Superficial Wounds
What Are Superficial Wounds?
Superficial wounds are injuries to the top layer of skin that causes a break in the tissue. The most common types of superficial wounds are cuts (incisions), scrapes (abrasions), and puncture wounds. Superficial wounds can be painful and take a week or more to heal, but they are typically less severe than other types of wounds and often don’t require medical attention.
Common Causes of Superficial Wounds
Superficial wounds can be caused by contact with a sharp or rough object, dry skin, medical instruments, chemical irritants, heat, or hot liquids. Other common causes of superficial wounds include insect bites, animal bites, accidently scratching yourself, or stepping on something sharp or jagged.
Signs and Symptoms of Superficial Wounds
The signs and symptoms of a superficial wound vary depending on the type and severity of the wound. Common signs and symptoms may include:
- Redness
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Itching
- Swelling
- Bleeding (for deeper wounds)
Treatment for Superficial Wounds
Most superficial wounds can be treated with basic home care. To treat superficial wounds, the first step is to clean the wound with water and mild soap. Use gentle pressure to stop any bleeding. Next, apply an antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to help keep the wound moisturized and to prevent infection. Then, cover the wound with a sterile bandage or gauze pad. To reduce pain and swelling, apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area.
In some cases, deeper wounds may require medical attention. If a wound does not heal or become infected, seek medical attention.