My cat scratched me and my hand is swollen, what should I do?

My cat scratched me and my hand is swollen, what should I do? - briefly

If your cat has scratched you and your hand is swollen, promptly clean the area with mild soap and warm water. Monitor for signs of infection such as increased swelling or redness, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist beyond a few days.

My cat scratched me and my hand is swollen, what should I do? - in detail

If your cat has scratched you and your hand is swollen, it's important to take prompt and appropriate action to prevent infection and promote healing. Here are detailed steps to follow:

  1. Immediate Care:

    • Clean the wound gently with warm water and mild soap. This helps remove any dirt or bacteria that may have been introduced during the scratch.
    • Do not use hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or iodine, as these can irritate the wound and slow down healing.

  2. Controlling Bleeding:

    • If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure using a clean cloth or gauze. Raise your hand above the level of your heart to help reduce blood flow to the area.
    • If bleeding does not stop within 10-15 minutes, seek medical attention immediately.

  3. Preventing Infection:

    • Cat scratches can introduce bacteria that cause cat-scratch disease (CSD), which is more common in young children and people with weakened immune systems.
    • Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the wound to help prevent infection. Neosporin or Polysporin are commonly used options.

  4. Dressing the Wound:

    • Cover the wound with a sterile gauze bandage or a clean cloth. This will protect the area and keep it clean as it heals.
    • Change the dressing daily, or more frequently if it becomes wet or dirty. Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling the wound.

  5. Monitoring for Signs of Infection:

    • Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased swelling, redness, warmth, or pus drainage from the wound.
    • If you notice any of these symptoms, or if you develop a fever, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You may need to take antibiotics to treat the infection.

  6. Managing Swelling:

    • To reduce swelling, elevate your hand above the level of your heart whenever possible.
    • Applying a cold compress for 10-15 minutes, several times a day, can also help alleviate swelling. Wrap an ice pack in a towel before applying it to the skin.

  7. Pain Management:

    • Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce discomfort and inflammation. Follow the instructions on the package for proper dosage.
    • Avoid aspirin, as it can thin the blood and may increase bleeding.

  8. When to Seek Medical Attention:

    • If the scratch is deep or long (more than a few inches), seek immediate medical attention. Deep scratches may require stitches.
    • If you notice signs of infection, develop a fever, or experience increased pain or swelling, contact your healthcare provider right away.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage a cat scratch and promote healing while minimizing the risk of infection.