How to Recognize the Symptoms of Infection in Wounds

Wounds, when dealt with by a professional, are often easy to take care of and heal well. However, there are times when even the simplest wounds carry the risk of infection. Whether they were not properly cleaned at the time of dressing or whether they simply haven't healed properly and have been exposed to contagions, it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of infection in wounds.

Things You'll Need

• Thermometer
• Medical advice
• First aid kit

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Examine wounds visually first, looking for anything out of the ordinary. You can often spot the symptoms of an infection by sight alone. Be sure exercise care when removing or changing dressings as you inspect for infections.

• 2

  Check for increased swelling. Swelling is often a sign of infection, particularly when accompanied by a reddening of the skin or the presence of a reopened wound.

• 3

  Look for signs of pus or other infectious materials. Such fluids are often a result of your immune system fighting back infection and expelling it. It is important to note that not removing pus or drainage fluids can lead to a further spreading of the infection.

• 4

  Recognize tenderness of the wound as a possible sign of infection. Tenderness is sometimes a result of healing, but marked tenderness as well as a burning sensation is most often the result of infection.

• 5

  Monitor additional symptoms of illness like fever, coughing, headache and nausea. These are potentially indicative of the presence of an infection in the wound. Especially if the patient has a fever above 100 degrees F, you should seek medical attention immediately.