Health Tip: Caring for Stitches

HealthDay – 1 hr 44 mins ago (HealthDay News) -- You may need stitches to help close an open wound and help reduce scarring.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to care for stitches:

Wait one to three days before getting the area wet.Gently wash off any crust that forms and accumulating dirt.If the wound seeps clear yellow fluid, you may need to apply a bandage.Apply antibiotic ointment if your doctor recommends doing so.If your doctor approves, wash and rebandage the area after 24 hours.Keep the area raised above your heart to help reduce pain and swelling.

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Health Tip: Caring for a Chemical Burn

HealthDay – 1 hr 17 mins ago (HealthDay News) -- A chemical burn should be treated immediately and with care, since traditional skin remedies -- such as an antibiotic lotion -- can react with the chemical and actually worsen the burn.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to care for a chemical burn:

Carefully flush the area with lots of cool water.Promptly remove any jewelry or clothing that may have come in contact with the chemical.Carefully wrap the area with a clean cloth or a piece of sterile, dry gauze.Call your doctor, 911 or the local poison control center as soon as possible.

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