Contents
How to Treat Waterborne Infections: A Step-by-Step Guide
Published: May 30, 2024
Knowing how to treat infections from water exposure can be crucial, especially if you enjoy swimming or water sports. Follow this step-by-step guide to stay safe.
Initial Wound Care
Start by cleaning the wound thoroughly with sterile saline to remove contaminants and reduce infection risk. Debride any crushed or dead tissue and remove foreign bodies if present. Proper initial wound care is essential for preventing complications and promoting healing.
Antibiotic Considerations
Evaluate the need for antibiotic prophylaxis based on wound depth, location, and exposure type. For deep or cosmetically significant wounds, antibiotics may be necessary to prevent infection. Consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine the best course of action.
Closing the Wound
Not all wounds should be closed immediately; some might benefit from delayed primary closure. Wounds exposed to treated swimming pools can often be closed right away, while those exposed to natural water sources might require additional precautions. Monitoring the wound closely in the days following closure is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use sterile saline for thorough irrigation.
For deep or cosmetically significant wounds.
Not always, some may need delayed closure.
The Bottom Line
Are you ready to handle waterborne infections effectively?
References
- Noonburg GE. Management of extremity trauma and related infections occurring in the aquatic environment. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2005; 13:243.
- Diaz JH. Skin and soft tissue infections following aquatic injuries and exposures. Am J Med Sci 2015; 349:269.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?