When stitches may get infected

When stitches may get infected

Introduction

This section provides important first aid and prevention information about when stitches may get infected. It is designed for the general public in Canada and focuses on safe, practical advice you can use at home. This is not a full medical training manual, but a guide to help you recognize signs of infection and know when to seek professional care.

Stitches, also called sutures, help wounds heal by holding the skin together. While stitches are common and usually safe, infections can sometimes develop. Knowing what to watch for and how to care for stitches can reduce risks and promote healing.

Medically reviewed by SASI Medical Review Board.

What you can do safely at home

• Keep the stitched area clean and dry as instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Follow any wound care advice given, such as gentle washing with soap and water.
• Watch for early signs of infection like redness, swelling, warmth, or unusual pain.

What to avoid

• Do not pick at or scratch the stitches.
• Avoid soaking the wound in water (such as baths or swimming) unless your provider says it is safe.
• Do not apply creams, ointments, or antiseptics unless recommended by a healthcare professional.

When to seek urgent care

• If you notice spreading redness, increasing pain, pus, or foul smell from the wound.
• If you develop a fever or feel generally unwell.
• If the wound reopens or bleeding does not stop.
• For any life-threatening symptoms or rapidly worsening condition, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

Key facts about when stitches may get infected

• When stitches may get infected, signs include increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pain around the wound.
• Clear, gentle cleaning of the stitched area with mild soap and water is safe at home to help prevent infection.
• Avoid soaking the wound in water, using harsh chemicals, or applying unapproved ointments without medical advice.
• Keep the stitched area covered with a clean, dry bandage as recommended by your healthcare provider.
• If you notice pus, a foul smell, fever, or red streaks spreading from the wound, seek urgent medical care immediately.
• Do not attempt to remove stitches yourself; follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for stitch removal.
• Call 911 or go to the emergency department if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, difficulty moving the affected area, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Recognizing symptoms and danger signs

Knowing when stitches may get infected helps you act quickly and safely. Mild symptoms often include slight redness, tenderness, or swelling around the wound. These signs can be managed at home with gentle cleaning and keeping the area dry.

Moderate symptoms may involve increased redness spreading beyond the wound, warmth, more pain, or mild pus drainage. If you notice these, avoid applying creams or ointments without advice. Instead, monitor the wound closely and consider contacting your healthcare provider for guidance. See also: [wound care basics]

Severe symptoms and danger signs require urgent attention. Call 911 or go to the emergency department immediately if you experience:

• Rapidly spreading redness or swelling
• Severe pain that worsens quickly
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) or chills
• Thick, foul-smelling pus or bleeding that won’t stop
• Red streaks extending from the wound
• Difficulty moving the affected area or numbness

Always prioritize safety. If you are unsure about the severity of symptoms, seek urgent care or call your local emergency number. Early recognition and prompt action can prevent complications and promote healing.

Immediate first aid steps

If you have a cut or wound, acting quickly can help prevent infection and other complications. When stitches may get infected, it is important to follow safe first aid steps at home while waiting for professional care.

What you can do right away

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the wound.
• Gently rinse the wound with clean, running water to remove dirt and debris.
• Apply a clean, sterile dressing or bandage to protect the area from germs.
• Keep the injured area elevated if possible to reduce swelling.
• Avoid putting any creams, ointments, or antiseptics on the wound unless advised by a healthcare professional.

What to avoid

• Do not try to remove deeply embedded objects or debris yourself.
• Avoid closing the wound with tape or glue at home.
• Do not delay seeking medical care if the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, or shows signs of infection.

When to seek urgent care or call 911

Call 911 or go to the emergency department immediately if you notice any of the following:

• Heavy bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure for 10 minutes.
• Signs of infection such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or a fever.
• Severe pain, numbness, or loss of movement near the wound.
• A wound caused by a bite, deep puncture, or dirty/rusty object.

Prompt action can reduce the risk of complications when stitches may get infected. Always prioritise safety and seek professional care when needed.

What NOT to do when stitches may get infected

Certain actions can make the situation worse. Avoid these common mistakes to protect your health and promote healing.

Do NOT ignore signs of infection

• Do not delay seeking medical help if you notice increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around the stitches.
• Do not wait if you develop a fever or severe pain near the wound.
• Call 911 or go to the emergency department immediately if you experience spreading redness, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding.

Do NOT attempt unsafe treatments at home

• Avoid applying creams, ointments, or home remedies not recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Do not soak the stitched area in water, such as in a bath or swimming pool, until your healthcare provider says it is safe.
• Never try to remove stitches yourself; this can cause injury or infection.

Do NOT neglect wound care instructions

• Do not skip cleaning the wound gently as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid covering the wound with dirty or non-breathable dressings.
• Do not pick at scabs or stitches, as this can delay healing and increase infection risk.

When to call 911 or seek urgent care

Knowing when to call 911 or seek urgent care can prevent complications and ensure proper treatment. If you notice signs that when stitches may get infected could be a concern, act promptly.

