Yes, infections often hurt to touch.
Infections, particularly wound infections, frequently cause pain and increased sensitivity in the affected area. The presence of infection triggers an inflammatory response in the body. This inflammation leads to several noticeable symptoms, including pain, which is often exacerbated when the area is touched.
Common Signs of an Infection
According to the reference material, an infection may lead to several tell-tale signs, including:
- Redness and other discoloration: The skin around the infected area may become red or discolored.
- Swelling: Inflammation causes swelling in the affected region.
- Pain: The area becomes tender and painful, especially when touched.
- Warm skin: The skin around the wound may feel warmer than the surrounding skin.
Why Does it Hurt?
The pain associated with an infection is due to the inflammatory response. When the body detects an infection, it releases chemicals to fight off the invading pathogens. These chemicals can irritate nerve endings, making the area more sensitive to touch and causing pain. The swelling also contributes to the pain by putting pressure on the surrounding tissues and nerves.
