Stitches

how to take care of stitches?

So, I fell 2 days ago and i got 3 stitches in the back of my head, the doctor said I could wash my hair cuz obviously I bled a lot! but he was playing around a lot, and the nurse said i couldn't, so do everyone that i talk to.... Can I wash my hair (gently obviously)? Do I need to put something on it? like alcohol (isopropyl) perhaps?

Public Comments

1. You could use a face cloth with warm water, even a little shampoo and get someone else to gently cleanse the sutures and dried blood from your hair, rinse with water. I wouldn't shower and wash your own hair for at least 3 days, when the cut should be almost healed and like you said, gently. Then put a dab of polysporin or another topical ointment on it. And return to have them removed when the Dr said. Alcohol will burn like crazy and might start the bleeding again. Hope that helps!
2. when you wash your hair use a small amount of shampoo and wash it gently so you dont irritate the stitches / wound. it will keep it clean and help it heal faster.
3. Absolutely do not wash your hair. Stitches are not meant to get wet..or they will get infected. I just got stitches in my arm, and the general period of time before you take them out is 7-10 days. For this time period the stitches should remain covered with something(ie. bandaid, gauze pad, tape, etc.) and cannot get wet. If they do you risk getting and infection and having to go back to the dr. Trust me, i have had stitches several times, and every time they tell me that i cannot get them wet at all!!!! If you are able to wash your hair without getting them wet, go for it. But otherwise, it is not worth it. Good Luck.