I think my wound is infected. What should I do?

Wound infections are relatively unusual. If you think you have an infection, it’s best to have your wound assessed by a doctor or nurse.

Approximately 5% of excisions (and a smaller number of other procedures) become infected. However, infections do not cause all painful or red wounds or all discharge. Signs of infection include:

• Pain and tenderness of the wound and surrounding area.
• Redness spreading out from the wound.
• Pus or an odour coming from the wound.
• Fever.

Most infections are minor and respond well to antibiotics, either oral or applied to the wound as a cream. If you think your wound is infected, you must not use any antibiotics or medications you have at home. These might not be suitable for the specific bacteria that cause skin infections. You should also not apply antiseptics such as alcohol, iodine or chlorhexidine unless instructed by a doctor or nurse. They can be toxic to new skin cells and slow down wound recovery.

If you think your wound is becoming infected, a doctor or nurse should be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of treatment.