Can an infected wound heal without medical intervention – Signs, risks and treatment options

When our own body experiences a wound, it has an incredible ability to heal itself. In many cases, a wound will go through the stages of healing and eventually close up, leaving only a small scar. However, when a wound becomes infected, the healing process can become more complicated.

An infected wound occurs when bacteria or other microorganisms enter the wound site, causing redness, swelling, pain, and possibly pus. If left untreated, an infected wound can worsen and lead to serious complications, such as cellulitis or even sepsis.

Despite its ability to heal, an infected wound may require medical treatment to ensure proper healing. This usually involves cleaning and disinfecting the wound, removing any debris or foreign objects, and applying antibiotics or other medications to prevent or treat infection. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to promote healing.

While it is possible for an infected wound to heal on its own without treatment, it is not recommended. Seeking medical attention for an infected wound can help prevent further complications, promote faster healing, and reduce the risk of long-term damage or scarring. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment of an infected wound.

What Happens When An Infected Wound Is Left Untreated?

An infected wound left untreated can have serious consequences for your health. A wound becomes infected when harmful bacteria or other microorganisms enter the body through a break in the skin. While the body’s immune system can sometimes fight the infection on its own, it is not always able to do so effectively.

Complications of an Infected Wound:

If an infected wound is left untreated, several complications can arise, including:

1. Spread of Infection: The infection can spread to surrounding tissues or even to other parts of the body through the bloodstream. This can lead to a more severe infection and worsening symptoms.
2. Cellulitis: Cellulitis is a skin infection that can occur when bacteria enter the deeper layers of the skin. It is characterized by redness, swelling, warmth, and pain at the site of the wound. If left untreated, cellulitis can spread and cause serious complications.
3. Abscess formation: An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms as a result of infection. It can occur within the wound or in nearby tissues. Abscesses are often painful and may require medical intervention such as drainage.

The Importance of Seeking Treatment:

While some wounds may heal on their own without treatment, infected wounds generally require medical attention. A healthcare professional can assess the severity of the infection and provide appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics or wound cleaning. Prompt treatment can help prevent complications and promote proper wound healing.

Complications of Untreated Infections

If an infected wound is left without proper treatment, it can lead to various complications. The infection itself can worsen and spread to other parts of the body, causing the affected area to become more painful, red, and swollen. In severe cases, the infection may enter the bloodstream and lead to a serious condition called sepsis.

Untreated infections can also delay or hinder the wound healing process. The body’s natural healing mechanisms may struggle to combat the infection and promote tissue repair. This can prolong the time it takes for the wound to heal, increasing the risk of scarring and tissue damage.

In some cases, an untreated infected wound can develop an abscess. An abscess is a collection of pus that forms within the body tissue. It can cause intense pain, fever, and a general feeling of illness. Abscesses may require medical intervention, such as drainage and antibiotics, to fully heal.

Complications of Untreated Infections:

• Worsening infection
• Spread of infection to other areas
• Prolonged healing time
• Increased risk of scarring and tissue damage
• Possible development of an abscess
• Risk of sepsis

In conclusion, an infected wound cannot heal on its own without treatment. It is important to seek medical care to prevent complications and promote proper healing.

Signs and Symptoms of an Infected Wound

When a wound becomes infected, it can cause various signs and symptoms that indicate the presence of infection. While some wounds can heal on their own, an infected wound requires appropriate treatment to prevent further complications.

Common signs of an infected wound include:

1. Redness and Swelling: An infected wound may appear red, swollen, and warm to the touch. This is a result of the body’s immune response to the infection.

2. Pain and Tenderness: Pain and tenderness around the wound site are common symptoms of an infection. The pain may increase with movement or touch.

3. Increased Drainage: An infected wound may produce more pus, blood, or other fluid than a normal healing wound. The drainage may be yellow, green, or foul-smelling.

4. Delayed Healing: If a wound is not healing or shows no signs of improvement over time, it could be infected. An infected wound may have a slow healing process and show no signs of improvement despite proper wound care.

