When to seek medical attention
It’s never a bad idea to seek medical care following an accident that results in a cut, laceration, or abrasion. Even if the wound appears to be relatively insignificant, the risk of infection is still present. It is particularly important to visit a medical professional if your wound is accompanied by:
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness
- Red streaks around the injury
- Pus or another type of discharge
- A fever higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit
- Numbness or tingling sensations
In the event that someone around you has a wound with uncontrolled bleeding or has lost consciousness, call 911 immediately.
If left untreated
Cuts, lacerations, and abrasions that are not properly cleaned, bandaged, or stitched could potentially become infected and trigger more serious complications. If you or a loved one needs prompt treatment for a wound outside of an emergency medical condition, DispatchHealth is here to be of assistance. Contact us today to request care – we treat patients of all ages, accept all major health insurances, and offer competitive rates.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Phil Mitchell MD, MS on July 24th, 2019
Read More:
Treating Cuts and Lacerations in Seniors