Wound care is any measure that aims to heal breaks in the skin and prevent complications, such as pain, infection, scarring, and necrosis (tissue death). Proper wound care is essential to protect your skin and avoid additional damage.
Understanding a wound’s severity is the first step in managing it. Some wounds, like minor scrapes and cuts, are manageable with home care and over-the-counter (OTC) remedies. Others require specialized medical treatment to facilitate proper healing and prevent potential complications.
Professional wound care is crucial if you have a skin injury that needs proper cleaning and infection prevention, such as:
Scrapes, scratches, and road rash affect the skin’s surface. While they don’t penetrate the underlying tissue, abrasions can be painful and are prone to scarring without appropriate treatment.
Lacerations cut through the skin and underlying tissue and fat. Sharp objects, like knives, glass, and tools, commonly cause these painful cuts. Unlike abrasions, lacerations tend to bleed profusely and can require stitches.
Puncture wounds occur when thin, sharp objects pierce the skin. Needles, nails, and other pointy objects can deeply penetrate the skin, leaving long, narrow wounds. They may not bleed much, but these wounds can damage your internal organs and bones without proper care.
Avulsions are traumatic injuries that cause the skin and underlying tissue to tear. They bleed excessively and can severely damage your skin. Explosions, gunshots, and other high-impact injuries are the most common causes of avulsions.
Practicing wound care at home can be effective for minor injuries and cuts that don’t require immediate medical attention. While every wound is different, a few general care tips to protect your skin and prevent infection include:
If your wound worsens or heals slowly, contact the experienced wound care specialists at Internal Medicine Partners for professional guidance and support.
Call Internal Medicine Partners today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about wound care.