Can you drink alcohol after getting stitches for a hand injury?

Oct 30, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

Do not drink alcohol after receiving stitches for a hand injury. Alcohol can impair wound healing and may increase the risk of infection or cause adverse reactions with medications. Therefore, alcohol consumption should be strictly avoided from the time of stitching until the wound is fully healed and sutures are removed. During this period, keep the wound clean and dry, eat a light diet, and ensure adequate rest to promote recovery. If you have any concerns about the healing process, consult your attending physician promptly.

In general, alcohol consumption is not recommended after stitches for hand injuries, as alcohol can impair wound healing and may lead to infection or adverse drug reactions. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Alcohol causes blood vessel dilation, which may increase local bleeding or worsen swelling at the wound site, delaying the repair of granulation tissue and epithelial cells and prolonging the wound healing process. Moreover, alcohol suppresses immune system function, reducing the body's resistance. Since stitched wounds are open wounds, decreased immunity increases the risk of bacterial infection, potentially leading to redness, swelling, pus formation, or even more severe inflammation.

If antibiotics or other medications are being taken after stitching a hand injury, combining them with alcohol may cause adverse reactions. For example, some drugs can trigger a disulfiram-like reaction when mixed with alcohol, resulting in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and palpitations, which in severe cases may even be life-threatening.

Therefore, alcohol should be strictly avoided from the time of stitching until the wound is fully healed and sutures are removed. During this period, it is important to keep the wound clean and dry, maintain a light diet, and ensure adequate rest to promote recovery. If there are any concerns about the healing process, it is advisable to consult the treating physician promptly.

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How to reduce swelling from a hand injury, and what is the fastest method?

In general, swelling can be reduced through methods such as cold compresses, elevating the injured hand, compression, hot compresses, and medication. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Within 48 hours after the injury, apply an ice pack or a wet cold towel to the affected area for 10–15 minutes each time, multiple times a day. Cold compresses help constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing bleeding and swelling.

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How long should you bandage after suture removal for hand injuries?

After suture removal for hand injuries, the dressing is typically left in place for 1–3 days. If the wound is healing well without redness, swelling, or discharge, the dressing may be removed after 1 day. If there is still mild redness or swelling, or if the newly formed skin needs protection, the dressing can be kept for up to 3 days. If the wound reopens, leaks fluid, or shows signs of pus after suture removal, medical attention should be sought immediately at a surgical clinic. The wound condition should be closely observed on the first day after suture removal.

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How to quickly reduce swelling and relieve pain from a hand injury

Generally speaking, there is no such saying as "how to quickly reduce swelling and pain from a hand injury caused by hitting." When a hand becomes swollen from hitting, measures such as appropriate immobilization, ice application, heat therapy, elevating the affected limb, and medication can be taken to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Immobilization helps decrease movement of the injured area, preventing further damage and worsening of the swelling. The affected hand can be immobilized using tape or bandages, and aluminum plates or paper splints may be worn to restrict finger movement.