Most of the time, cuts and wounds are small inconveniences in the course of our day. We don’t pay much attention to them, seldom taking the care to apply ointment or cover them with wound plasters. However, leaving your wounds uncovered, no matter how small, is one sure way to invite infection and bacteria.
Dealing with an infected wound can be a concerning and potentially dangerous situation. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing how to treat it can help you navigate this challenge with confidence. By familiarising yourself with these essential details, you can better navigate the challenges of wound infections and take appropriate action to promote healing and prevent further complications.
Causes of infected wounds
Understanding the various causes of infected wounds can help with taking necessary precautions to prevent infections:
- Bacterial contamination
-When a wound occurs, it is essential to clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or bacteria that may be present. Failure to do so increases the risk of infection.
-Wounds that are exposed to dirty or contaminated environments, such as soil, dirty water, or unsanitary surfaces, can introduce bacteria into the wound, leading to infection.
- Deep or puncture wounds
-Deep wounds, such as those caused by a deep cut or laceration, may be challenging to clean thoroughly. Additionally, wounds that cannot be closed immediately, like puncture wounds, have a higher risk of infection.
-These wounds provide a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the body, as they can reach underlying tissues or organs more easily.
- Contaminated objects
-When tools, such as scissors or knives, or objects used in wound care, like bandages or dressings, are not properly sterilised, they can introduce bacteria into the wound, increasing the risk of infection.
-When wounds are left uncovered, dirt, debris, or foreign bodies, can introduce bacteria into the wound and hinder the healing process.
- Compromised immune system:
-Individuals with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, may have a compromised immune system, making them more susceptible to infections, including infected skin wounds.
-People with immunodeficiency disorders, either inherited or acquired, also have weakened immune systems, making them more prone to infections, including wound infections.
- Poor blood circulation
-Conditions that affect blood flow, such as peripheral artery disease, can impair the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the wound site, making it more susceptible to infections and delaying the healing process.
-Inadequate blood flow due to conditions like chronic venous insufficiency can impair the removal of waste products and bacteria from the wound, increasing the risk of infection.
- Foreign bodies
-When foreign objects, such as wood splinters or metal fragments, remain lodged in the wound, they can act as a source of infection by harbouring bacteria and preventing the wound from healing properly.
-Implants used in surgical procedures, such as joint replacements or pacemakers, can increase the risk of infection if bacteria colonise the implant site or enter the body through the surgical incision.
Symptoms of an infected wound
It is important to note that not all infected wound symptoms are similar. Monitoring the wound closely for signs of infection is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are a few other infected wound symptoms you can look out for:
- Increased pain and discomfort
-Initially, a wound may cause some discomfort or pain. However, if the wound becomes infected, the pain can intensify and become more persistent, often throbbing or pulsating.
-The infected wound may exhibit a continuous throbbing or pulsating sensation due to inflammation and increased blood flow to the affected area.
- Redness and swelling
-An infected wound often displays redness and swelling in the surrounding skin. The area may appear redder than the surrounding healthy skin and feel tender to the touch.
-The increased blood flow to the infected area can cause the skin to feel warm when compared to the surrounding healthy skin.
- Pus or discharge
-An infected wound may produce pus, which is a thick, yellowish or greenish discharge. Pus is a sign of infection and consists of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris.
-The presence of infection can lead to an unpleasant odour emanating from the wound. This odour is often caused by the breakdown of tissues and the release of volatile compounds by bacteria.
- Fever and systemic symptoms
-In some cases, an infection in a wound can cause the body's temperature to rise, resulting in a fever. Fever is the body's natural response to an infection and can be accompanied by sweating and chills.
-Systemic symptoms such as fatigue, a general feeling of illness (malaise), or chills can accompany an infected skin wound, indicating that the infection may have spread beyond the wound site.
- Delayed healing
-An infected wound may show signs of delayed or impaired healing. Despite proper wound care, the wound may not heal as expected, or there may be a regression in the healing progress.
-If the wound shows new or worsening symptoms over time, such as increasing pain, swelling, or redness, it may indicate an infection or complications that require medical attention.
Treating an infected wound
Knowing how to clean an infected wound is a vital step in its treatment and prevention of complications. By following these directions, you can optimise the healing process and ensure the best possible outcome for the infected wound.
- Cleanse the wound
-Before treating the wound, wash your hands with soap and clean water to minimise the risk of introducing additional bacteria.
-Use a mild soap and lukewarm water to clean the infected wound gently. Avoid scrubbing the wound aggressively as it may cause further damage or spread the infection.
- Apply antiseptic
-Apply an antiseptic solution to the wound to help kill bacteria on and around the wound area.
-Read and follow the instructions provided with the antiseptic solution to ensure proper usage and dilution.
- Use antibiotic ointment
-Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment on the wound: After cleansing the wound, apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment to the infected skin wound. This helps to prevent further bacterial growth and promote healing.
-Cover the wound with a sterile dressing: Place a sterile dressing, such as a sterile gauze pad or adhesive bandage, over the wound to protect it from external contaminants and aid in the healing process.
- Keep the wound covered and dry
-Regularly change the dressing as instructed by a healthcare professional. This ensures a clean and sterile environment for the wound to heal.
-Keep the wound dry and avoid exposing it to excessive moisture. Moisture can create an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Cover the wound with a waterproof dressing if necessary.
- Watch for signs of infection
-Keep a close eye on the infected wound for any signs of worsening infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, or discharge.
-If the symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can assess the wound and provide appropriate treatment.
- Seek medical attention
-Deep wounds or those showing signs of severe infection may require medical intervention. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
-Depending on the severity of the infection, a healthcare professional may perform wound cultures to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection, and in some cases, wound closure techniques such as sutures or surgical procedures may be necessary.
Treating an infected wound should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially for severe or deep infections.
Conclusion
Prompt and proper action is crucial when dealing with infected wounds. Whether it's cleansing the wound, applying appropriate treatments, or seeking medical assistance when necessary, your proactive approach can make a significant difference in the healing process. By staying informed and prepared, you can confidently address infected wounds, ensuring a smoother recovery and overall well-being. Stay vigilant, prioritise wound care, and arm yourself with the knowledge to overcome the obstacles that infected wounds may pose.
Disclaimer
Please note that the above recommendations are general care tips. Consult a healthcare professional in case of any uncertainty around wound treatment and healing.
Always see your doctor if a wound is deep, bleeding profusely or showing signs of infection. For diabetic patients especially, proper wound care holds the utmost importance. Do not hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor or your podiatrist, even when it comes to minor wounds and cuts – especially if they’re on your feet.
The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Although compiled with great care, it is not a substitute for professional advice. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult your doctor immediately.
For further information regarding Hansaplast products, please contact us via email at customer.care@bdfindia.com