How to Tell If You Have an Infection in an Abrasion Wound

Skin protects the inside of our bodies from infection. When an abrasion occurs, the skin is no longer present to protect that area of the body, and bacteria can enter quickly, causing infection. Infection delays the healing process and could even spread to the rest of your body. It is important to know all the symptoms of an infected abrasion in order to identify and remedy the situation quickly.

Instructions

1. Monitor any redness around the abrasion, because this is the first sign of infection. Some redness is common when the abrasion first occurs, but the redness should decrease. If it increases or if you see red streaks from around the edges of the cut, this is a sign that infection is beginning to set in.

2. Notice pus or any other drainage oozing from the abrasion, especially if the drainage is foul-smelling. This is an indication that your white blood cells are fighting an infection and losing the battle.

3. Observe any swelling or hardening of the abrasion area. As the infection progresses, tissue will build up and harden underneath the cut. You might notice that the abrasion is hot to the touch as well.

4. Watch for an increase of pain. Like the redness, pain should gradually subside as the abrasion heals. Increasing pain is also an indicator of infection.

5. Check your temperature. A fever signifies that your body is trying to fight something and that the infection might have spread to other parts of your body.

Tips & Warnings

• If you think you have an infection from an abrasion, see your doctor or clinic.

References

• Revolution Health