Dog attacks in North Carolina can be both physically painful and emotionally traumatizing. To make matters worse, some dog bites can become infected and lead to prolonged medical complications. After a dog bites you, it’s important to mitigate your risk of infection and know how to recognize an infection if it starts.
Preventing infection
There is more risk of infection after a dog bite if the bite penetrated the skin. An open wound that was exposed to the bacteria in a dog’s mouth should be cleaned thoroughly. When left alone, the bacteria in a wound can cause infection that may spread to other parts of your body.
A dog bite should be cleaned with soap and warm water to clear out any bacteria. Running warm water over your wound can help to flush out the area. After a wound has been thoroughly cleaned, you can apply antibiotic ointment and then wrap the area in a bandage.
Signs of infection
There are several signs of infection that you should be aware of after a dog attacks you. If you notice your wound becoming infected, it’s a good idea to seek further medical treatment. Here are some of the common signs that your dog bite wound has become infected:
- Redness around the bite wound
- Warmness around the bite wound
- Pain lasting more than a day
- Puss draining from the wound
An untreated infection could spread to other parts of your body and lead to sepsis. Here are some of the signs that you have a serious infection that has spread:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Shaking
- Chills or sweats
The dog owner may be liable for your medical expenses
Recovering from a dog attack can take time, especially when you are dealing with deep wounds and a risk of infection. If the dog owner was negligent, you may be able to sue them for financial compensation.
