Why Do Wounds Fester?

The word "fester" is taken from the Latin word "fistula," which refers to an open sore or infection that produces pus. Any wound, if not treated properly, can become infected and begin to fester, producing pus within the wound.

Proper Treatment

• Any break in the skin—whether due to injury or even surgery—must be properly cleaned, treated with antibiotics and covered to keep out dirt and bacteria. If not, the wound will become infected, developing pus and festering, according to the Medline Plus website.

Symptoms

• Swelling and redness in a wound indicate infection, which can lead to wound festering, according to the Medline Plus website. A whitish or yellowish discharge or "weeping" within the wound area, known as pus, indicates that the wound has begun to fester.

Causes

• When a wound festers and develops pus, this is actually a sign that body's immune system is trying to fight off an infection in the wound, according to Dr. Guy F. Webster, Ph.D., director of the Center for Cutaneous Pharmacology at Thomas Jefferson University. It is also a good indication that you need to see a doctor.

Bacterial Infections

• Another reason why wounds fester is from fighting off bacteria known as Staphlococcus aureas, or "staph," which can enter and infect your system through an improperly treated wound, according to the Lab Tests Online website. Wound festering and pus are signs that your body may be fighting off staph bacteria.

Action

• See your doctor immediately if you notice your wound is festering, especially if it is still discharging pus after a day or two, or the discharge gets worse. This can signify a serious infection.