Scrapes, minor cuts, and bruises happen easily and usually heal on their own without any medical attention. However, there are times when a bruise or scrape may require you to take a trip to urgent care.
When it comes to minor injuries like these, we advise you to do everything you can to ensure it doesn’t become infected, which could lead to more serious complications. Be sure you wash your hands and the wound with antibiotic soap and clean water at least twice daily. Keep the wound covered with clean dressings or bandages. Change the dressings at least twice daily. Take precautions to ensure no blood-borne illnesses or other infections are spread.
If you or your child has sustained a bruise or scrape and you think it needs to be looked at by a doctor, please come into Urgentology Care right away. In many cases, Arlington bruise and scrape treatments can be handled on your own, but if you have chronic health problems, especially diabetes, they can become very serious and require immediate medical attention.
No appointments are necessary, but you can call us at (817) 799-7273 or contact us online for a same-day appointment if you are in need of treatment for bruises and scrapes in Arlington.
Symptoms of Bruises and Scrapes
Here is a look at some of the most common symptoms of bruises, scrapes, and cuts:
- Bleeding
- Redness or swelling around the area that was injured or hurt
- Pain or irritation on the surface of the skin
If the above symptoms do not get better or go away completely in a few days, it may be in your best interest to visit urgent care.
Some of the signs that the scrape or cut has gotten worse and become infected include:
- Redness and swelling
- Pus or drainage from the site of the wound
- High fever
- Red streaks around the wound
- Warmth around the wound
- Increased pain at the site of the injury
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my scrape is infected, and what should I do?
It's crucial to monitor scrapes for signs of infection, as prompt action can prevent more serious complications. Common indicators of an infected scrape include increased redness or red streaks spreading from the wound, swelling that worsens, warmth around the affected area, pus or other yellowish or green discharge, foul odor, and persistent or worsening pain. You might also experience a fever or chills. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. At Urgentology Care in Arlington, our team can properly assess the infection, clean the wound thoroughly, and prescribe antibiotics if necessary to clear the infection and facilitate healing. Don't delay seeking care, especially if you have chronic health conditions like diabetes, as infections can become serious quickly.
How long does it usually take for a bruise to heal completely?
The healing time for a bruise varies depending on its severity and location. Most minor bruises will start to fade within a few days and completely disappear within two to four weeks. Deeper or larger bruises may take longer, sometimes up to several months, to fully resolve.
Come in to Urgentology Care clinic in Arlington today for treatment for bruises, scratches, scrapes, and other minor injuries. Call (817) 799-7273 now if you have any questions!
