Guidance on Managing Popped Stitches
Last week, I underwent a procedure to have a subdermal cyst extracted, and unfortunately, the stitches came undone without my realizing it. I noticed some discomfort in my arm and shoulder last night which concerns me. The problem is that my doctor’s office will remain closed until Tuesday, leaving me in a bit of a bind. The wound is approximately the size of a dime and has developed a crusty layer, but there’s noticeable swelling in the surrounding skin. Given the pain radiating through my arm, I’m beginning to worry that there may be an infection. I reached out to urgent care, only to find they were unable to assist, and the emergency room denied my visit due to insurance issues. In the meantime, what can I do to manage this situation until I can consult my doctor in a couple of days? Would applying some antibacterial ointment followed by a sizable bandage be advisable, or are there additional measures I should consider or avoid? I’m a 34-year-old male, 5'10" tall, weighing 212 pounds. Generally sedentary, but I don't have any significant health concerns otherwise.
Answers (1)
7/6/2025, 4:20:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with some discomfort and concern related to your recent procedure and the popped stitches. It's understandable to be worried about the possibility of infection, especially with swelling and pain involved. Here’s how you can manage the situation until you can see your doctor.
Main Points:
- Monitor the wound closely for signs of infection.
- Keep the area clean and protected.
- Manage pain with over-the-counter medications if needed.
Explanation:
The swelling and pain you’re experiencing may indicate irritation or infection, particularly since the stitches have come undone. It’s essential to keep the wound clean and observe any changes, as an infection could complicate your recovery.
Next Steps:
-
Clean the Wound:
- Gently rinse the area with mild soap and lukewarm water to remove any debris. Avoid scrubbing.
-
Apply Antibacterial Ointment:
- After cleaning, apply a thin layer of over-the-counter antibacterial ointment (like Neosporin) to prevent infection.
-
Cover the Area:
- Use a sterile bandage or adhesive dressing to cover the wound. Change it daily or more frequently if it becomes wet or dirty.
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep an eye out for increased redness, warmth, or pus, which could indicate an infection. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to seek medical assistance as soon as you can.
-
Pain Management:
- If you're experiencing discomfort, consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage the pain. Follow the recommended dosage on the packaging.
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Limit Movement:
- Try to minimize movement of your arm and shoulder to help reduce pain and prevent further irritation to the wound.
Important Reminders:
- If your symptoms worsen or you develop fever, chills, or increasing pain, you may need to consider alternative options for medical care, such as visiting another urgent care facility or an emergency room that accepts your insurance.
- Save your concerns and observations for your doctor’s appointment on Tuesday to give them a complete picture of your condition.
Take care of yourself in the meantime, and I hope you see improvement soon! If you have further questions or if your condition changes, feel free to ask.
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