Ozljeda

Ozljeda is a noun in Croatian and other South Slavic languages meaning injury or harm to the body. It is used in medical and general contexts to refer to damage to tissues resulting from an external force, substance, or disease process. Etymologically, it derives from the verb ozlijediti, to injure.

Types and examples: Common categories include contusions (bruises); lacerations (cuts); abrasions (scrapes); puncture wounds; sprains and strains; fractures; burns (thermal, chemical). Wounds can be acute or chronic depending on healing.

Causes: Accidents, sports injuries, falls, occupational hazards, violence, thermal or chemical exposure, and exposure to excessive sun or radiation can cause ozljede.

Symptoms: Pain, bleeding, swelling, redness, deformity, loss of function, or numbness. The assessment may involve physical examination, wound inspection, and, if needed, imaging to determine bone or soft tissue involvement and to assess contamination.

Treatment: Initial management focuses on stopping bleeding, cleaning, and dressing wounds; pain relief; tetanus vaccination or booster as indicated; more severe injuries may require suturing, immobilization, or referral to specialists. Antibiotics may be prescribed for infected wounds.

Prevention and recovery: Good protective practices, prompt wound care, proper vaccination, and adherence to rehabilitation plans support healing and reduce complications. The term ozljeda covers a broad range of injuries and is not a substitute for precise medical diagnosis.