How to Tell if a Wound is Infected
We get wounds all the time. Most of the time they don’t get infected, but sometimes they do. Here at Easy Orthopedics in Colorado Springs we frequently see those with concerns of an infection.
An infected wound may show one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
1. Redness and Swelling
- The area around the wound becomes red, inflamed, or swollen.
- Red streaks spreading away from the wound could indicate a serious infection.
2. Warmth
- The skin around the wound feels noticeably warmer to the touch compared to the surrounding areas.
3. Pain or Tenderness
- The wound area may be unusually painful or tender, even if it is a minor cut or scrape.
4. Discharge
- Pus or cloudy, thick fluid draining from the wound.
- The presence of yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge is particularly concerning.
5. Delayed Healing
- The wound fails to heal or worsens over time.
6. Fever
- A fever or chills may indicate the infection is spreading.
7. Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Tender or swollen lymph nodes, especially near the site of the wound (e.g., under the armpits or in the groin area), may suggest a systemic infection.
Will a wound infection clear on its own?
Some mild wound infections may resolve on their own with proper care, such as keeping the wound clean, applying an antiseptic, and allowing it to heal. However, more significant infections or those involving certain bacteria (like Staphylococcus or Streptococcus) may not clear without medical intervention.
When a Wound Infection May Not Clear on Its Own:
- Deep infections: If the infection has penetrated the skin layers or reached deeper tissues.
- Persistent symptoms: Redness, swelling, and pain that worsen over several days.
- Systemic signs: Fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes indicate the infection may be spreading.
- Pus or abscess: Accumulation of pus often requires drainage.
- Compromised immunity: People with diabetes, chronic illnesses, or weakened immune systems are at higher risk for complications.
Risks of Ignoring an Infection:
If untreated, an infection could lead to severe complications, such as:
- Cellulitis: A deeper skin infection.
- Sepsis: A life-threatening systemic infection.
- Necrosis: Tissue death, requiring surgical intervention.
What draws infection out of a wound?
Drawing infection out of a wound involves methods that reduce bacteria, promote drainage, and support healing. Here’s how to do it safely:
1. Clean the Wound
- Gently wash the area with warm water and mild soap.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove debris or bacteria.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or iodine for daily cleaning, as they can damage healthy tissue.
2. Apply a Warm Compress
- Soak a clean cloth in warm water (not hot) and hold it on the wound for 15–20 minutes, several times a day.
- Warmth increases blood flow and encourages pus or infection to drain.
3. Use an Antiseptic or Antimicrobial
- Apply an over-the-counter antiseptic or antibiotic ointment (e.g., Neosporin, polysporin).
4. Encourage Drainage
- If pus is visible, it may drain naturally with the use of warm compresses.
- Do not attempt to squeeze or pop the wound; this can push bacteria deeper or spread the infection.
5. Keep the Wound Covered
- Use a clean bandage or dressing to protect the wound and absorb drainage.
- Change the dressing daily or whenever it becomes dirty or wet.
6. Elevate the Area
- If the wound is on a limb, elevate it to reduce swelling and improve circulation, which helps the body fight infection.
Medical Interventions to Remove Infection
If home care doesn’t resolve the infection, a healthcare provider may:
- Drain the wound: Open abscesses or remove pus manually.
- Debride: Remove dead or infected tissue to promote healing.
- Prescribe antibiotics: For more severe or systemic infections.
What does sepsis look like?
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection becomes extreme, leading to widespread inflammation, tissue damage, and organ failure. It requires immediate medical attention.
Early Signs of Sepsis
- General Symptoms:
- Fever, often with chills or shivering.
- Feeling very cold or clammy skin.
- Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing.
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia).
- Extreme fatigue or weakness.
- Wound-Related Symptoms (if linked to an infected wound):
- Increased redness, swelling, or pus around the wound.
- Worsening pain.
- Red streaks spreading from the wound (signs of cellulitis or lymphangitis).
Signs of Severe Sepsis or Septic Shock
- Worsening Vital Signs:
- Very low blood pressure (hypotension).
- Rapid or shallow breathing.
- Fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Organ Dysfunction:
- Confusion, disorientation, or altered mental status.
- Decreased urine output or difficulty urinating.
- Mottled or discolored skin, particularly on fingers or toes.
- Severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
- Progression to Septic Shock:
- Persistent low blood pressure despite fluid replacement.
- Signs of multiple organ failure (e.g., kidney failure, respiratory failure
I hope we were able to answer some of your questions about how to tell if a wound is infected. If you would like us to evaluate you, and are in the Colorado area, contact us below to make an appointment at Easy Orthopedics.