retain liquids.
    • The child has not had a wet diaper in three or more hours or, if older, has not had any urine output for more than six
    ...  Full Post
  • American Red Cross
    American Red Cross answered:
    What is an antihistamine?
    An antihistamine is a type of medication. It lessens the effects of compounds released by the body during an allergic reaction.
     Full Post