Should You See a Doctor for a Lip Injury from a Ball Hit? - Plastic Surgery

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When it comes to injuries sustained during sports, particularly facial injuries like a lip injury from being hit by a ball, it is essential to assess the situation carefully. Based on your description, it sounds like you have a superficial injury that is healing, as indicated by the presence of a scab and the white discharge when the wound comes into contact with water. However, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to seek medical attention.


Signs You Should See a Doctor
1. Infection Indicators: If the white discharge you mentioned is pus, or if you notice increased redness, swelling, warmth around the area, or a fever, these could be signs of an infection. Infections can occur even in minor wounds, and prompt treatment is necessary to prevent complications.

2. Worsening Symptoms: If the pain increases or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as difficulty moving your lips, numbness, or if the wound does not seem to be healing, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

3. Deep Wounds: If the injury appears deeper than a superficial scrape or cut, or if you can see underlying tissue, muscle, or fat, you should seek medical attention. Deeper wounds may require stitches or other interventions.

4. Persistent Bleeding: If the wound continues to bleed despite applying pressure for 10 minutes, or if it starts bleeding again after initially stopping, you should see a doctor.

5. Functional Issues: If you have difficulty eating, drinking, or speaking due to the injury, it’s advisable to get it checked out. Injuries to the lip can sometimes affect the underlying structures, including nerves and blood vessels.


General Care for Lip Injuries
If the injury appears minor and does not exhibit any of the concerning signs mentioned above, you can manage it at home with the following steps:
- Keep it Clean: Gently clean the area with mild soap and water. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can irritate the wound.

- Apply an Antibiotic Ointment: After cleaning, you can apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection.

- Avoid Irritants: Try to avoid spicy foods, acidic foods, or anything that might irritate the wound while it is healing.

- Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye on the injury for any changes. If it starts to look worse or you develop new symptoms, seek medical attention.


When to Seek Emergency Care
If you experience any of the following, seek emergency care immediately:
- Severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications.

- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

- If the injury was caused by a dirty object or if you are unsure about your tetanus vaccination status, consult a healthcare provider.


Conclusion
In summary, while many lip injuries can be treated at home, it is crucial to remain vigilant for signs of infection or complications. If you have any doubts about the severity of your injury or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough evaluation and ensure that you receive the appropriate care. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to injuries, especially those involving the face.