Wound Infection
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
A wound infection occurs when bacteria enters a break in the skin. The infection may involve just the skin, or affect deeper tissues or organs close to the wound.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- You feel short of breath.
- Your heart is beating faster than usual.
- You feel confused.
- Blood soaks through your bandages.
- Your wound comes apart or feels like it is ripping.
- You have severe pain.
- You see red streaks coming from the infected area.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever or chills.
- You have more pain, redness, or swelling near your wound.
- Your symptoms do not improve.
- The skin around your wound feels numb.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Antibiotics help treat a bacterial infection.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Care for your wound as directed:
Keep your wound clean and dry. You may need to cover your wound when you bathe so it does not get wet. Clean your wound as directed with soap and water or wound cleaner. Put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty.
Help your wound heal:
- Eat a variety of healthy foods. Examples include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Healthy foods may help you heal faster. You may also need to take vitamins and minerals. Ask if you need to be on a special diet.
- Manage other health conditions. Follow your provider's directions to manage health conditions that can cause slow wound healing. Examples include high blood pressure and diabetes.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause slow wound healing. Ask your provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your provider before you use these products.
Follow up with your doctor in 1 to 2 days:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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