Hello, I Got Gunshot Wounds From One Week Ago.The Bullet
I got gunshot wounds from one week ago.The bullet went through and through. I went to the emergency room and had a CT scan. No fragments left inside. The bullet damaged only fat tissue. I was left with 2 holes; entrance and exit. I was patched up and sent home. They said it will heal itself
What I am concerned about is about the progress of the healing process. I haven't had any similar injuries and I do not know what I should expect.
How will the dead fat tissue be cleared up? Will it be discharged from the entrance and exit points? I haven't seen much drainage till now.
Also, the area around the two wounds has gotten yellowish, and swollen.
Generally, I need to be educated on the normal process of healing of these kinds of injuries.
Thanks.
It will heal within 10 days. Seek for psychological support if needed.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for using "Ask a doctor"
I am sorry to read that you were shot. Good to read that it didn't cause significant physical damage.
I guess you got stitches to close the wound. Do not remove the bandage for at least 24 hours, and then after you can shower if you want but not soak it in water for long time (no bath is advised).
It will heal within 10 days. Stitches will be removed from 5 days (if the wound is in the face) to after 7-10 days (if the wound is in other parts of the body.
If you were given a local antibiotik then use it, but otherwise no need. Take an analgesic as needed if you have pain - Ibuprofen 600 mg every 6 hours.
If you start having fever or bleeding then consider going back to your local doctor to have a check on it.
The biggest damage in this case may be psychological. Talk with someone if you experience anxiety, insecurity, fear or other symptoms that make you think or get back to that episode.
I hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards, Dr. Klarida Papaqako
General and family physician