Antiseptics are chemical compounds that function to inhibit or slow down the growth of microorganisms, even being able to kill germs. Antiseptics are generally used momentmmemoryi wound, also time certain operations or procedures with the aim of reducing the risk of infection.
Many types of antiseptic products are available in the market. However, do not carelessly choose and use an antiseptic to clean the wound. Some antiseptic products are known to actually cause irritation which will hinder wound healing.
Using Antiseptics in Wound Treatment
Wound care often makes the wound feel sore, this is often the reason for being reluctant to treat the wound properly. In addition, some wound cleansers and antiseptics used, may cause irritation to the wound tissue and surrounding skin. It is important to choose the right wound cleanser and antiseptic, in order to treat the wound properly and avoid stinging.
Let's find out more about the choice of solutions that are often used to clean and treat wounds:
- AlcoholThis disinfectant solution can destroy germs. However, alcohol is actually not recommended for cleaning wounds, because it can interfere with the condition of the tissue around the wound and slow down wound healing.
- Hydrogen PeroxideAlthough classified as an antiseptic, the use of a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to clean and treat wounds is controversial. This is because this solution has a cytotoxic effect that can damage the tissue around the wound. That is the reason why hydrogen peroxide is not a good antiseptic choice for home wound care.
- Povidone iodineThis antimicrobial solution is effective against a wide variety of infection-causing germs, including Staphylococcus aureus. Even so, the use of povidone iodine to clean and treat wounds is starting to be abandoned, because it is damaging to healthy surrounding tissue cells (cytotoxic). The use of this solution also causes irritation, so it can cause a burning sensation in both the skin and the tissue around the wound, and can cause skin discoloration.
- Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB)Antiseptic with ingredients polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) is able to clean and treat wounds, fight bacteria that cause infection, and is painless when used. In some cases, it can even help reduce pain in the wound.
Steps to Treat Wounds Well
First, clean the wound thoroughly. Use an antiseptic solution that can help treat the wound as mentioned above. Antiseptics containing PHMB is one of the recommended options because it can treat wounds, and does not cause uncomfortable stinging.
The next step, you can stop the bleeding by gently pressing the wound with gauze. If the bleeding has stopped, you can cover it with a dressing or bandage, to avoid causing skin infections, and to maintain the moisture needed for wound healing.
Using an antiseptic is one of the efforts that can be done to treat wounds at home. However, if the wound looks severe or does not heal, you should immediately consult a doctor for treatment that is appropriate for your wound condition.