How can I reduce pain from a wound or incision?

West Valley Medical Center

You can usually reduce pain from a wound or incision with over-the-counter medications.

Dr. Francis X. Downey, MD on behalf of Aurora Health Care

Cardiothoracic Surgeon

If your incision or wound is painful, you may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) as recommended by your doctor to reduce pain. Follow the instructions on the bottle. If your doctor has prescribed pain medicine, take it as ordered. Also, as the wound heals, it may begin to itch.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Pain Treatment

Pain treatment varies depending on the severity of an injury or cause of the pain. Analgesics, or pain relievers, may be your first step. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin can treat mild to moderate pain. Stronger pain medication may be prescribed after surgery or more severe injuries. For chronic pain that persists, your doctor can help determine the best course of treatment or give you a referral for a pain specialist. Learn more about treating pain with expert advice from Sharecare.

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