How Do You Tell Whether A Cut Is Infected?
Cuts on the skin can range from minor scrapes to deep gouges that require stitches and surgery. The epidermis is an amazing organ, because it protects the body from infection. Once it is punctured, however, the risk of infection increases greatly. There are some easy ways to determine whether your cut is infected, or if it might become infected. Following a few tips can also avoid having it become so. Determine how serious the original cut is. How deep the cut is usually determines how serious it is. This does not mean that a shallow cut cannot become infected or won’t be a serious hazard; sometimes the smallest of cuts can be overlooked as threats when they really are. A deep cut, however, can become infected more easily. In either case, disinfect the cut with soap and water or iodine as soon as you are able. Cover the cut once it is disinfected with a sterile bandage. If the cut is small, use an adhesive bandage. If it is large, use gauze and medical tape. Then watch it closely over