Yes, stitches can turn red, but it depends on the situation. A small amount of redness and swelling around stitches is normal, especially immediately following the procedure. This is due to the body's natural healing process. However, excessive redness, accompanied by other symptoms, could indicate an infection.
Understanding Stitch Redness
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Normal Redness: Minor redness around the stitches is a typical response to injury and repair. This generally fades over time as the wound heals. Sources like Alberta Health Services and healthdirect confirm this, stating that a small amount of redness and swelling is expected. RCOG also notes that the scar itself may remain red or purple.
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Infected Stitches: Increased redness, especially if accompanied by swelling, pain, pus, or red streaks radiating from the wound, is a sign of infection. Medical News Today and Healthline highlight these as key indicators of an infected wound. Dignity Health emphasizes fever and red streaks as urgent warning signs requiring immediate medical attention.
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Healing Process: Initially, the wound site will be red, tender, and swollen. As healing progresses, this redness should gradually lessen. Kids Health Info points out that post-stitching redness and swelling are expected and should improve as the wound heals.
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Scar Tissue: Even after the wound heals, some residual redness may persist as scar tissue forms. This is normal, but the intensity should not increase.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you notice:
- Increased redness spreading from the wound
- Swelling around the stitches
- Increased pain or tenderness
- Pus or other drainage from the wound
- Red streaks radiating from the wound
- Fever
Consult a doctor immediately. These are indications of a possible infection that needs prompt treatment.
