Overview
Human bites are wounds caused by the teeth of another person. They can be serious due to the risk of infection and tissue damage.
Symptoms
Bleeding, bruising, or puncture wounds Pain, swelling, or redness around the bite Possible fever or signs of infection Limited movement if the bite affects joints or tendons
Causes
Assault or altercation Accidental biting during play or sports Improper handling of infants or pets in rare cases
Diagnosis
Physical examination of the wound Assessment of infection risk Possible imaging if bone or tendon involvement suspected
Treatment
Thorough cleaning and irrigation of the wound Antibiotics to prevent or treat infection Tetanus vaccination if needed Surgical repair for severe bites affecting joints or tendons
Complications
Infections, including cellulitis or abscess Damage to nerves, tendons, or bones Scarring or functional impairment
Prevention
Avoid physical altercations Use protective measures in high-risk situations Prompt first aid if a bite occurs