Is it Safe to Expose Glued and Stitched Wounds to Water After Two Days?
Greetings, I am a 26-year-old woman, standing at 5 feet tall and weighing 117 kilograms, with no routine medications and I do not smoke. Below is a summary of my medical history. Two days ago, I experienced a significant injury on the inside of my right lower leg, close to the ankle, which required internal stitches made of dissolvable material and external stitches as well. The smaller of the two wounds was treated with a type of adhesive I've never used before. Since the procedure, I haven't been able to see the wounds as they have been covered for the past two days. To protect them from moisture, I have been securing them with tape and plastic wrap. The emergency room physician advised me against exposing the wounds to water but did not specify when it would be permissible. According to online sources, the safe period for stitches can range from 24 to 48 hours, while instructions for wound glue suggest a timeframe of 24 hours to five days. I am curious about the risks involved if I were to remove the dressings today and allow the wounds to get wet during my shower. I am currently taking cephalexin for a five-day course and have a follow-up appointment with my general practitioner next Monday to remove the stitches, yet I am really eager to enjoy a normal shower today. I appreciate any guidance you can provide!
Answers (1)
3/17/2025, 11:30:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're eager to return to your normal routine, including showering, especially after an injury. However, exposing glued and stitched wounds to water too soon can pose risks.
Main Points:
- Avoid water exposure for 48-72 hours post-surgery for stitched and glued wounds.
- Wound healing is fragile during the first few days, and moisture can increase the risk of infection and affect the healing process.
Explanation:
When you have stitches or adhesive on a wound, it's crucial to keep it dry for the recommended time to promote proper healing. Water can compromise the integrity of the adhesive and stitches, leading to potential complications, like infection or reopening the wound. The advice usually ranges from 48 to 72 hours because at this point, the initial healing occurs, and the risk of complications decreases.
Next Steps:
- Delay exposing wounds to water: Continue to avoid letting your wounds get wet for at least another day or two.
- Keep the wounds covered with protective tape and plastic wrap while showering until it's safe to get them wet. You can wash the rest of your body while keeping them dry.
- Monitor for signs of infection: Watch for increased redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage from the wound area. If you notice any concerning symptoms, it may require further attention.
- Plan to discuss post-care: During your follow-up appointment next Monday, mention your concerns and ask when it's safe to shower normally.
Your eagerness to take a shower is completely natural, but prioritizing your wound care will help ensure a smoother healing process. If you have more questions or concerns, feel free to ask!
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