Cuts, scrapes and surgical wounds are part of life. Most heal without problems but it’s not always easy to tell what’s normal and what could signal a concern.
Some redness, swelling or drainage may be expected as your wound heals. Other changes may indicate your wound needs medical attention.
We spoke with Darcie Groeper, DO, a wound care specialist with Banner Health, to understand how wounds heal and when to see a health care specialist.
How wound healing works
Wound healing is how your body naturally repairs damaged skin and tissue. Even though every wound is different, the healing process usually follows the same pattern.
“There are four basic stages of wound healing,” Dr. Groeper said. “Each stage plays a role in helping the wound close and heal properly.
When something gets in the way of this process, healing can slow down or stop, increasing the risk of infection or chronic (long-lasting) wounds.
The four stages of wound healing
Stage 1: Hemostasis (stopping the bleeding)
The first stage starts right after an injury. Blood vessels tighten, and blood clotting helps stop the bleeding. The clot works like a seal to close the broken blood vessels and keep blood from leaking out. Sometimes, a scab forms within hours or days to protect the wound.
Stage 2: Inflammation (cleaning the wound)
“The inflammatory phase is where the wound starts to organize to begin healing,” Dr. Groeper said.
It starts within 24 hours of an injury and lasts for two to five days.
Blood flow increases and the body sends white blood cells to clean the wound and fight bacteria. This stage is critical, and it’s also where healing problems can begin.
“This is generally where a wound can turn into a chronic wound and require assistance,” Dr. Groeper said. “Many things can impact this stage and prevent the wound from progressing.”
The four signs of normal inflammation are:
- Mild redness
- Warmth
- Swelling
- Pain or tenderness
Stage 3: Proliferation (new tissue growth)
During the proliferation stage, the body builds new tissue.
“The third step is where collagen is being deposited, the edges of the wound start to pull inward and new skin is made,” Dr. Groeper said.
This stage can last four days or up to three weeks or longer, depending on the wound size and severity.
Stage 4: Maturation (strengthening the skin)
The last and longest part of healing happens after the wound is closed. It can take months or even years, depending on how big the wound is and how much scar tissue forms.
“During the fourth phase, tissue and collagen become stronger and more flexible,” Dr. Groeper said. “Excessive collagen can cause scar tissue to form.”
[Also read: How to Minimize the Appearance of Unsightly Scars.]
How long should a wound take to heal?
Healing time depends on the wound and your overall health.
- Minor cuts and scrapes: Seven to 10 days
- Surgical wounds: Several weeks
- Deep or chronic wounds: Months
Signs your wound is healing correctly
A healing wound may show:
- Redness that slowly fades
- Swelling that improves
- Pain that lessens over time
- Scab or new skin formation
- Clear, light yellow or blood-tinged drainage
“Drainage is present with any open wound, because the body is made up of a lot of water,” Dr. Groeper said.
Warning signs that a wound may not be healing properly
Some changes are not normal and should be checked by a health care specialist.
“Signs of possible infection include a change in baseline drainage. This might include thicker, darker or different colors such as green, brown or thick white, foul-smelling pus,” Dr. Groeper said.
Other warning signs include:
- Increasing pain
- Redness spreading around the wound
- Warmth or swelling
- Fever or chills
- The wound reopening or not shrinking
- New blisters forming around the wound
“Blisters around a wound usually signify too much edema (swelling) and inflammation,” Dr. Groeper said. “Uncontrolled swelling can pull a wound open, especially on the legs and feet.”
This is usually treated using compression, which speeds healing and prevents the wound from being pulled open.
Who is at higher risk for slow wound healing?
Some people are more likely to have healing problems, including those who:
- Have diabetes
- Have poor circulation or vascular disease
- Smoke or use nicotine products
- Are older adults
- Have weakened immune systems
- Are not getting enough protein, vitamins or fluids
- Take certain medications, including steroids or chemotherapy
If you fall into one of these groups, it’s especially important to monitor wounds closely and seek care early if something doesn’t seem right.
Ways to help your wound heal properly
Good wound care can make a difference. Here are some things you can do at home.
- Keep the wound clean: Gently clean the wound with soap and water unless your health care provider gives different instructions. Avoid harsh cleaners like hydrogen peroxide unless directed. Always wash your hands before touching the wound or changing bandages.
- Protect it: Cover the wound with a clean bandage to keep out dirt and bacteria. Change dressing as recommended.
- Avoid touching: Do not scratch, pick or pop blisters or scabs.
- Watch for changes: Check the wound daily for signs of healing or infection.
- Eat well: Protein, vitamin C, zinc and fluids support tissue repair.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking slows blood flow and delays healing.
- Follow medical advice: Take prescribed medications as directed and attend follow-up appointments.
When should you see a provider for a wound?
Seek medical care right away if:
- Bleeding won’t stop
- The wound is deep, large or caused by an animal bite
- You see signs of infection
- You have diabetes and a foot wound
- The wound isn’t healing after two weeks
If you’re unsure, it’s always better to check. Early treatment can prevent serious complications.
The bottom line
Most wounds heal with time and proper care. Knowing what’s normal and what’s not may give you peace of mind and help you act quickly if something changes.
If a wound looks worse instead of better, don’t wait. Banner Health providers are here to help you heal safely.