5. Fever and Chills: Systemic symptoms like fever and chills can indicate that an infection has spread beyond the wound site. If you experience these symptoms along with an infected wound, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

6. Increasing Pain: If the pain around the wound increases rather than subsiding, it could be a sign of an infection. Infections can cause pain to worsen over time.

7. Red Streaks: Red streaks extending from the wound towards the surrounding skin can indicate an infection spreading. This is known as lymphangitis, and it requires immediate medical attention.

8. Swollen Lymph Nodes: The lymph nodes near the infected wound may become swollen and tender. Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that the body is fighting an infection.

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms on a wound, it is essential to seek medical attention. Prompt treatment can prevent the infection from worsening and help the wound heal properly.

Risks Associated with Untreated Wounds

While the human body has remarkable healing abilities, an infected wound poses serious risks if left untreated. Although the body can sometimes heal its own wounds, there are cases where an infected wound cannot heal on its own and requires medical intervention.

Infection Spread

An infected wound can lead to the spread of bacteria, which can result in cellulitis, a skin infection. Cellulitis can cause redness, swelling, warmth, and pain around the wound site. If the infection continues to spread, it can affect deeper tissues and even enter the bloodstream, causing a more severe infection known as sepsis.

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition, which can lead to organ failure and death if not treated promptly. Therefore, timely treatment of infected wounds is crucial to prevent the spread of infection and potential complications.

Delayed Healing

Untreated infected wounds can also lead to delayed healing and chronic wounds. Infection can interfere with the natural healing process, prolonging the recovery time. The body’s immune response becomes compromised, preventing the wound from closing and increasing the risk of secondary infections.

Chronic wounds are wounds that persist for an extended period and fail to heal within the expected timeframe. These wounds can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, cause pain and discomfort, and often require specialized wound care.

In conclusion, while the body has the ability to heal some wounds on its own, untreated infected wounds can lead to serious risks such as infection spread and delayed healing. Seeking proper medical treatment is essential to prevent complications and ensure proper wound healing.

The Role of Immune System in Wound Healing

When a wound occurs, whether it is a minor cut or a deeper laceration, the body’s immune system plays a crucial role in the healing process. The immune system is responsible for protecting the body against pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, and it also plays a vital role in wound healing.

When a wound becomes infected, the immune system kicks into high gear to fight off the invading bacteria or other microbes. White blood cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, are deployed to the site of the wound to engulf and destroy any foreign invaders. These immune cells release chemicals that trigger inflammation, which helps to isolate and contain the infection.

In addition to fighting off infection, the immune system also helps to promote healing. Specialized immune cells called fibroblasts are involved in the formation of new blood vessels and the synthesis of collagen, a protein that provides strength and structure to the wound. The immune system also helps to remove dead tissue and clean the wound, creating an optimal environment for healing to take place.

Furthermore, the immune system sends signals to neighboring cells, instructing them to divide and proliferate to fill in the wound. This process, known as cell proliferation, helps to close the wound and form new tissue. The immune system also triggers the production of growth factors, which stimulate the migration of cells to the wound site and promote tissue regeneration.

In conclusion, the immune system plays a vital role in wound healing. It not only fights off infection but also promotes the formation of new tissue and the synthesis of collagen. Without the immune system, a wound, especially an infected one, would not be able to heal on its own. Therefore, it is essential to support and strengthen the immune system to ensure proper wound healing.

Can the Body Heal an Infected Wound Without Treatment?

When an wound becomes infected, it means that harmful bacteria or other microorganisms have entered the wound and are causing an inflammatory response. While the body has its own natural healing mechanisms, an infected wound may require medical treatment to fully heal and prevent complications.

The body’s immune system is designed to fight off infection and promote healing. When a wound occurs, the body sends white blood cells to the area to kill bacteria and remove dead tissue. The body also triggers an inflammatory response, which can cause redness, swelling, and pain.

However, if the infection is severe or the immune system is compromised, the body may not be able to heal the infected wound on its own. In these cases, medical intervention is often necessary to remove the infection and promote proper healing.

