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8 Signs Of An Infected Wound

8 Signs Of An Infected Wound
Akanksha Nigam

An open cut, puncture, or surgical opening exposes the inner layers of the skin to bacteria and other infection-causing organisms. If these organisms enter the body, they may multiply and cause unusual reactions around the wound bed. 

Recognizing and catching the infection in its initial stages helps medical professionals select appropriate treatment. If you notice any of the below-mentioned signs, the wound could be infected.

8 Signs of Infected Wound

1. Redness around the wound

Usually, there is redness around a fresh wound which is a normal part of the body's natural healing response. This redness does not cause much pain and disappears in a few days as the wound heals. However, be sure to keep a close watch on the area to see if the redness is increasing. If it does, this might be a sign of an infection. 

2. Unusual pain in the wound

Naturally, an injury would hurt. Once you start treatment, the medication should gradually ease the pain. As the wound heals, pain medication will become unnecessary. But if pain increases and medication does not help, you should reach out to your doctor as it may be a sign of an infection.

3. Abnormal drainage from the wound

It is common for a wound to have clear or yellow-colored drainage. But if you see a continuous discharge that is green or tan in color and has a foul smell, this might be because of infection.

4. Fever

After surgery, the patient might have a normal fever that disappears in a few days. But if the fever persists or comes back, it might indicate an infection. 

5. A feeling of fatigue and tiredness

If a patient is feeling tired and has little energy, it might signify something unusual is happening in the body. Keep track of energy levels and if there are regular fluctuations or no signs of improvement, consult your doctor.

6. Swelling in the wound bed

Proper wound healing may include some swelling in or around the affected area. But if the swelling is increasing and spreading beyond the affected area, it might be due to an infection.

7. Wound bed getting warm

As a part of the body’s natural response, it is natural to feel some warmth in the affected area. But if it continues and the wound bed becomes hotter than usual, it might indicate that the body is preparing to fight infection.

8. Difficulty in movement

A doctor will usually advise keeping the injured area steady and avoiding frequent movement of that part. This helps the wound to heal faster. But if you notice major difficulties or discomfort in moving the wounded area, reach out to your doctor for help.

5 Best Wound Care Supplies for Quicker Healing

Here are the top-selling products from HPFY that may help you with wound management

1. 3M Tegaderm Transparent Film Dressing

FSA Eligible Items FSA Approved

Designed to give a complete view of the wound, this transparent dressing can be used to treat pressure ulcers and superficial partial-thickness wounds, to cover IV sites, and post-tattoo application and removal. It protects the wound from external disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.

Features of 3M Tegaderm Transparent Film Dressing

3M Tegaderm Transparent Film Dressing - Picture Frame Style

 

 

2. Molnlycke Mepilex Border Ag Antimicrobial Foam Dressing

FSA Eligible Items FSA Approved

Suitable for medium to high exuding wounds such as leg and foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, partial thickness burns, etc. It manages and absorbs exudate efficiently, even under compression.

Features of Molnlycke Mepilex Border Ag Antimicrobial Foam Dressing

Molnlycke Mepilex Border Ag Antimicrobial Foam Dressing

 

 

3. Medline Skintegrity Wound Cleanser

FSA Eligible Items FSA Approved

Formulated with a surfactant-based solution, the Skintegrity cleanser penetrates the wound bed and goes deep into the crevices and pockets for effective cleaning. The spray bottle design helps to deliver the solution in mist or stream form. 

Features of Medline Skintegrity Wound Cleanser

  • Does not hurt healthy cells.
  • Loosens and removes protein and debris.
  • Maintains a moist wound environment.
  • Latex-free 
Medline Skintegrity Wound Cleanser

 

 

4. Anacapa Anasept Antimicrobial Skin and Wound Cleanser

FSA Eligible Items FSA Approved

A clear, isotonic liquid that facilitates mechanical cleansing and removal of dirt and debris from the wound. It contains a broad-spectrum anti-microbial agent that protects against infection.

Features of Anacapa Anasept Antimicrobial Skin and Wound Cleanser

  • Inhibits bacterial growth.
  • Does not leave any toxic residue.
  • Suitable for skin tears, abrasion, laceration, minor irritation, and cuts.
Anacapa Anasept Antimicrobial Skin And Wound Cleanser

 

 

5. Covidien Kerlix Gauze Bandage Rolls

FSA Eligible Items FSA Approved

Suitable for bandaging head, limbs, and difficult-to-dress wounds, this bandage roll provides fast wicking action, excellent aeration, and exudate absorption. The finished edges reduce loose ends and lint.

Features of Covidien Kerlix Gauze Bandage Rolls

  • Protects wound site from infection.
  • Made of pre-washed, fluff-dried 100% woven gauze.
  • Usable as a primary and secondary dressing.
  • Available in 6-ply and 8-ply.
Covidien Kerlix Gauze Bandage Rolls

 

 

If your body does not respond positively to treatment and displays any signs mentioned above, this may be an indication that bacteria or other disease-causing organisms have entered the wound and an infection is present. If this happens, seek medical help immediately to stop the infection from growing. 

 

Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our reviewed content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.

 


HPFY Akanksha Nigam

Akanksha Nigam

LinkedIn Profile

 

Akanksha Nigam has been a Health Products For You contributor since 2021. With a Masters Degree in Finance, she began her Marketing career in the banking industry. However, her interest in human ...

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