Health Tip: Keep Stitches Clean and Dry

Take care of them properly

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(HealthDay News) -- Stitches are used to close deep cuts in the skin. They need to be properly cared for to prevent significant scarring and infection.

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Here are suggestions on caring for stitches, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

• Keep the stitches clean and dry. You should be able to wash the area within one to three days of getting the stitches.
• If recommended by your doctor, after 24 hours, gently clean the wound with water, thoroughly dry, and re-bandage it.
• Gently wash off the dirt and crust that forms over the stitches.
• If a light, yellow fluid drains from the wound, you may need to keep it covered.
• With your doctor's approval, use a bit of antibiotic ointment on the wound to reduce the risk of infection.
• To reduce pain and swelling, for up to two days after getting the stitches, try to keep the wound elevated above your heart as much as possible.

-- Diana Kohnle