Why do open wounds throb

Scientific studies have shown, that in most cases wound healing will proceed better and without complications if the wound is protected with a plaster until they have healed completely. This is a myth that seems to originate from pirate and adventure novels. Even if many of us would love to believe this romantic theory: we are afraid to have to tell you that it is complete nonsense. What many people do not consider is that sea water may be severely contaminated, especially near those coast stretches - with a variety of highly unsavoury germs or chemicals "swimming" in it.

Both of which would contribute significantly to the risk of an infection and can delay wound healing. In addition, contact with water will swell the skin, which may affect the process of wound closure. In this case, bacteria and germs may easily enter the wound and the risk of wound infection would be increased dramatically. We all know the feeling: some time after an injury, the affected area will begin to tingle and itch.

This goes especially for superficial wounds. And yes — in fact, this itching may indicate that the healing process is well on its way.

But do watch out! Should your wound be very red, suppurate, or the itching turn into a throbbing sensation, you should definitely consult a doctor because these could be signs of an infection that should be treated medically as soon as possible.

Playing down a small wound? Unfortunately, many of us make that mistake. Though it should be clear to anybody that even the smallest pinprick offers a huge entry hole into our body for bacteria. Therefore: Always treat any wound with appropriate wound care , no matter how small it may be. This is proof that healing has occurred.

The initial scab will fall away, and you will be left with a scar, that will be with you for many years — if your injury was severe — or just slowly fade away. We work to assess each patient and then recommend the right treatment plan for healing open wounds. Each of our seven clinic locations has state of the art equipment, skilled wound care specialists, and a comfortable atmosphere. For further questions or to make an appointment for evaluation, find the R3 Wound Care and Hyperbarics clinic nearest to you.

To find out if Wound Care is right for you, schedule an evaluation with one of our top medical professionals. What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy? Signs of Infection If you suspect your wound is infected, here are some symptoms to monitor: Warmth Often, right at the beginning of the healing process, your wound feels warm. Discharge After the initial discharge of a bit of pus and blood, your wound should be clear.

Pain Pain is obviously normal after being injured. Fever Once an infection has taken place, it will enter your bloodstream and spread through your body, causing fever and general discomfort.

Signs of an infected wound: As wounds are healing, there are often some distinct changes that occur to the skin both around and near the wound. Here are a few things that you can expect — and the things to watch out for: Fluid Normal: This is one of the ways our bodies naturally heal themselves. Drainage can either be clear or slightly yellow in color.

Redness Normal: A small amount of redness and inflammation around the tissue that has been altered. Raised Skin Normal: Most surgical procedures produce some type of scar, which is completely normal. Other common signs include: An unpleasant odor coming from the wound Generalized chills or a fever Excessive swelling or increasing redness around the wound Increasing tenderness or throbbing of the wound Swelling lymph nodes in your neck, groin, or armpit Red streaks within the skin progressing away from the wound Pus or drainage Warmth near or on the wound Treatment of Infected wounds: Treatment will depend on how severe the wound is, its location, and whether other areas are affected.

Wound cleaning may be done with soap and water to wash away germs and decrease the risk for infection. Your doctor may cut open a part of the affected area to clean it better. The wound may be rinsed with sterile water. Germ-killing solutions may also be used.

Objects, dirt, or dead tissue from the wound will be removed with debridement surgical cleaning. Editorial team. Cuts and puncture wounds. Symptoms include: Bleeding Problems with function movement or feeling numbness, tingling below the wound site Pain Infection may occur with some cuts and puncture wounds. The following are more likely to become infected: Bites Punctures Crush injuries Dirty wounds Wounds on the feet Wounds that are not promptly treated.

If the wound is bleeding severely, call your local emergency number, such as Then, wash the cut thoroughly with mild soap and water.

Use direct pressure to stop the bleeding. Apply antibacterial ointment and a clean bandage that will not stick to the wound.

Rinse the puncture for 5 minutes under running water. Then wash with soap. Look but do not poke around for objects inside the wound. If found, don't remove them. Go to your emergency or urgent care center. If you can't see anything inside the wound, but a piece of the object that caused the injury is missing, also seek medical attention. DO NOT assume that a minor wound is clean because you can't see dirt or debris inside.