Rug Burn: Concerns About Infection and Treatment Options
I’m a 32-year-old woman from Canada, standing at 5’6” and weighing 165 lbs. Fortunately, I do not have any significant health conditions or take medications. Recently, I sustained a painful rug burn on the outer side of my knee during my stay at a cottage on Friday night. Throughout the weekend, I enjoyed swimming in the lake. Now that it’s Monday, while the swelling has diminished, the area around the injury remains red and feels warm to the touch. I experience considerable pain, particularly a throbbing sensation when I walk. I applied some Polysporin today; aside from that, I’ve mostly let it be. Over the weekend, I didn’t use any treatment. I’m somewhat anxious about the redness and warmth, which have me concerned about a possible infection. If I continue applying Polysporin, will it help? Does this injury require further medical attention? In my area, there are no walk-in clinics available, and my family doctor won’t be free until August. Visiting the ER doesn’t feel warranted at this stage. What is your opinion on this situation?
Answers (1)
7/7/2025, 4:01:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a painful rug burn with signs that may suggest inflammation. Let's address your concerns about potential infection and treatment options.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms—redness, warmth, and pain—are common with skin injuries.
- These signs can indicate inflammation, but they don’t always mean an infection is present.
- Continuing with proper care and monitoring is key.
Explanation: Rug burns can be quite painful and may cause swelling and discoloration. The warmth and redness you describe are typical as your body responds to the injury. Since you’re also experiencing considerable pain, it’s important to treat the injury effectively while watching for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, pus, fever, or significant worsening of pain.
Polysporin is a topical antibiotic ointment designed to help prevent infection in minor cuts and scrapes. It can be beneficial in this type of injury, as it may promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
Next Steps:
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Continue using Polysporin: Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1-2 times daily. