When you are bitten by a dog, you may be asking how do you know if a dog bite is infected. A dog bite is likely infected if you see that the wound is swollen, has redness around the affected area, and has a purulent discharge coming from it. A victim of a dog bite may also experience intense pain, loss of sensation in the area they were bit, a fever, and vomiting. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dogs can carry harmful germs that can make us sick. A dog bite infection is typically the result of bacteria entering the broken skin.
For many dog bites, thoroughly cleaning the wound with a mild soap under warm water, applying antibiotic ointment to the injury, and putting a bandage over it will suffice. However, it is vital to keep an eye on your wound in case it does not heal as expected.
Dog bites can lead to a life-threatening situation, potentially causing a victim to suffer from sepsis or rabies. Amputation, scarring, disfigurement, and impairment can also occur. If you think your dog bite might be infected and you have not yet sought medical treatment, it is imperative that you do so as soon as possible to prevent your injury from worsening. Any dog bite should be cleaned immediately, as there is a high risk of infection.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
In the days following a dog bite, you want to make sure you have received medical attention and are monitoring the wound. It is possible that you will have to take antibiotics. The Cleveland Clinic states that if you have diabetes or are immunocompromised, your infection risk is even greater. It is important that you have received a Tetanus shot recently. If you have not had one in the last five years and your wound appears dirty, a physician may recommend you get a Tetanus booster shot. A medical professional will want to know as many details as you can possibly provide about the dog attack to keep you as healthy as possible.
Redness and swelling soon after the bite can be expected, but if this does not subside within a few days, it is not healing properly and is probably infected. If you find yourself experiencing flu-like symptoms after a dog bite, such as having the chills and/or feeling nauseous, you should go to the emergency room. A wound that is also hot to the touch or oozing pus is likely infected. There are many ways to tell if your wound is infected, and it is crucial to take your situation seriously if an infected dog bite is the case. The sooner you seek medical help, the better.
You Have Legal Options if Your Dog Bite Is Infected
If you are bitten by someone’s dog, and it turns out to be infected, you may be eligible to take legal action against the owner. A dog bite lawyer can discuss with you the laws in your state regarding dog bites and liability. An infected dog bite can bring about mounting medical expenses that you or a loved one may not be responsible for, and a legal professional can possibly help you pursue compensation.
Hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation may all be necessary if your dog bite is infected. You may endure more than just medical expenses as you may have to take time off from work, resulting in lost wages. You could even have damaged belongings from the attack and deal with pain and suffering. You may be able to recover these damages if your wound is infected and makes you ill. Depending on the laws in your state, you may have a case against the owner of the dog that bit you.
The best way to deal with your injury from a legal standpoint is to contact a dog bite lawyer in your state for a case evaluation. Your attorney will analyze the documents and evidence you provide and explain you the process. Building your case might take some time – as further investigations and witnesses’ testimonies might be necessary – but you could receive compensation for your injuries and suffering.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 794-0444
Pintas & Mullins Law Firm Is Here to Help
After a dog bite, you may be panicking about whether your dog bite is infected. See a doctor and make sure you receive adequate medical care and listen to the doctor’s advice. If the wound turns out to be infected, you may not have to pay for the expenses that come from this situation. A dog bite lawyer with our firm can investigate the situation and collect evidence for your claim. We may be able to build a case and can fight for the best possible outcome for you.
Call today for a free consultation with one of our representatives at (800) 816-0755. We do not shy away from tough cases.
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