Signs to Look for in an Infected Scar
Even with the best care and hygiene, wounds and scars can become infected. With drug-resistant staph infections reaching epidemic proportions in some parts of the United States as of October 2007, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, remaining vigilant is necessary.
Discharge
Once the bandaging is removed, a small amount of discharge is to be expected. The discharge should last no longer than a day. A large amount of discharge or any unpleasant odor is not normal. Yellow, white or bloody discharge are signs of infection 1.
- Once the bandaging is removed, a small amount of discharge is to be expected.
- Yellow, white or bloody discharge are signs of infection 1.
Skin Changes
Lotion to Remove Scars
Learn More
Crust forming, unusual bruising, scaling and peeling skin around the scar are not normal. Redness is a normal part of the healing process of a scar. If infection is setting in, the red area will spread to the surrounding skin 1. The red area may surround the entire wound or spread out in streaks resembling scratches. This is a sign that the scar is infected and spreading and requires treatment. Another symptom is if the scar becomes inflamed, raised and hot to the touch. Test the scar by touching it lightly and compare the temperature of the skin to your skin farther from the scar. When the scar is warmer than the other area of your skin, it is a sign that the scar is infected.
- Crust forming, unusual bruising, scaling and peeling skin around the scar are not normal.
- The red area may surround the entire wound or spread out in streaks resembling scratches.
General Malaise
Aching or flu-like symptoms are another sign that your scar is infected, especially if you are exhibiting any of the above-mentioned symptoms. Unexplained fever, pain and general fatigue may mean infection is present and has entered your bloodstream 1. This is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Pain
Is it Bad When Scars Peel?
Learn More
Pain and some itching is to be expected with a wound. When the pain or itching becomes worse instead of better, your scar is not healing properly. Check with your health care provider for how long you should expect either to last. If the pain lasts longer than normal, contact your health care provider. If an old scar suddenly exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
- Pain and some itching is to be expected with a wound.
- If an old scar suddenly exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Related Articles
References
- Drugs.com: Wound Infection
- Shin TM, Bordeaux JS. The role of massage in scar management: a literature review. Dermatol Surg. 2012;38(3):414-23. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02201.x
- Ault P, Plaza A, Paratz J. Scar massage for hypertrophic burns scarring-A systematic review. Burns. 2018;44(1):24-38. doi:10.1016/j.burns.2017.05.006
- Cheatham SW, Lee M, Cain M, Baker R. The efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2016;60(3):200-211.
- Kohata K, Itoh S, Horiuchi N, Yoshioka T, Yamashita K. Influences of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis on the electrical properties of human bones as in vivo electrets produced due to Wolff's law. Biomed Mater Eng. 2017;28(1):65-74. doi:10.3233/BME-171657
- Cheatham, S. Et al. The Efficacy of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization: A Systematic Review. J Can. Chiro, Assoc. 2016 Sep; 60(3): 200-11.
- Kim J, Sung DJ, Lee J. Therapeutic effectiveness of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for soft tissue injury: mechanisms and practical application.Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation. 2017;13(1):12-22. doi:10.12965/jer.1732824.412.
- Kisner, C., & Colby, L. A. Therapeutic exercise: Foundations and techniques. (3 ed.). Philadelphia: FA Davis.
- Shin TM, Bordeaux JS. The Role of Massage in Scar Management: A Literature Review.Dermatologic Surgery. 2012;38(3):414-423. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02201.x.
Writer Bio
Christina Floyd has been a full-time writer since 2009. She has had articles published in "The Bavarian News" and "The Schweinfurt Dispatch." Floyd's expertise includes the medical field, creative writing and the military lifestyle. She has been a student in alternative and herbal therapies since 2010.