Article: If you have serious symptoms and need to see a doctor, they'll start by performing a physical exam. Let them know how and when you got cut, when your symptoms appeared or started worsening, and any antibiotics or other medications you've recently taken. This information will help your doctor determine the best course of treatment. Your doctor will most likely take a sample of any pus or discharge, cut a small tissue sample, or wipe the infected cut with a swab. They'll then have the sample tested for specific germs. The results will let them know whether you need antibiotics and, if necessary, which type to prescribe. If you have an abscess, they'll likely drain it and take a culture of the pus it contains. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, take your medication according to their instructions. Don't stop taking it even if your cut heals. If you stop taking an antibiotic prematurely, the infection might come back and get worse. Your doctor might also recommend taking an over-the-counter drug for pain or fever, such as Tylenol or ibuprofen. In rare cases, a skin infection can lead to sepsis or other life-threatening conditions. If necessary, your doctor will have you admitted to a hospital for specialist care, which might include intravenous (IV) medications or surgery to remove infected tissue.
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Tell your doctor where you got the cut when they examine you. Get a skin culture. Take antibiotics and other medications as directed. Discuss hospitalization for severe infections.