How long scratch take to heal

A scratch may be caused by an encounter with an abrasive surface, such as sandpaper, unfinished wood, or concrete. A cut or scratch can usually be diagnosed through visual inspection. Some small cuts, like paper cuts, require sharp eyes or magnifying glasses to see. There are several ways to treat cuts and scratches, depending on their severity. If the skin is kept clean, many cuts and scratches heal on their own. To accelerate that healing process, patients can choose from the following methods:.

Over-the-counter and prescription medications are available for wound care: antibiotic ointment can prevent infection of a cut or scratch; pain relievers may reduce irritation and control inflammation around the wound; and some topical creams may be prescribed to prevent swelling. If a cut results in a large, open wound, it may require stitches in order to heal. If the cut becomes infected beyond repair, the area of infection may have to be removed.

Applying pressure to the cut or scratch can stop the bleeding. Covering the wound with a bandage will keep it clean and allow for direct application of antibiotic ointment. The bandage will also absorb any blood that remains as the wound heals. Before the bandage is applied, the wound should be cleaned with water, ethyl alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide.

Most cuts and scratches go away over time, but some lead to scars and infections. If a wound becomes infected, it must be treated in order to avoid serious damage. A severely infected wound may require amputation. In rare cases, an infected wound can be fatal. To prevent cuts and scratches, avoid dangerous activities and interactions with sharp or coarse surfaces. Wear clothing to protect your arms, legs, and core, and be aware of your environment. If you do get a cut or scratch, clean and treat it immediately to prevent infection.

Cuts and scratches are a part of everyday life, especially for children. Usually, minor cuts heal on their own as long as you clean them well and treat them immediately. Some people with diabetes and other chronic conditions can get a skin ulcer from a small cut or wound on their feet or legs. Wound healing happens in several stages. Your wound may look red, swollen, and watery at the beginning.

This can be a normal part of healing. The wound may have a red or pink raised scar once it closes. The healing will continue for months to years after this. The scar will eventually become duller and flatter. Some health conditions can slow down or impair wound healing.

Some people may get infections or have other healing complications. With diabetes, wounds tend to heal more slowly and progress more quickly. In some cases, this can lead to severe complications. Here's what to know. An open wound is an injury involving an external or internal break in your body tissue, usually involving the skin. Nearly everyone will experience an…. Well, this one piece of folklore is actually true…. Debridement is a procedure that helps wounds heal by removing dead or infected tissue.

There are several types of debridement, from using ointments…. Wound dehiscence occurs when a surgical incision reopens. Discover risk factors, tips to ensure proper healing, serious complications, and more.

You can try to treat an infected wound with a few home remedies, but there comes a time when medical attention is needed. Paper cuts are common on parts of the body with a lot of nerve endings. This can make them quite painful, even if they're small. Learn why they hurt…. Rubbing or isopropyl alcohol is a common and surprisingly versatile household item. From cleaning your blinds to getting out pesky permanent marker…. VAC treatment uses pressure to help close wounds and increase healing.

Here's how it works and when it's beneficial for wound healing. Liquid stitches are a popular alternative to sutures and bandages for closing and protecting wounds. They can be applied quickly and easily with…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Stages of wound healing Healing time Poor wound healing Signs of infection When to see a doctor Takeaway A wound is a cut or opening in the skin.

Stages of wound healing. How long does it take for a wound to heal? Poor wound healing. Signs of infection. When to see a doctor. Cover the wound with a clean bandage or cloth. If the blood soaks through, don't remove the first bandage — put a new covering on top of it.

Hold the injured body part up above your head or as high as you can to help slow the bleeding. If a wound is very long or deep or if its edges are far apart , a doctor will need to bring the edges close together so they can heal. The doctor might do this with stitches. If you get stitches, you'll probably need to go back to the doctor in 5 to 10 days to get them out. To remove stitches, a doctor or nurse will snip the thread with scissors and gently pull out the threads.

It tickles a bit and feels a little funny, but usually doesn't hurt. Doctors sometimes close small, straight cuts on some parts of the body with medical glue or steri-strips thin pieces of medical tape. Glue and steri-strips will dissolve or fall off on their own. Getting a cut usually means that there might be a scar on the skin after it heals. If your cut needs to be stitched or glued but you don't see a doctor in time, your scar may be more noticeable.

Cuts from a bite need to see the doctor. Germs from an animal or human mouth can get into the cut and you will usually need antibiotics to prevent infection. Your doctor or nurse will also ask questions to make sure the animal didn't have rabies. Cuts from something dirty or rusty, like a nail could lead to a tetanus infection if your tetanus shots are not up to date.