Wounds that are mild or serious are common occurrences and often happen every year. Treatment for a general wound, such as a scrape, cut, or abrasion, can be easily self-cared for, while a chronic wound will require medical attention. If you have had a wound that is not healing for a while, that could be a sign that you need wound care treatment. Axelix Health Consulting, Inc. (AHCI), an infectious disease management service with three offices in Mentor, Ashtabula, and Geneva, OH, has the expertise to provide instructions for wound care.
Signs That Your Wound Needs Medical Attention
Although the body can heal itself naturally, proper wound care is always necessary to facilitate the healing process and avoid serious infection. However, in determining the most appropriate treatment, we must first observe the severity of the wound. Consider immediate medical attention for the following injuries, including symptoms that accompany them. An AHCI doctor can determine the best wound care, such as stitches, antibiotics, surgery, or other treatments upon examination. Age and health condition will also be factors in determining the most appropriate care.
- Bites
- Deep lacerations or cuts over a ½ inch long in which muscle, fat, or bone is visible.
- Constant bleeding
- Redness after two days
- Yellow pus oozing from the injury
- Increased pain
- Fever
General Wound Care
Wound care for common scrapes, scratches, and other mild skin breakages can be easily done at home. It is always smart to keep a fully stocked first aid kit available to treat a non-serious wound. The following guidelines are recommended by Mentor, Ashtabula, and Geneva, OH doctors for proper wound care:
- Wash the wound and your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water
- Cover with a sterile gauze pad or bandage
- If using an antibiotic ointment, check that it is free of toxins and contains natural ingredients.
- Keep the wound clean by periodically changing the dressing.
- The wound will heal faster if kept warm and moist, not dry, and exposed to the air.
- A Tetanus vaccine may be necessary if a dirty or rusty object cuts you.
- Eat foods rich in Vitamins C, A, copper, and zinc. They help make collagen to heal wounds quicker.
- Engage in regular exercise, which increases blood flow to speed wound healing.
- After the wound has healed, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to help scars fade faster.
If you have a chronic or deep wound that is not responding to any self-care guidelines, call AHCI at 440-867-4800 and choose one of our convenient offices in Mentor, Ashtabula, and Geneva, OH, for your wound care treatment.