A human bite is a wound or tissue injury that results from one human biting another.
Signs and symptoms of a human bite may include: a surface skin break with or without bleedingbruisinga puncture-type woundinjury to deeper tissue, including a major cut or crushing injuryinfection
Human bites are usually inflicted directly by an actual bite or indirectly when a body part accidentally strikes someone else's mouth such as in a fight. The knuckles are most commonly injured.
Young children, who often bite to express anger or other negative feelings, are frequently involved.
It is important to teach children about the dangers of biting someone else. It is also important to avoid putting hands on or in the mouth of someone who is having a seizure.
A human bite is diagnosed using a combination of history and physical findings. Often the actual teeth marks are visible. It is important that the injury is evaluated for damage to deeper tissue such as tendons and joints.
To treat a human bite, a person should: wash his or her hands thoroughly with soap and water.control severe bleeding by applying direct pressure with a clean, dry cloth. A person can also elevate the area or apply cool compresses.wash the wound with mild soap and warm running water for at least 3 to 5 minutes if the bite is not bleeding severely.cover the bite with a clean dressing.seek help from a healthcare professional, because of the high risk of infection and the possible need for a antibiotic prescription and a tetanus shot.
Side effects are minimal, provided that first aid is given immediately and that infection is diagnosed in the early stages. A tetanus shot may cause discomfort and swelling at the site of the injection.
There can be persistent swelling, redness, and/or pus draining from the wound, persistent pain, and scarring. Adequate treatment and prevention of infection can often prevent these.
