Human bites, often underestimated, can be more hazardous than animal bites due to the diverse array of bacteria in the human mouth, which increases the risk of serious infection. Prompt treatment is important to minimize potential complications.
Immediate Home Care
If a human bite breaks the skin, immediate action at home can help reduce the risk of infection. Begin by applying direct pressure to the wound with a clean, dry cloth to stop any bleeding.
Once bleeding is controlled, thoroughly wash the wound with mild soap and warm, running water for three to five minutes. Rinse the area under pressure from a faucet without scrubbing vigorously, as scrubbing can bruise the tissue. After cleaning, apply an antibacterial ointment and cover it with a sterile, nonstick bandage. Avoid using tape or butterfly bandages to close the wound, as this might trap harmful bacteria inside.
Recognizing When to Get Medical Help
Seek immediate medical attention for certain human bite wounds. Any bite that breaks the skin, especially if deep or located over a joint or bone, needs evaluation. Bites to sensitive areas such as the face, hands, or feet also carry a higher risk of complications.
Signs of infection, including increasing redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, pus discharge, or a fever, require prompt medical care. Individuals with weakened immune systems, those with diabetes, or very young children and elderly persons are more susceptible to severe infections and should seek medical attention for any bite that breaks the skin. Medical evaluation within 24 hours is recommended.
Professional Medical Care and Continued Monitoring
Upon seeking professional medical care, the healthcare provider will thoroughly clean the wound. This often involves irrigating the wound with a sterile solution and may include debridement, which is the removal of any damaged or contaminated tissue. While some wounds, particularly those on the face, might be sutured, many human bites are left open to heal to prevent trapping bacteria.
Antibiotics are frequently prescribed to prevent or treat bacterial infections arising from the diverse oral flora. The specific antibiotic and duration of treatment will depend on the bite’s severity and location. Additionally, a healthcare professional may recommend a tetanus booster shot, especially if the injured person has not received one within the last five years, administered within 48 hours of the injury. In rare instances, if there is a concern about exposure to certain viruses, such as HIV or hepatitis B or C, the healthcare provider may recommend testing for both the bitten individual and the person who inflicted the bite.
After professional treatment, monitor the wound. Watch for any developing signs of infection, such as increased pain, spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or pus, and seek follow-up care if these symptoms appear. Most human bites heal without complications when properly treated, with infections resolving within 7 to 10 days with antibiotic therapy.