Linwood, MI
A 54-year-old female asked:
When is it appropriate to see a dr. for an infected wound? a small scrape is now swollen and painful. 2 days later.
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Liesa Harteanswered
Family Medicine 31 years experience
Wound infection?: If you are worried, then I recommend you see your doctor. It is possible for serious infections to start with small wounds. Better safe than sorry. Follow your instincts here and see you your doctor.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. J. Lawrence Dohananswered
Dermatology 59 years experience
Depends: A small scrape may be swollen + painful without infection. Pus or blood? Red streak? Progressively worse? Location? Cause and circumstance of injury? WATER is good for it. Lubrication with vaseline or Aquaphor is good. Avoid antiseptics such as peroxide or alcohol. Avoid antibiotics such as bacitracin or neosporin as these are useless + often harmful. See DR if getting worse.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Aug 1, 2016
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