How to Recognize Whether Your Wound is Infected

Everyone looks forward to when the wound will finally heal. For this reason, slow healing wounds can be such a hustle because you are experiencing pain and discomfort, which prevents you from efficiently carrying on with your routines. Complications will increase when they get infected. Severe cases have resulted in amputations or even death. Ashley Huddleston, MD, is a wound care specialist in Fort Worth who offers care to accelerate your healing process.

To avoid the infection spreading to the rest of the body or bones, you are advised to seek medical attention as soon as the infection sets in. Here are effective ways to spot contamination:

Fever

It is normal to have a fever of about 100 degrees Fahrenheit after undergoing surgery. However, if you begin experiencing temperatures above that point, it could be an early sign that your wound is infected. You may also have headaches and loss of appetite. If you realize this, it is important that you seek immediate medical attention. Have the doctor examine your wound further. Using antimicrobial dressings to cover open wounds also helps reduce infection.

Unending wound pain

No one would expect to have a wound without pain. It is a common feeling, especially just after surgery. However, it is supposed to subside as healing continues gradually. When the results are the complete opposite and pain increase instead, then your wound may be infected. If there is no improvement noted, consult a doctor for further examination.

Swelling and color change

The inflammatory process during the healing period may make your wound to swell and show redness in color. However, it is expected that the symptoms should gradually fade away in a couple of days. The redness should not be expanding. Otherwise, it will mean there is an infection, and your wound is not healing. A qualified physician should be able to look, inspect, and begin treatment.

Loss of function

After going through an injury or surgery, it is normal to experience difficulties when moving the area. But it should not be impossible. You are only supposed to feel mild numbness and tingling. If you are losing movement around your wound, it might mean the bones, joints, or nerves are damaged. Seek further treatment to avoid complications.

Hot skin around the wound

The body will respond to an injury by sending fighting cells to the site. Therefore, it is normal for the skin near your wound to be warm. Increasing hotness that does not seem to cool is a sign of infection, meaning your wound will heal slowly.

Fluid drainage

When you notice green or cloudy drainage fluid with a foul smell, it is a sign of infection. Usually, it is supposed to be slightly yellow or completely clear. Using negative pressure therapy or absorbent dressings may help manage the situation. Otherwise, let the doctor advise you on how to care for your wound.

People with a weak immune system, vascular diseases, or diabetes could be at a higher risk of wound infection. Early detection and treatment help to manage the situation before it becomes severe. If you need wound care, book an appointment with Wound Evolution for quicker recoveries.