Treatment for an infected wound can vary depending on the severity and location of the infection. It may include cleaning the wound, removing pus or dead tissue, administering antibiotics, and dressing the wound to promote healing.

In some cases, if an infected wound is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications. These can include the spread of infection to other parts of the body, decreased function in the affected area, and even systemic infection.

While the body has remarkable healing abilities, it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect your wound is infected. A healthcare professional can assess the situation, prescribe appropriate treatment, and help ensure proper healing.

Factors Affecting Natural Wound Healing

When a wound becomes infected, it may not heal on its own and requires medical treatment. However, in non-infected wounds, the body has the inherent ability to heal itself without intervention. Several factors can affect the natural wound healing process.

Location of the Wound

The location of the wound plays a significant role in its healing process. Wounds on areas with a rich blood supply, such as the face and scalp, tend to heal more quickly. On the other hand, wounds on regions with limited blood flow, like the lower extremities, may take longer to heal.

Size and Depth of the Wound

The size and depth of the wound also impact the healing process. Smaller wounds generally heal faster than larger ones. Deep wounds, which may involve underlying tissues, may require more time and resources for complete healing.

Infection

One of the crucial factors that can hinder the natural wound healing is infection. When a wound becomes infected, bacteria can multiply and cause inflammation, delaying the healing process. Infections may lead to increased pain, redness, swelling, and discharge from the wound.

Overall Health and Immune System

Individuals with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, may experience delayed wound healing. A compromised immune system can affect the body’s ability to fight off infection and repair damaged tissue.

In conclusion, while non-infected wounds have the potential to heal on their own, several factors can influence the healing process. The location, size, depth of the wound, presence of infection, as well as the overall health and immune system of the individual, all play a role in determining the speed and effectiveness of natural wound healing.

Self-Care Measures for Promoting Wound Healing

While an infected wound can hinder its own healing process, there are several self-care measures that can be taken to promote healing. These measures can help prevent further complications and reduce the risk of infection spreading.

1. Keep the Wound Clean

Regularly clean the infected wound with mild soap and warm water. Gently remove any debris or dirt that may have accumulated. Pat the area dry with a clean towel or gauze.

2. Apply Topical Antiseptic

After cleaning the wound, apply a topical antiseptic or antibiotic ointment to help reduce the risk of infection. Follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider or the product label.

3. Practice Proper Wound Dressing

Cover the infected wound with a sterile dressing to protect it from further contamination. Change the dressing regularly, following any instructions provided by the healthcare provider. Avoid using adhesive bandages that can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients can support the body’s natural healing process. Include foods high in vitamin C, protein, and zinc, as they are essential for wound healing.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking an adequate amount of water helps keep the body hydrated and promotes circulation, which is essential for wound healing.

6. Avoid Smoking

Smoking can significantly impair the healing process due to its negative effects on blood flow. Avoid smoking or using tobacco products until the wound has fully healed.

7. Manage Underlying Conditions

If you have any underlying medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders, it’s important to manage them properly. These conditions can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of wound complications. Follow the advice of your healthcare provider and take any prescribed medications as directed.

While these self-care measures can promote healing, it’s important to seek medical attention if the wound shows signs of worsening infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. A healthcare provider can provide appropriate treatment and ensure the wound heals effectively.

Importance of Timely Medical Intervention

An infected wound can, on its own, be challenging to heal. Without proper treatment, it can lead to severe complications and even life-threatening conditions. Therefore, seeking timely medical intervention is crucial for the successful management of an infected wound.

When an infection occurs, the body’s immune system reacts to defend against harmful bacteria or other microorganisms. However, sometimes the immune response may not be sufficient to eliminate the infection entirely. In such cases, medical intervention becomes necessary to provide the appropriate treatment and aid the healing process.

Medical professionals have the knowledge and expertise to assess the severity of the wound, identify the causative factors, and prescribe the most suitable treatment. This may include cleaning and disinfecting the wound, antibiotic therapy, and, in some cases, surgical intervention.

