HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Can A Nail Scratch Cause An Infection?

Hi, I was scratched by someone in a card game. The scratch drew blood and still hurts even though it has been 24 hours+. The scratch area is red but only a faint line of the original scratch is present. I don t believe the person had and diseases, but could there be any problems?
Tue, 13 Nov 2018
Report Abuse
Pediatrician,  's  Response
Hi,

Cards are not sterile. So whenever there is a break in the skin, bacteria can pass through the skin and get into the body.

The concern now is could your pain and redness be the start of an infection?

Warmth and swelling around the scratch are other signs of infection, as is a fever.

Did you wash the area of scratch with soap and warm water immediately after the accident?

If you still have pain 48 hours (No longer) after the scratch happened, you ought to have it looked at by your primary care physician or go to the ER.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Arnold Zedd,
Pediatrician
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
Can A Nail Scratch Cause An Infection?

Hi, Cards are not sterile. So whenever there is a break in the skin, bacteria can pass through the skin and get into the body. The concern now is could your pain and redness be the start of an infection? Warmth and swelling around the scratch are other signs of infection, as is a fever. Did you wash the area of scratch with soap and warm water immediately after the accident? If you still have pain 48 hours (No longer) after the scratch happened, you ought to have it looked at by your primary care physician or go to the ER. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Arnold Zedd, Pediatrician