Variable Redness Around Recent Injury
46-year-old female, weighing 140 lbs, diagnosed with EDS and POTS, experiencing perimenopause, currently on low-dose birth control, refraining from alcohol consumption, uses medical marijuana. On Friday evening, while preparing an old area rug for disposal, I accidentally scraped my ankle/shin with a utility knife. The blade was freshly changed, resulting in a clean cut approximately half an inch in length. I rinsed the cut with water, treated it with hydrogen peroxide (as it was my only option aside from scented soap), applied polysporin, and sealed it with a bandaid, then resumed my activities. By Saturday morning, my ankle felt somewhat tight, exhibited minor swelling, and exhibited an emerging red spot that progressively intensifying throughout the day. To be cautious, I planned to visit urgent care if the condition remained unchanged or worsened by morning. However, upon awakening on Sunday, I noticed noticeable improvement; most of the redness had subsided, swelling and stiffness had diminished, so I opted against a medical visit. Later that evening around 5 PM, when I went to redress the wound, I discovered that the redness had reappeared and had increased in size. The area adjacent to the cut is somewhat tender to touch, but I am not experiencing any significant pain, discharge, or unusual odor; it doesn’t feel notably warm, perhaps just slightly. I have noticed occasional itchiness but it is not persistent. Upon inspection, the cut appears to be deeper than originally assessed, potentially requiring stitches. Additionally, my air conditioning is malfunctioning, leaving my home at approximately 82 degrees, which may contribute to the situation.
Answers (1)
7/6/2025, 11:20:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like your injury has undergone some fluctuations in healing, which can be common, especially given your medical history of EDS and POTS. Initially, the swelling and redness are likely part of the body's natural reaction to an injury, but since you're observing some variable changes, it's important to monitor the healing process closely.
Explanation
The redness around a cut can be a sign of normal healing, irritation, or potential infection, especially if it fluctuates. While it's a good sign that you noticed improvement initially, the return of redness and tenderness might warrant further attention. A few factors could be at play, including the environment (like your home's temperature) and the depth of the cut, potentially leading to delayed healing.
Next Steps
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Continue Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the redness, swelling, and any changes in the wound area. Look for worsening symptoms like increasing tenderness, warmth, or the appearance of pus, as these can indicate an infection.
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Wound Care:
- Keep the cut clean and covered to protect it from irritation.
- Change the dressing daily and observe for any signs of infection.
- Avoid using hydrogen peroxide repeatedly since it can irritate the tissue; consider using mild soap and water instead for cleaning.
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Skin Soothing: If you experience itchiness, apply a hypoallergenic ointment or moisturizer around the area—not directly on the cut—if there's no broken skin. This can help reduce irritation.
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Temperature Control: Since the temperature in your home is higher than usual, consider ways to cool down your environment if you are feeling uncomfortable. Excessive heat can exacerbate swelling and discomfort.
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Assessment of Depth: If the wound continues to appear deeper or if you're concerned it may require stitches, consider seeking medical advice soon. It's essential to ensure the cut is healing properly to prevent complications.
If there is no noticeable improvement or if you develop new concerning symptoms, it may be prudent to consult a healthcare provider to evaluate the injury more thoroughly. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to wounds, especially if there are underlying health considerations.
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