VIDEO: Unfortunate Cyclist Covered With Spines After Hitting Cactus Patch

Deep breaths in solidarity with this poor Argentinian cyclist who crashed into a cactus patch and came out looking like a pin cushion. Spandex not ideal in this scenario. Diego Moreno hit a pothole while cruising in the Parque de la Ciudad area of Buenos Aires and ended up in cactus thatch. Sympathetic passersby came to his aid roadside before he was taken to a hospital where he had thousands of spines removed from his skin. 100% respeto for this caballero’s composure, that’s gotta hurt:

If you find yourself with cactus spines embedded in your skin, prompt and careful removal is crucial to avoid further irritation and potential infection. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

Assess the situation: Determine the extent of the injury and the number of spines involved. If it’s a small area with only a few spines, you might be able to handle it yourself. For larger or deeply embedded spines, seek medical assistance.
Wash your hands: Before attempting any removal, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
Sterilize tools: Clean a pair of fine-tipped tweezers or needles with rubbing alcohol or by carefully heating them with a flame until red hot. Allow them to cool before use.
Remove spines: Gently grasp the spine as close to the entry point as possible with the tweezers and pull it out in the same direction it entered. Avoid squeezing the area, as it may force the spine deeper.
Clean the area: Once all spines are removed, cleanse the affected area with mild soap and water. Pat it dry gently with a clean towel.
Apply antibiotic ointment: To prevent infection, apply a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment.
Cover the wound: Place a sterile adhesive bandage or dressing over the area to protect it from further contamination.
Monitor for infection: Watch for signs of infection like redness, swelling, increased pain, or pus formation. If these occur, seek medical attention promptly.

If you encounter difficulty or notice signs of infection, it’s essential to visit a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.