How To Treat An Infected Cut

Consult A Doctor

While home treatment is generally safe and effective for the majority of cuts, patients do need to consult a doctor for treatment for certain types of cuts. For example, both human and animal bites (even seemingly minor ones) require medical attention, and deep puncture wounds also need professional care. Wounds with jagged edges need to be evaluated by a healthcare professional, and patients should also seek care if they cannot successfully remove dirt from their wound. If glass or other debris is present, the patient might need to have an x-ray, and a tetanus vaccine booster may be required for dirty wounds. To prevent scarring and other complications, medical professional should examine cuts on the face. Doctors advise seeking medical attention if a fever of more than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit develops after a cut, and the patient needs to inform a physician if the area around the cut feels numb. A wound with gaping edges typically requires stitches, and patients should let a doctor know if they experience any discharge of gray fluid. Instead of using home treatment, patients should consult a doctor immediately for any wound that continues to bleed after ten minutes of firm pressure is applied, and immediate care is necessary for any cut that bleeds in spurts and in cases where blood soaks through a bandage.