Getting a cut or a wound is common, and one can manage many minor injuries at home with proper care, but at times that is not possible, and wounds can become infected. Infections can occur when harmful bacteria enter the cut, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and potential complications if left untreated.
Hence, this guide will discuss the signs of an infected wound and provide steps for effective treatment to promote proper healing and prevent the infection from spreading.
Signs and Symptoms of an Infected Cut
One of the most prominent signs of an infected wound is that it worsens instead of healing. Other signs and symptoms include:
- The skin around the wound becomes warm
- Bleeding
- Discoloration around the wound, especially red and broader than a thumb
- Foul odor from the wound
- Peeping green or yellow discharge (pus)
- Getting a fever and chills
- Swelling around the wound
- Feeling nauseous and vomiting
- Body aches and pains
- Red streaks extending from the cut toward the lymph nodes can signify a more severe infection.
Prevention and Treatment Remedies
Even if you are not sure if the wound is infected you not, you can follow these steps to treat a wound at home:
- Gather clean and sanitized equipment; you can use rubbing alcohol to clean the equipment. Then thoroughly wash and dry your hands.
- If you see any active bleeding, try to stop it by holding a clean bandage on top of the wound and applying pressure.
- Then thoroughly clean the cut with mild soap and warm water. Gently remove any debris or dirt using tweezers or other tools.
- After cleaning, apply an over-the-counter antiseptic solution to the cut to help prevent infection. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Let the skin and the wound dry in the air before putting on a bandage, which might not be necessary if the wound is minor.
Medical Treatment Includes
- A complete course of antibiotics
- Use stitches to close up the wound if it’s too deep
- Incision and drainage
- Dirty tissue removal through debridement
- Tetanus injection
When to Seek Medical Attention for an Infected Cut
You need to seek medical attention if:
- The infection does not heal within 1-2 days of proper care at home, and you develop any symptoms mentioned above, like fever, chills, redness, swelling, foul odor, etc.
- The wound is too deep or has jagged edges
- Edges of the wound are not staying together
- You are unable to clean all the debris
- The wound was caused by dirty/rusty objects or animal bites
- Non-stop bleeding
Bottom Line
You can effectively manage and treat an infected wound by recognizing the signs of infection, practicing good wound care, and seeking medical attention when necessary. If you suspect that your cut has become infected, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Paramus for same-day care.
