Dog bites have a high likelihood of infection, which is why prompt medical attention is so important. Properly cleaning the wound can lower the odds that an infection will develop later.
However, because dog bites are puncture wounds, there is always an inherent risk of infection. Puncture wounds are deep and can push debris far below the surface layers of the skin, where it can become trapped and lead to infection. In some cases, bleeding helps flush contaminants out of a wound, but puncture wounds may bleed less, which can further increase the risk of infection.
What are some signs of an infected dog bite?
If you have been bitten by a dog and are concerned about infection, some potential symptoms to watch for include:
- Swelling and stiffness around the injured area
- Tenderness or warmth near the wound
- A wound that becomes red or pink, especially if red streaks extend away from it
- Pus or other drainage from the injury
- The onset of chills, fever, or other symptoms of illness as your body fights the infection
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Pain that worsens or persists for more than 24 hours
Even if a dog bite is very painful at first, it should begin to heal over time. If symptoms worsen, particularly if you develop a fever or other signs of illness, it may indicate that an infection has developed. At that point, it is important to seek further medical treatment.
If the injury you suffered was caused by another dog owner’s negligence, that individual may be responsible for medical bills, lost wages and other related costs. Take the time to explore your options for seeking compensation.