Signs of Possible Infection?
Are the wounds on my body showing signs of infection? I'm a 44-year-old Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB) and I suffer from Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) which impacts my immune system and wound healing abilities. On Friday the 13th, I experienced a fall that resulted in cuts from a restroom stall door. I promptly washed the area with soap and water, followed by applying an antiseptic swab. Since then, I have treated the wounds with mupirocin two times and also used lidocaine to alleviate pain. The initial scab has fallen off, indicating the beginning stages of a second scabbing process. Even without physical contact, the area remains quite painful. Additionally, there is an itchiness that often accompanies the healing process. However, the skin underneath the cuts still feels tough, although it has softened compared to how it felt initially, which was like having a metal plate beneath the surface. I've included a link with three images for better understanding. Please note that I have not sought medical assistance for these injuries. I welcome any inquiries you may have and appreciate your time in addressing this matter.
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 10:30:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're very proactive about your wound care, which is great. Based on your description, there are several key points to consider regarding the potential signs of infection in your wounds.
Main Points:
- The initial healing process is progressing, but continued pain and itchiness could indicate inflammation or infection.
- Toughened skin beneath the cut may be part of the healing process but should be monitored for other signs of infection.
Explanation: The healing process after an injury can vary significantly, especially in individuals with conditions like Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which can affect immune function and healing. Pain and itchiness are common during healing as the body repairs tissue. However, persistent pain—especially if it's worsening—or the presence of other symptoms can raise concerns about infection.
Signs of infection to watch for include:
- Increased redness or swelling around the wound
- Warmth in the area
- Pus or drainage that is yellow, green, or foul-smelling
- Fever or chills
- Worsening pain instead of improving
Next Steps:
-
Monitor closely: Check your wounds daily for any changes, looking specifically for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, discharge, or systemic symptoms like fever.
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Continue good care: Keep the wounds clean and covered to prevent further irritation or exposure to bacteria. You may continue using mupirocin, as it can help prevent infection.
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Pain management: If the pain persists or worsens, consider non-prescription pain relief options such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if you have no contraindications, to help manage discomfort.
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When to seek help: If you notice any signs of infection mentioned above or if the pain does not improve in a few days, it would be wise to seek medical advice.
It's good to remember that your body might take longer to heal due to your condition, and having any concerns addressed with a healthcare professional, familiar with your health history, can provide additional reassurance. Stay vigilant with tracking your symptoms, and take care of yourself. If you need more guidance or details, feel free to ask!
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