If you have stitches (sutures), you should:
- keep them clean and dry
- keep an eye on the wound (where the stitches are) for any increase in redness, swelling or pain
This will reduce your risk of developing an infection (see Signs of infection below).
For information on getting your stitches wet, see Can I get my stitches (sutures) wet in the bath or shower?
Protect your stitches
You should resist the urge to scratch your stitches as, even though they are strong, you may damage them.
If you have stitches, avoid contact sports, such as football or hockey, to give your wound the best possible chance to heal.
You should also not go swimming until your wound has healed and your stitches have been removed. For more information, see How soon can I go swimming after surgery?
If your child has stitches, they shouldn't play with water, mud, sand and paint. Playing with things like this could cause the wound area to get dirty or sore or cause an infection. Children may also be advised to avoid PE at school until their wound has healed.
Signs of infection
As well as protecting your stitches, watch out for the signs of infection such as:
- swelling
- increased redness around the wound
- pus or bleeding from the wound
- the wound feeling warm
- an unpleasant smell from the wound
- increasing pain
- a high temperature (fever)
If you have any of the symptoms above, speak to your GP or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 for advice. You could also visit an NHS walk-in centre or minor injuries unit.
Removing stitches
You will told if you need to return to your GP or a nurse to have your stitches removed. For example:
- stitches on your head: return after three to five days
- stitches over joints, such as your knees or elbows: return after 10-14 days
- stitches on other parts of your body: return after 7-10 days
Some stitches are made of dissolvable (absorbable) material and will disappear on their own. For more information, see How long will my stitches (sutures) take to dissolve?
Read the answers to more questions about accidents, first aid and treatment.
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