Delaying or neglecting medical intervention can result in the infection spreading to nearby tissues or even entering the bloodstream, causing a condition called sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can lead to organ failure and death if not treated promptly.

In addition to treating the infection, medical intervention also aims to prevent further complications, such as excessive scarring, tissue damage, or the formation of abscesses. Skilled healthcare providers can ensure proper wound care, promote optimal healing, and minimize the risk of long-term complications.

It is essential to understand that an infected wound cannot heal solely on its own. While the body’s natural healing mechanisms play a vital role, medical intervention can significantly enhance the healing process and prevent potential complications. Therefore, seeking timely medical attention for an infected wound is crucial for ensuring proper treatment and a successful recovery.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Infected Wounds

While some wounds can heal on their own, it is important to recognize when a wound has become infected and requires medical attention. An infected wound occurs when harmful bacteria or other microorganisms enter the body through a break in the skin, causing inflammation, pain, and other symptoms.

If you have a wound that is not healing or getting worse despite proper care, it may be infected. Common signs of an infected wound include:

1.	Increased pain or tenderness around the wound
2.	Redness, warmth, or swelling around the wound
3.	Pus or drainage coming from the wound
4.	Foul odor from the wound
5.	Fever or chills
6.	Difficulty moving the affected area

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away. A healthcare professional will be able to evaluate the wound, clean it properly, and prescribe antibiotics if necessary. Delaying medical treatment can lead to further complications and delay the healing process.

Remember, not all wounds can heal on their own, especially when they become infected. Seeking timely medical attention for infected wounds is essential for proper healing and preventing potential complications.

Possible Complications of Delayed Treatment

If an infected wound is left untreated, it can lead to several complications. Some of the possible complications include:

• Delayed healing: When an infected wound is left untreated, it delays the healing process. The body’s own immune system may struggle to effectively heal the wound as the infection continues to hinder the natural healing process.
• Spread of infection: An untreated infected wound can allow bacteria to multiply and spread to other parts of the body. This can lead to a more widespread infection that may require more aggressive treatment.
• Cellulitis: If the infection spreads to the deeper layers of the skin, it can cause cellulitis. Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area. It may require antibiotics to treat.
• Abscess formation: Pus-filled pockets called abscesses can form in an infected wound if it is not treated promptly. Abscesses can cause severe pain and may need to be drained or surgically removed.
• Sepsis: In severe cases, an untreated infected wound can lead to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Sepsis occurs when the infection enters the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body. It requires immediate medical attention.
• Scarring: Delayed treatment of an infected wound can increase the risk of scarring. As the body’s immune response to the infection continues, it can leave behind more visible and permanent scars.

It is important to seek medical attention if you have an infected wound to prevent these complications and promote proper healing.

Types of Infections that can Develop in Wounds

When a wound becomes infected, its ability to heal on its own can be compromised. There are different types of infections that can develop in wounds, each with its own set of symptoms and potential complications.

1. Superficial Infections: These infections occur on the surface of the skin and typically involve redness, warmth, and swelling around the wound area. They are usually caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Streptococcus.

2. Cellulitis: This is a deeper skin infection that can develop when bacteria enter the deeper layers of the skin through a wound. It is characterized by redness, pain, and swelling and may also cause fever or chills.

3. Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that forms within the tissues of the body. It can develop in a wound when bacteria enter and multiply, causing a localized infection. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and swelling.

4. Osteomyelitis: This is a bone infection that can occur when an infection spreads from a wound to the underlying bone. It can be difficult to treat and may cause severe pain, fever, and limited mobility.

5. Necrotizing Fasciitis: Also known as flesh-eating bacteria, this is a rare but serious infection that can develop in wounds. It is characterized by rapid tissue destruction and can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly.

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect that your wound is infected. Proper diagnosis and treatment of these infections can help prevent further complications and promote healing.

