Stitches, also known as sutures, are specialized medical threads used to close wounds. Their purpose is to hold the edges of the wound together, creating an environment where the body’s natural healing processes can occur efficiently. While stitches promote optimal healing and minimize scarring, some discomfort or pain in the stitched area is a normal part of recovery.
Normal Healing Sensations
As a wound with stitches begins to heal, it is common to experience a range of sensations that indicate the body’s natural repair mechanisms are at work. You might notice mild pulling or tightness around the stitched area, particularly when moving. This sensation often signifies that the sutures are effectively holding the wound edges together as new tissue forms.
A dull ache is also a frequent and normal occurrence, often accompanied by slight swelling, warmth, and tenderness during the initial inflammatory phase of healing, which can last up to six days post-injury or surgery. As the skin regenerates, a mild itching sensation may develop. These sensations are signs of healthy tissue regeneration and the body’s immune response working to repair the damaged area.
Reasons for Persistent or Worsening Pain
While some discomfort is expected, pain that becomes severe, persistent, or worsens over time can signal an underlying issue. One common cause is an infection, which can manifest as increased redness, swelling, and warmth spreading beyond the wound. Pus or a foul odor emanating from the wound, along with a fever, are also strong indicators of infection.
Stitches that are too tight or a wound under excessive tension can also cause significant pain. This often happens in areas with frequent movement, such as joints, where the skin is constantly stretched. The constant strain on the sutures can lead to sharp, pulling pain.
Nerve involvement is another potential source of pain, as small superficial nerves are often cut during injury or surgery. As these nerves regrow, you might experience sharp, shooting, or burning pain, tingling, or even numbness in the area. This sensation can persist for weeks, months, or even years as the nerves “settle down.”
An exaggerated inflammatory response can also contribute to more intense pain. While inflammation is a normal part of healing, an excessive or prolonged inflammatory state can lead to increased discomfort. Additionally, a hematoma, which is a collection of blood under the skin, can cause pressure and pain in the wound area.
Movement or activity can further exacerbate stitch pain. Strenuous activities or sudden movements can place stress on the wound, potentially pulling on the sutures and causing increased discomfort or even leading to the wound opening. It takes a full six months for the wound area to return to approximately 95% of its original strength.
When to Contact a Doctor
It is important to recognize specific warning signs that indicate a need for prompt medical attention. If you observe spreading redness, increased swelling, or warmth around the stitches, or if the wound develops pus or a foul-smelling discharge, you should contact a healthcare professional immediately.
A fever or chills accompanying stitch pain are serious indicators of a potential infection requiring urgent evaluation. Additionally, if your pain is severe, worsening, and not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication, or if stitches appear to be coming undone and the wound edges are separating, medical consultation is necessary.
Persistent or increasing numbness or tingling in the stitched area, especially if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms, warrants a doctor’s visit. Any excessive bleeding from the wound should also be reported to a healthcare provider without delay.
Relieving Stitch Discomfort
Managing stitch discomfort at home can involve several strategies to promote comfort and healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate mild to moderate pain; always follow the dosage instructions on the packet. Applying a cold compress to the area, if advised by a healthcare professional, can also reduce swelling and discomfort.
Maintaining proper wound hygiene is also important. Keep the wound clean and dry, and change dressings regularly as recommended by your doctor. Elevating the stitched area, especially if it’s on a limb, can help reduce swelling and throbbing.
Wearing loose-fitting clothing that does not rub against the stitches can prevent irritation and additional pain. Rest is also important, as avoiding strenuous activities that could pull or strain the wound allows the tissues to heal undisturbed.