Animal and Human Bites

When To See a Doctor

You have answered Yes to:

Are you worried that you may not have been able to get a bite clean enough using home treatment?


See significance of bites that cannot be adequately cleaned if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Note:

For more information, see how to clean a wound

Red square with white cross logo

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Are you unable to clean a bite because it is too large or deep?

Yes

Are you unable to clean a bite because cleaning causes too much pain?


If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.



Author: Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNCLast Updated: June 30, 2006
Medical Review: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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