How to Heal an Infection in a Closed Wound
A closed wound infection ranges from a cut that healed too quickly, leaving infection under the surface of the skin, to the most commonly infected internal wounds that happen after surgery, especially closed incisions. The internal bleeding of a closed wound may clot creating a hematoma, which may initiate an infection. Some closed wound infections can be treated at home while others must be cared for by a specialist if they are caused by severe accidents or surgery. The proper treatment of a closed wound can prevent swelling and further complications.
Wash scab where wound has closed over an infection with soap and water. Once scab is soft, lift off from skin entirely.
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Place newly-opened wound under running water and press gently to drain any excess liquid or pus.
Soak a cotton ball with alcohol and apply directly onto wound to disinfect completely. This may sting temporarily.
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Place bandage on wound to keep bacteria away from skin and allow the wound to re-close free of infection.
Change bandage daily, applying Neosporin to scab upon each change to prevent any new infections.
Complement the healing process by taking half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper in a glass of water daily to increase blood flow in body 1. Some people think this will help the blood carry needed nutrients to damaged cells and remove their waste material.
Seek the help of a wound specialist if closed wound infection occurred after surgery or an accident. Specialist may need to use professional drainage systems to reach infected tissue and prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication to aid in the healing process 1.
Tips
Take the daily dosage of cayenne pepper powder even when treating a serious closed wound infection unless advised otherwise by specialist.
Warnings
Do not attempt to follow this method of healing if wound is larger than four inches. Large or deep closed wound infections should always be treated by a doctor.
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References
- Healing Daily
- Mccaughan D, Sheard L, Cullum N, Dumville J, Chetter I. Patients' perceptions and experiences of living with a surgical wound healing by secondary intention: A qualitative study. Int J Nurs Stud. 2018;77:29-38. doi:10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2017.09.015
- Krafts KP. Tissue repair: The hidden drama. Organogenesis. 2010;6(4):225-33. doi:10.4161/org.6.4.12555
- Chetter IC, Oswald AV, Fletcher M, Dumville JC, Cullum NA. A survey of patients with surgical wounds healing by secondary intention; an assessment of prevalence, aetiology, duration and management. J Tissue Viability. 2017;26(2):103-107. doi:10.1016/j.jtv.2016.12.004
- Singh PK, Saxena N, Poddar D, et al. Comparative Study Of Wound Healing In Primary Versus Delayed Primary Closure In Contaminated Abdominal Surgery. Hellenic J Surg. 2016;88:314–320. doi:10.1007/s13126-016-0340-8
- Surgical Patient Education Program: Prepare for the Best Recovery. American College of Surgeons. 2018.
- Rushbrook JL, White G, Kidger L, Marsh P, Taggart TF. The antibacterial effect of 2-octyl cyanoacrylate (Dermabond®) skin adhesive. J Infect Prev. 2014;15(6):236-239. doi:10.1177/1757177414551562
- Lazar HL, Mccann J, Fitzgerald CA, Cabral HJ. Adhesive strips versus subcuticular suture for mediansternotomy wound closure. J Card Surg. 2011;26(4):344-7. doi:10.1111/j.1540-8191.2011.01257.x
- 3M Wound Resource Center. http://solutions.3m.co.uk/wps/portal/3M/en_GB/skin-care/wound-resource-centre/
Tips
- Take the daily dosage of cayenne pepper powder even when treating a serious closed wound infection unless advised otherwise by specialist.
Warnings
- Do not attempt to follow this method of healing if wound is larger than four inches. Large or deep closed wound infections should always be treated by a doctor.
Writer Bio
Ana Cassis began writing professionally in 1995. She has been published in the magazines "Cancunissimo," "Mesa Visions" and in online heath publications. Cassis is a nutrition counselor and herbalist with experience in fitness, nutrition and yoga. She holds an Associate of Arts in architecture from San Diego Mesa College.