What should I do if a dog bite wound is hurting slightly?

The wound from a dog bite is mildly painful. It is important to thoroughly clean the wound, assess its condition, prevent infection, relieve pain, and monitor healing progress to avoid worsening complications. If the wound is deep, continues bleeding, or shows signs of redness, swelling, or pus, seek immediate medical attention.

1. Thoroughly clean the wound: Rinse the wound with running water and soap solution alternately for at least 15 minutes to remove dirt and saliva residue. Gently pat dry with clean gauze afterward to reduce the risk of bacterial growth, pain, and infection.

2. Assess the wound condition: Examine the depth, size, and location of the wound, checking for any remaining tooth fragments or tissue damage. Superficial wounds require thorough cleaning, while deeper wounds need careful evaluation for possible vascular or nerve injury, providing essential information for further management.

3. Prevent infection: Apply iodine tincture promptly after cleaning to disinfect the area. Avoid using alcohol, which may irritate the wound and increase pain. If indicated, complete the full course of rabies and tetanus vaccinations as scheduled to reduce the risk of serious infections.

4. Relieve pain symptoms: In the absence of infection, apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain. Avoid pressing or rubbing the wound. Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction and irritation. Use mild pain relievers as directed by a healthcare provider if necessary.

5. Monitor healing progress: Check the wound daily for signs of increasing redness, swelling, discharge, pus, or worsening pain. Keep track of the healing process. If pain persists beyond three days without improvement, consider the possibility of infection or other complications.

Keep the affected area clean and dry, avoiding contact with water and strenuous physical activity. Eat a diet rich in protein and vitamins to support wound healing, avoid spicy or irritating foods, and wear soft, breathable clothing to reduce friction and promote recovery.