Prevention of Wound Infections

While it is possible for an infected wound to heal on its own, preventing wound infections is crucial for ensuring a faster and more successful healing process. Here are some tips to help prevent wound infections:

Cleanliness

Keeping the wound and its surrounding area clean is paramount to preventing infections. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching any wound. Use clean and sterile tools when cleaning or dressing the wound to minimize the risk of introducing harmful bacteria.

Proper Wound Care

Proper care of the wound can significantly reduce the chances of infection. Clean the wound gently with mild soap and water, removing any dirt or debris. Apply an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment to help kill any bacteria that may be present. Cover the wound with a sterile bandage or dressing to protect it from further contamination.

Avoiding Contamination

Avoid exposing the wound to sources of contamination, such as dirty water or soil. Keep the wound covered and protected at all times, especially when engaging in activities that may put it at risk, such as gardening or participating in contact sports.

Proper Nutrition and Hydration

A well-nourished body is better equipped to fight off infections. Ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support your body’s immune system. Also, stay hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water each day.

Medical Check-ups

Regularly consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition that may impair the healing process. They can provide valuable advice on wound care and recommend any necessary treatments, such as tetanus shots.

By following these preventative measures, you can minimize the risk of wound infections and promote a healthy healing process for any wounds you may have.

First Aid for Infected Wounds

An infected wound can be a cause for concern, but with proper first aid, it can heal on its own. Here are some steps you can take to aid the healing process:

1. Clean the wound

The first step in treating an infected wound is to clean it thoroughly. Use mild soap and clean water to gently wash the area around the wound. Avoid scrubbing the wound itself, as this can cause further damage and delay healing.

2. Apply an antiseptic

After cleaning the wound, apply an antiseptic solution or ointment to help prevent infection. Antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide, povidone-iodine, or chlorhexidine can be used to disinfect the wound and promote healing.

3. Dress the wound

Once the wound is clean and treated with antiseptic, cover it with a sterile dressing or bandage. This will provide protection from dirt and further contamination, as well as help keep the wound moist for faster healing.

4. Monitor for signs of worsening infection

Keep a close eye on the wound for any signs of worsening infection. These may include increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus drainage. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention as further treatment may be necessary.

In conclusion, while an infected wound can heal on its own, proper first aid is crucial to facilitate the healing process. By cleaning the wound, applying an antiseptic, dressing it, and monitoring for signs of infection, you can help ensure a successful recovery.

Key Points:

– Clean the wound with soap and water

– Apply an antiseptic solution or ointment

– Cover the wound with a sterile dressing or bandage

– Monitor for signs of worsening infection and seek medical attention if necessary

Surgical Options for Chronic Infected Wounds

When a wound becomes infected, it can be challenging to heal it without proper treatment. While some wounds may heal on their own, chronic infected wounds often require surgical intervention to promote healing and prevent further complications.

In cases where a wound has not responded to other treatments, surgical debridement may be necessary. This involves removing dead or infected tissue from the wound to create a clean environment for healing. By eliminating the source of infection, the body’s natural healing processes can be more effective.

Types of Surgical Debridement

There are several techniques for surgical debridement, depending on the extent and location of the infected wound:

• Sharp debridement: This method involves using surgical instruments to carefully remove dead or infected tissue. It is typically performed under anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
• Enzymatic debridement: In some cases, special enzymes may be applied to the wound to break down dead tissue. This method is often used when sharp debridement is not feasible or appropriate.
• Mechanical debridement: This technique involves using a pressurized irrigation system or specialized dressings to remove dead tissue from the wound.

After surgical debridement, the wound is typically dressed with sterile dressings to promote healing and prevent infection. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to further manage the infection and support the healing process.

Other Surgical Options

In addition to surgical debridement, there are other surgical options available for chronic infected wounds:

• Wound closure: In some cases, the wound may be closed surgically using sutures, staples, or other closure methods. This can help promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
• Skin grafting: For larger or non-healing wounds, a skin graft may be necessary. This involves taking healthy skin from another area of the body and transplanting it onto the wound site to promote healing.

