Acute Wound Care Doctor in Bradenton FL

Acute wounds—such as cuts, scrapes, surgical incisions, or minor burns—are usually recent injuries. At Manatee Primary Care, we help patients manage these wounds so they heal efficiently, following the normal stages of recovery. With prompt and proper care, most acute wounds will heal within a few weeks without complications.

Chronic wounds, on the other hand, are injuries that do not heal as expected. If a wound hasn’t improved within about four weeks, it may be considered chronic. These wounds are often linked to underlying health issues like diabetes, poor circulation, or immune system disorders. Examples include diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, and venous leg ulcers. Chronic wounds can be slow to heal due to infections, repeated trauma, or limited blood supply, and they often require specialized medical attention.

Our experienced team is equipped to evaluate and treat both acute and chronic wounds. We work closely with our patients to address any underlying health conditions that may be affecting the healing process and provide comprehensive wound care to promote faster, more complete recovery.

If you have a wound, it’s important to watch for signs of infection so you can get the right care promptly. Common signs that a wound may be getting infected include:

• Increasing Redness: Look for redness spreading outward from the wound.
• Swelling and Warmth: The area may become swollen and feel warmer or hotter than the surrounding skin.
• Worsening Pain: Pain or tenderness that increases instead of getting better.
• Unusual Drainage: Pus or discharge that is yellow, green, or white—or has a foul odor.
• Fever or Feeling Unwell: If you develop a fever or start to feel sick, the infection may be spreading.

In some cases, you might notice red streaks extending from the wound, which can be a sign of a serious infection that is spreading through your lymphatic system and requires immediate medical attention.

The time it takes for a wound to heal completely depends on various factors, such as the type and severity of the wound, your age, overall health, and how well the wound is cared for. For most minor cuts and scrapes, healing can occur within a few days to a week. However, deeper wounds—like surgical incisions or significant lacerations—may take several weeks or even months to heal fully.

Certain conditions, such as diabetes, poor circulation, or immune system disorders, can slow down the healing process. Other factors like smoking, poor nutrition, and some medications may also affect how quickly your body recovers.

Taking proper care of your wound—by keeping it clean, protected, and following your Manatee Primary Care provider’s instructions—is essential for faster and more complete healing. Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. These symptoms can delay healing and may require medical attention.

Minimizing scarring after an injury is an important part of your overall recovery and well-being. Our team is here to help you heal with the best possible cosmetic outcome. Here are some expert tips we recommend for proper wound care and scar prevention:

Clean the Wound Gently: As soon as an injury occurs, gently clean the area with mild soap and water. This helps prevent infection, which can increase the risk of noticeable scarring.

Keep it Covered: Protect your wound with a clean, fresh bandage to keep out dirt and bacteria. Change the bandage regularly, following your provider’s instructions.

Moisturize for Healing: Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment can help keep the wound moist. This encourages healing and minimizes the chances of visible scars.

Consider Silicone Products: Once the wound has closed, silicone gel sheets or creams can help flatten and fade scars over time.

Shield from the Sun: Ultraviolet rays can darken healing scars and make them more prominent. Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on the healing area, especially if it’s exposed to the sun.

Follow Stitches Care: If you have stitches, follow your provider’s care instructions and schedule for removal to promote optimal healing.

Consult for Special Concerns: If you have a history of keloid or hypertrophic scars, or if your scar is in a sensitive area, let us know. We can coordinate referrals to dermatology and discuss specialized treatments, such as pressure therapy, corticosteroid injections, or laser therapy when appropriate.

Consistent, gentle care is key. Most scars will fade and improve with time. If you have any concerns about healing wounds or scar appearance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Manatee Primary Care team—we’re here to support your recovery every step of the way. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 6302 Manatee Ave W, Suite D, Bradenton, FL 34209. We serve patients from Bradenton FL, Parrish FL, Bayshore Gardens FL, Memphis FL, South Bradenton FL, Palmetto FL, and surrounding areas.