Why does a scrape hurt so much?
Scrapes are usually more painful than cuts because scrapes tear a larger area of skin and expose more nerve endings. How a scrape heals depends on the depth, size, and location of the scrape.
Minor scrapes may be uncomfortable, but they usually heal within 3 to 7 days. The larger and deeper the scrape, the longer it will take to heal. A large, deep scrape may take up to 1 to 2 weeks or longer to heal. It's common to have small amounts of fluid drain or ooze from a scrape.
It's normal for pain to accompany a wound. You can take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) as directed on the package. Avoid aspirin products, since they can cause or prolong bleeding. Apply ice if you have bruising or swelling, and avoid picking at scabs.
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment. This will help keep the affected area moist and prevent infection. If you notice the formation of a rash or redness due to antibiotic ointment use, suspend use of the ointment. Protect and cover the abrasion.
“As the body heals, the white blood cells flooding to the area make it swell a little, thus it's more tender, thus the little dings hurt even more.”
At a microscopic level, paper is actually quite rough. A metal knife makes a clean straight cut, but paper acts like a saw blade and does a lot more damage to cells and nerve endings. Paper also leaves behind tiny fibres and chemical residues, which irritate the wound even more.
Small cuts and scrapes can be left uncovered, but moisture is usually needed to help speed up the healing process. Apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) and cover with an adhesive bandage any exposed wounds that might become dirty on the hands, feet, arms or legs.
For the first few days, a wound may be swollen, red, and painful. This inflammation is a sign of the body's immune system kicking in to protect the wound from infection. Keep your wound clean and dry at all times to help the healing process.
Keep your wound covered with clean gauze or an adhesive bandage during waking hours. You can leave it uncovered while you sleep if it isn't oozing or painful. Don't soak your wound for long periods when bathing.
- redness around the cut.
- red streaking spreading from the cut.
- increased swelling or pain around the cut.
- white, yellow, or green liquid coming from the cut.
- fever.
Should you cover a scrape or leave it open?
Small cuts and scrapes can be left uncovered, but moisture is usually needed to help speed up the healing process. Apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) and cover with an adhesive bandage any exposed wounds that might become dirty on the hands, feet, arms or legs.
Any cut that is split open or gaping needs sutures. Cuts longer than ½ inch (12 mm) usually need sutures. On the face, cuts longer than ¼ inch (6 mm) usually need to be seen. They usually need closure with sutures or skin glue.
Most scrapes heal well and may not need a bandage. They usually heal within 3 to 7 days. A large, deep scrape may take 1 to 2 weeks or longer to heal. A scab may form on some scrapes.