It is important to note that surgical options for chronic infected wounds are typically considered when other conservative treatments have failed. They should be performed by trained medical professionals to ensure safe and effective outcomes.

If you have a chronic infected wound that is not healing on its own, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include surgical intervention.

Effective Antibiotics for Treating Infected Wounds

When a wound becomes infected, it may not heal on its own and can lead to further complications. In such cases, antibiotics are often necessary to help fight the infection and promote healing. Antibiotics are medications that can kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, preventing them from causing further harm.

Choosing the right antibiotic for an infected wound is crucial in ensuring effective treatment. The choice of antibiotic depends on several factors, including the type of bacteria causing the infection and the severity of the wound. Different antibiotics target different types of bacteria, so it is essential to determine the specific bacteria present in the wound before prescribing medication.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics, such as penicillin and ciprofloxacin, are commonly used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including infected wounds. They are effective against many types of bacteria and can help in preventing the spread of infection. However, it is important to note that the misuse or overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which may render the medication ineffective in the future.

In some cases, healthcare professionals may prescribe a combination of antibiotics to improve the effectiveness of treatment. This is especially true for severe or complicated infections. Combination therapy can help target different types of bacteria and prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

It is important to follow the prescribed course of antibiotics for the entire duration, even if the symptoms of the infection improve. Stopping the medication prematurely can allow the bacteria to develop resistance and may lead to a recurring infection.

In conclusion, infected wounds may not heal on their own, and the use of antibiotics is often necessary to effectively treat the infection. The choice of antibiotics should be based on the specific bacteria causing the infection, and it is important to complete the full course of medication as prescribed. Proper antibiotic treatment can help prevent complications and promote healing of infected wounds.

Question and answer:

Can an infected wound heal on its own?

In some cases, an infected wound may heal on its own, especially if it is not too severe. However, it is still important to monitor the wound closely and seek medical attention if there are signs of worsening infection or if the wound does not show improvement within a few days.

What are the signs of an infected wound?

Signs of an infected wound may include redness and swelling around the wound, increased pain or tenderness, pus or foul-smelling discharge, warmth around the wound, and a fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as the infection may require treatment.

How long does it take for an infected wound to heal without treatment?

The time it takes for an infected wound to heal without treatment can vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual factors. In some cases, the wound may begin to heal on its own within a few days, while others may take longer. However, it is important to note that seeking medical attention is generally recommended to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

What can happen if an infected wound is left untreated?

If an infected wound is left untreated, it can lead to various complications. These may include the spread of infection to surrounding tissues or the bloodstream, abscess formation, delayed wound healing, and even systemic infections or sepsis. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if there are signs of infection or if the wound is not healing properly.

Are there any home remedies for treating an infected wound?

While there are some home remedies that may help with the healing process of an infected wound, it is important to note that medical attention is still recommended. Home remedies such as cleaning the wound with mild soap and water, applying antibiotic ointment, and keeping the wound covered with a sterile bandage can help promote healing. However, these remedies should not replace professional medical advice and treatment.

Is it possible for an infected wound to heal on its own?

Yes, it is possible for an infected wound to heal on its own in some cases. The body has its own defense mechanism to fight off infections, and if the infection is not severe, the wound may heal naturally over time.

How long does it take for an infected wound to heal without treatment?

The time it takes for an infected wound to heal without treatment can vary depending on various factors such as the severity of the infection, the individual’s immune system, and the overall health of the person. In some cases, it may take a few weeks for the wound to heal, while in others it may take much longer.

What are the risks of letting an infected wound heal on its own?

While it is possible for an infected wound to heal on its own, there are some risks involved. If the infection spreads or becomes more severe, it can lead to complications such as cellulitis, abscess formation, or sepsis. It is always recommended to seek medical attention for infected wounds to prevent these complications.

When should I seek medical treatment for an infected wound?

If you notice any signs of infection in a wound such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or drainage of pus, it is recommended to seek medical treatment. Other signs such as fever, chills, or feeling unwell may also indicate a more serious infection that requires medical attention.