Call 911 immediately if you experience:

• Heavy bleeding that does not stop after applying firm pressure for 10 minutes
• Signs of shock, such as pale, clammy skin, weakness, or confusion
• Severe pain that worsens quickly
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Loss of consciousness or seizures
• Deep wounds with exposed bone or muscle

Go to the emergency department if you notice:

• Redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around stitches indicating possible infection
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) after getting stitches
• Wound edges pulling apart or stitches coming loose
• Increasing pain or tenderness at the wound site
• Signs of poor circulation, such as numbness or a bluish colour near the injury

Visit a walk-in clinic or family doctor when:

• The wound is healing well but you need a stitch removal or follow-up
• You have minor concerns about the wound but no urgent symptoms
• You need advice on wound care or infection prevention

Always avoid trying to remove stitches yourself or applying any creams or ointments without medical advice. When in doubt, it is safer to seek professional care promptly. See also: [stitch removal guidelines]

Ongoing care and follow-up

After the initial treatment of a wound, it is important to monitor the area closely to ensure proper healing. Keeping the wound clean and dry helps prevent infection. Change dressings as instructed, usually once a day or when they become wet or dirty.

When stitches may get infected, watch for signs such as increased redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, pus or unusual discharge, and worsening pain. A mild fever can also indicate infection. If you notice any of these symptoms, avoid applying creams or ointments unless advised by a healthcare provider.

Safe self-care at home

• Wash your hands before touching the wound or changing dressings.
• Keep the wound covered with a clean, dry bandage.
• Avoid soaking the wound in water, such as baths or swimming, until it is fully healed.
• Follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.

When to seek medical advice

• Book a follow-up appointment with your doctor if the wound does not show signs of healing within a few days.
• Contact urgent care if you see spreading redness, increasing pain, or discharge that smells bad.
• Call 911 immediately if you experience severe swelling, difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or if the wound opens suddenly.

Regularly checking your wound and following these guidelines will help you recover safely and avoid complications.

Prevention tips

Preventing infection when stitches may get infected starts with good habits at home, work, school, and in the community. Simple steps can reduce the risk and promote healing.

Safe practices at home

• Keep the stitched area clean and dry. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on how to clean the wound gently with mild soap and water.
• Avoid touching or scratching the stitches to prevent introducing bacteria.
• Change dressings as directed, using clean materials and washing your hands before and after.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritation around the stitches.

What to avoid

• Do not soak the stitched area in water, such as in baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools, until your provider says it is safe.
• Avoid applying creams, ointments, or powders unless prescribed or approved by your healthcare provider.
• Do not remove stitches yourself; wait for professional removal or guidance.
• Refrain from activities that may cause the wound to reopen or become dirty.

When to seek urgent care

Watch for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, pus, or a fever. If you notice any of these, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

If you experience rapidly worsening symptoms, spreading redness, severe pain, or fever over 38°C (100.4°F), call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

FAQs

When stitches may get infected

Stitches can get infected if bacteria enter the wound. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or pus around the stitches. If you notice these symptoms, keep the area clean and dry. Avoid touching or scratching the stitches.

Do not try to remove stitches yourself or apply any creams or ointments unless advised by a healthcare professional. If infection signs worsen or you develop a fever, call your healthcare provider promptly. For severe symptoms like spreading redness, intense pain, or fever over 38°C (100.4°F), seek urgent care or call 911.

How to care for minor cuts at home

Clean the cut gently with water and mild soap. Apply a clean dressing or bandage to protect it. Change the dressing daily or if it becomes wet or dirty. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they can delay healing.

When to see a doctor for a cut

• If the cut is deep, longer than 2 cm, or the edges do not stay together
• If bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes of firm pressure
• If the wound is caused by an animal or human bite
• If you have not had a tetanus shot in the last 5 years and the wound is dirty or rusty

What to avoid after a cut or stitch

Do not soak the wound in water, such as in a bath or swimming pool, until it is fully healed. Avoid picking at scabs or stitches. Do not apply unapproved creams or home remedies that may irritate the skin.

When to call 911

Call 911 immediately if you experience heavy bleeding that does not stop, signs of shock (such as pale skin, weakness, or rapid breathing), or if the injury affects breathing, consciousness, or causes severe pain.

Summary

When stitches may get infected, it is important to watch for signs such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or pus around the wound. At home, keep the area clean and dry, and avoid touching or picking at the stitches. Do not apply any creams or ointments unless advised by a healthcare professional.

If you notice any signs of infection or if the wound does not start to heal within a few days, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can assess the wound and provide appropriate treatment to prevent complications.

Seek urgent medical care or call 911 if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relief
• Rapidly spreading redness or swelling
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) or chills
• Bleeding that will not stop
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face

Always prioritise safety by acting quickly when you suspect an infection or other serious problem. Early care can prevent complications and support proper healing.

External Resources

• Health Canada
• Mayo Clinic – Wound Infection
• World Health Organization – Infection Prevention and Control
• Canadian Red Cross – First Aid Tips

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or emergency care. Always call 911 or your local emergency number in a medical emergency.