Experiencing Excessive Dryness in Stitches
I’m a 25-year-old female, standing at 5'2'' and weighing 63 kg. It's been six days since I had a surgical procedure, and I visit my local clinic’s nurse every other day for care. During these visits, she applies an antiseptic solution and places an alcohol-soaked cotton pad on the stitches, securing it with tape. Following her advice, I purchased gauze to change the dressing daily, which I've been diligent about. However, I’ve noticed that the area around the stitches feels incredibly parched. Whenever I attempt to straighten my finger, there’s discomfort, and bending it causes the skin at the base to form creases due to the severe dryness. Additionally, I have a history of eczema on my hands, which exacerbates the dryness if I don’t apply moisturizer frequently. The nurse cautioned me against applying any moisturizing cream directly on the stitches, as it could potentially cause them to come apart. She emphasized the importance of limiting movement since the stitches are positioned across a joint, making them more vulnerable to tearing.
Answers (1)
8/30/2025, 8:08:14 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a challenging situation involving excessive dryness around your stitches, which is likely causing discomfort and limiting your movement. It’s understandable to be concerned, especially considering your history of eczema and the advice you've received. Let’s break down the best ways to manage this issue effectively while ensuring your stitches heal properly.
Explanation
After surgery, especially when stitches cross a joint, it's common for the surrounding skin to become dry and tight, particularly if you're avoiding moisturizing the area. The use of alcohol in your dressings can further contribute to dehydration of the skin. Given your history of eczema, it's essential to approach this delicately to prevent irritation while still promoting healing.
Next Steps
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Change the Dressing Technique: Instead of using alcohol-soaked cotton for dressing changes, discuss with your nurse using a saline solution or a non-alcohol-based antiseptic that is less drying. This could help keep the area moist without compromising the stitches.
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Moisturize Carefully: Although your nurse advised against applying moisturizer directly on the stitches, you can apply a fragrance-free, gentle moisturizer to the skin surrounding the stitches. This helps relieve dryness without affecting the stitches themselves. Avoid any creams with active ingredients or additives which might irritate.
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Gentle Movement: Since your stitches are across a joint, limit stretching your finger too much to avoid stress on the stitches. However, gentle range-of-motion exercises may help maintain mobility without excessive tension. Always follow up with your nurse if you're unsure which movements are safe.
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Monitor for Infection: Keep a close eye on the stitches for any signs of infection—like increased redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any concerning changes, report them during your next clinic visit.
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Hydration: Ensure you're well-hydrated overall, as this can help your skin remain supple. Consider discussing dietary adjustments or hydration practices with a health professional to support skin healing.
By implementing these steps, you should be able to manage the dryness effectively while also ensuring the integrity of your stitches. If you find that the discomfort persists or worsens, ensure to bring it up with your healthcare provider for further advice. Remember, prioritizing your healing process is key and you're doing a great job caring for yourself post-surgery!
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