Health Tip: When Another Person Bites You
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(HealthDay News) -- A human bite can lead to a dangerous infection, just as an animal bite can.
About one-third of hand infections are caused by human bite wounds, which can be loaded with bacteria, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons warns.
The academy offers these guidelines for treating a human bite wound, even one that doesn't look serious:
Never put your mouth on the bite, as you can expose the wound to more bacteria.If the skin has not been broken, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water, or an antiseptic cleanser.Rub an antibiotic ointment on the area and cover it with a bandage.Any wound that appears to have caused internal damage should be examined by a doctor. For bites that are bleeding, apply steady pressure, elevate the area, and immediately seek medical attention.
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