Unusual Scratches on My Knee: Should I Be Worried?
I’m a 16-year-old female with ADHD, for which I take Concerta on a daily basis, and I also regularly use omeprazole to manage my acid reflux. Five weeks ago, I underwent ACL surgery. Following the procedure, I developed an allergic reaction to the adhesives applied, but fortunately, the rash is beginning to subside. However, recently, some strange scratches have shown up on my uninjured knee. These marks emerged a few days ago and were initially quite faint. They aren’t itchy, I haven’t experienced any falls, and there’s no pain at all. Since my surgery on the other knee, I've been confined to bed quite a lot, so I doubt I’d have had the opportunity to cause scratches on my knee myself. Could this be a result of excessive use? For the past couple of months, I’ve had to put more weight on this leg, and I suspect it’s been overworked. A couple of days ago, while kneeling, I first noticed the scratches, and they’ve actually worsened since then. I would appreciate any insights! Also, I do have very sensitive skin, but I’ve never encountered anything like this before. To note, I’ve never been diagnosed with eczema or any other skin issues and have never visited a dermatologist, although I do have an appointment set for September.
Answers (1)
6/20/2025, 11:20:34 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with some unusual scratches on your knee, which could be concerning given your recent ACL surgery and skin sensitivity. The scratches you’re describing may not be serious, especially since they’re not painful or itchy, but it’s sensible to investigate their cause, particularly in light of your circumstances.
Explanation: The scratches could potentially be a result of a few factors, such as friction or pressure from activities on your knee, especially if you’ve been putting more weight on that leg. Since you’re experiencing recovery from surgery and have sensitive skin that can react differently, minor skin trauma could manifest in unusual ways. Additionally, spending more time in one position, such as lying down or kneeling, may contribute to pressure marks or scratches on your skin.
Next Steps:
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Observe the Symptoms: Keep an eye on the scratches. If they continue to worsen, change in appearance, or become painful or itchy, that would warrant closer attention.
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Skin Care: Consider applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to the area to help soothe the skin. Avoid any potential irritants, including harsh soaps or creams.
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Limit Friction: When kneeling or resting on your knee, use a cushion or cloth to reduce friction and pressure on the area.
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Note Changes: Document any changes over the next week—this includes size, color, or any new sensations like itching or pain. This information can be helpful during your dermatology appointment.
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Follow Up: If the scratches do not improve or you develop new symptoms (like swelling, redness, or increasing irritation), make it a priority to discuss these with your healthcare provider before your dermatology appointment.
Your awareness of your body and recent surgery will help you in managing changes. Remember to take care of your skin as you heal, and feel free to ask if you have further questions or need more assistance!
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