What are the three types of bleeding?

The three types of bleeding recognized in medical contexts are arterial, venous, and capillary.

Arterial bleeding is characterized by bright red blood that is often spurting or pulsing, which occurs due to the high pressure in arteries. This type of bleeding can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention.

Venous bleeding involves dark red blood flowing steadily and can occur from cuts or injuries to veins, which are under less pressure than arteries. While still serious, venous bleeding is generally easier to control than arterial bleeding.

Capillary bleeding is the most common type, usually presenting as a slow oozing of blood from small vessels and is often observed in minor cuts and scrapes. It typically stops on its own without the need for extensive medical treatment.

Understanding these distinctions is critical for first responders and healthcare professionals as it affects how they treat the injury and prioritize care.