Infection is one of the most common risk factors after any type of surgery and occurs when harmful bacteria enter our bodies and begin to multiply. While our bodies’ defenses normally do an awesome job of protecting us, sometimes the bacteria are very prolific, meaning they multiply much faster than our bodies can effectively manage. This is when an infection starts to make you feel sick. But, how do you know when you are getting an infection? Watch for the following signs and symptoms:
1. Malaise
As bacteria multiply, an infection may become systemic, meaning it moves throughout your body. As a result of this, you may feel a lot more tired than unusual and experience a lack of energy. If you have had surgery and start to feel worse and not better, you may be suffering from general malaise, one of the most common symptoms of infection.
2. Fever
While having a low-grade fever (100 F or less) after surgery is quite normal, when your temperature spikes to 101 F or greater, you should contact your doctor or surgeon right away. A fever can lead to other complications such as dehydration and lack of appetite. Remember to keep yourself well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
3. Swelling, Heat and Redness
When an infection occurs, your magnificent body sends infection-fighting blood cells, called macrophages, to the rescue. This often results in swelling, heat and redness at the infection site.
4. Foul-Smelling Drainage
A bit of bloody, or clear drainage from a surgical incision is normal and usually disappears during the healing process. When a wound starts to drain purulent, foul-smelling drainage or pus, however, this is not normal and should be reported.
5. Pain
Under normal circumstances, pain after surgery should dissipate with each passing day. When your pain increases and is not relieved by pain medication, this should alert you to the possibility of infection.
Only your doctor can diagnose infection. If you experience any of the above signs and symptoms, it is important that you make a follow-up appointment as soon as possible. An infection can be treated with antibiotics, anti-viral or anti-fungal medications. If you are prescribed any of these, make sure to take the entire prescription, and not stop when you start to feel better.
Tweet This Post
