Stitches are used to close and hold a wound together to help it heal. A sign that you may need stitches will be if you have a deep cut if the edges of the wound are jagged or torn, or if the injury is still bleeding after 10 minutes of pressure.
If you have any of these and the signs explained in this article, it is best to seek medical attention from a doctor or nurse and get your stitch. Read on.
Deep Cut
A cut less than ¼ inch in depth will generally mend on its own rather quickly. Deeper cuts, however, can take longer to heal as the skin can tear when attempting to move the affected area.
The platelets in the blood act like glue, helping to form a thickened patch over a wound, which seals it and allows it to heal. However, if the injury is disturbed during the healing process, it can take longer for the wound to close.
Joint Cut
Joints are areas of the body where two bones meet and are designed to allow the body to move freely. Because of this mobility, there is less insulation around the joint, meaning that heat and cold can more easily pass through.
This makes it more susceptible to temperature changes and more vulnerable to discomfort or injury. These areas of the body have less protection than other parts with thicker layers of skin, so a doctor should thoroughly look at cuts and wounds sustained in these places.
Nonstop Bleeding
Replacing the bandages already applied to the wound is not enough; additional layers of gauze should be added to promote healing. If the wound is still bleeding after applying pressure and changing the dressing, you may need medical attention.
Punctured Wound
If you are not sure what caused a wound or cut, it is vital to go to the doctor and get it checked out. This is especially true if the wound is punctured, as it may need to be stitched up. Stitches and a tetanus shot may be required to close up a wound and prevent infection. Depending on the severity of the injury, antibiotics or other treatments may be necessary to ensure the wound heals properly.
Puss
Puss is an indication that something is wrong. Your body works harder than it should, and there is an unwelcome presence inside. Avoid touching it yourself, and don’t attempt to grasp it with your hands or fingernails. Your hands and nails are the dirtiest parts of your body.
Go to a doctor for professional treatment of the wound. The doctor will clean the wound, close it with stitches, and cover it with a sterile bandage. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
Final Thoughts
If you are uncertain whether you need stitches, it is better to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention right away. It is usually less expensive to be treated for minor issues than to wait and have the condition worsen, potentially leading to more serious and costly treatments.
Do you need urgent care in Anniston, AL? Turn to Southern Immediate Care, a walk-in urgent care clinic. We offer services for urgent needs, such as x-rays or stitches, but we can also care for patients on their lunch break with a common cold or infection. Contact us.
