Wounds are breaks in body tissues or structures of the organs. They can be caused by surgery, accidents, injuries, blunt trauma, radiation and extreme temperatures. If wounds are not properly cared for, they can become infected. Watch carefully for signs of infected wounds so systemic infection can be prevented with proper treatment.
Throbbing Pain
Pain and soreness can indicate that a wound is infected, particularly if the pain can be described as throbbing. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to treat this pain, but it is important to report the signs of a wound infection to a medical professional. Make note of the location and severity of the pain. Tell your doctor if the pain is severe enough to limit your movement or keep you from performing your normal activities. Your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain reliever to treat this pain while the wound infection is treated.
Pus and Discharge
Infected wounds may ooze with pus and other types of discharge. If pus drains from a wound, do not share a towel or washcloth with other people, as pus is contagious, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Avoid touching the wound or pus that has drained from the wound, as bacteria from the wound can get on the fingers. Wash your hands more frequently to avoid transferring these germs to mucous membranes or shared surfaces of your home, school or workplace. Seek medical attention for any wound that has pus or other discharge.
Foul Odor
Infected wounds may emit a foul odor. Dr. Daniel Mark Siegel, a dermatologist from Smithtown, New York, explains that the odor is usually the result of the presence of anaerobic organisms in the wound. Another factor that can contribute to foul odor is the presence of yeasts and intestinal bacteria. Wounds with a foul odor may benefit from the application of metronidazole, a topical medication that can dry out wounds and reduce odor. The wound infection should also be treated with an antibiotic to kill bacterial organisms and prevent the odor from recurring.
Redness and Heat
Redness and heat are signs of wound infection that occur as a result of inflammation. Even wounds that are not infected use inflammation as a means of healing the affected tissues. Inflammation helps to break down damaged cells so that they can be removed from the body. It also stimulates the production of new cells and small blood vessels. When a wound is infected, the redness and heat can signal that medical care is needed, preventing more serious infection from occurring.
General Signs
While many of the signs of infected wounds are localized to the area of the wound, some signs of infection can affect other areas of the body. Lymph nodes near an infected wound may become tender and swollen. This is because the lymph nodes are responsible for filtering and destroying infectious organisms. When infectious organisms enter these lymph nodes, the nodes may swell up or become tender to the touch. Chills and fever are general signs of infection that can also occur with a wound infection.
