It’s time to see a practitioner if you have symptoms of an infection. Signs that a wound may be infected include:
- Pus
- Redness and swelling
- A red streak that’s emanating from the wound
- Severe pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Black edges around the wound, which may be necrotic tissue
- An injury that isn’t healing or whose stitching has opened up
If you don’t have an up-to-date tetanus shot, you should see a healthcare provider immediately, especially if the wound has dirt in it.