When should I see a doctor about a cut?
Simple cuts do not need medical help. You can deal with them at home, and do not need stitches. This is what to do about a cut:
- Wash and dry your hands
- Clean the wound under tap water – and avoid using antiseptic as it may damage the skin and slow healing
- Pat the area dry with a clean towel, cloth or gauze
- Put pressure on the cut through the towel, cloth or gauze. When the bleeding has stopped (usually within ten minutes of pressure, or less) ..
- Apply a sterile adhesive dressing, such as a plaster.
Putting a plaster on a cut after cleaning it and the bleeding has stopped
So. When should I see a doctor about a cut?
This is when you think you may need stitches. A cut may need stitches (or other treatments) if:
- The bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes of applying pressure
- The cut is long or deep
- Something is embedded within the cut
- The cut occurred as a result of an animal or human bite, or was punctured by any other object that may cause infection
- The cut is on the mouth, face, hand or genitals. These are areas have a rich blood supply.
If any of these apply, go to an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) or A&E as soon as possible.
Summary
We have described when should I see a doctor about a cut. We hope you understand them better now.
