Topics > Wrist > Bites

Bites

Bite injuries can be caused by both animal and human sources. Dogs are the most common source of bite injuries in this country; however, bites from cats, other pets, wild animals, and human also occur. Bites from animals are most common on the fingers and hand. Bites can cause infection and damage to tendons, bones, muscles, or nerves.

Although dog bites are the most common type of bit, the risk of infection from a cat bite or human bite is much higher. Wild animal bites also carry the risk of rabies infection. Pets are usually vaccinated against rabies, so the risk of infection is much lower. Animal bites should be reported to the public health department so that the animal can be observed for signs of rabies.

Human bites can be caused both by actual biting and by fist fighting, in which a fist strikes a tooth. Human bites carry a high risk of infection for a number of diseases, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and hepatitis B. You should seek medical attention within 24 hours for any human bite wound that breaks the skin.

You should always seek medical attention for any bite that shows signs of infection, damage to nerves or tendons, or that does not heal within 10 days. Signs of infection in a bit include swelling, pain, redness, and pus. If injury to a tendon or nerve has occurred, you may experience difficultly moving joints in the area of the bite or lose feeling in an affected finger.

If you are bitten, appropriate first aid is very important. For superficial bites, wash thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol. Be sure not to place the bitten area in your mouth, as this may introduce additional bacteria. Apply an antibiotic ointment and cover with a sterile bandage. Watch carefully for signs of infection. If the bite wound is bleeding, apply pressure with a sterile dressing, elevate the affected limb above the level of the heart, and seek medical help. Do not clean the wound while it is bleeding, but apply a sterile bandage.

Animal bite prevention is very important. Do not attempt to separate any two animals fighting, avoid animals acting strangely, and do not approach wild animals under any circumstances. Always keep your pet on a lease in public, make sure all pets are vaccinated for rabies, and do not leave your young child alone with any animal, even a pet.