Lidocaine cream is a topical anesthetic that numbs the skin, providing temporary relief from pain, itching, or burning sensations. It blocks nerve signals from reaching the brain, creating a localized area of numbness. This cream is commonly used for minor skin irritations like sunburn, insect bites, or small scrapes, and before some medical procedures to reduce discomfort.
Applying Lidocaine to Open Wounds
Applying over-the-counter lidocaine cream to an open wound is generally not recommended. An “open wound” is any break in the skin where deeper layers are exposed, such as cuts, abrasions, or burns with broken skin. While safe on intact skin for minor irritations, its use on compromised skin requires different considerations.
Specialized lidocaine formulations may be used on broken skin under strict medical supervision. For typical home use, manufacturers and medical professionals advise against applying lidocaine cream to large areas, irritated skin, or open wounds. The main concern is how the body absorbs the medication when the skin’s protective barrier is compromised.
Understanding the Potential Risks
Applying lidocaine cream to open wounds increases the risk of systemic absorption, where more medication enters the bloodstream than intended. Broken or damaged skin allows for greater absorption, leading to higher concentrations of lidocaine in the body. Covering the treated area, especially with occlusive dressings, can further enhance this absorption, elevating the risk of adverse effects.
Elevated lidocaine levels in the bloodstream can lead to systemic toxicity, impacting the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. Central nervous system effects may include dizziness, confusion, ringing in the ears, visual changes, muscle twitching, and, in severe cases, seizures or coma. Cardiovascular effects can manifest as irregular heartbeats, low blood pressure, or, rarely, cardiac arrest. The risk of toxicity is higher in children and individuals with liver or heart disease.
Furthermore, the inactive ingredients found in many topical creams might irritate the exposed tissues of an open wound, potentially delaying the natural healing process. Applying these products could also create an environment conducive to infection if the wound is not kept clean and sterile. Another concern is that the numbing effect of lidocaine might mask important signs of a worsening infection or other complications, which could delay necessary medical attention.
Safe Wound Care and Pain Management
Proper first aid for open wounds focuses on preventing infection and promoting healing. Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water before touching the wound. Gently clean the wound with clean, lukewarm water to remove any dirt or debris, and then pat the surrounding skin dry with a clean cloth. For bleeding wounds, apply gentle, direct pressure with a clean towel or sterile dressing until the bleeding stops.
After cleaning, cover the wound with a sterile dressing to protect it from further contamination. Minor abrasions or cuts might heal without a bandage, but covering larger or deeper wounds is generally advisable. Seek professional medical attention if a wound is deep, large, won’t stop bleeding, shows signs of infection like increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or a foul odor, or if you develop a fever. Wounds from animal bites or puncture wounds also warrant medical evaluation.
For pain relief, safe alternatives exist that do not carry the risks associated with applying lidocaine to open wounds. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage mild to moderate pain. Applying a cold compress to the injured area can also help reduce pain and swelling. Elevating the injured body part can further minimize swelling and discomfort. Always follow the dosage instructions on medication labels or consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.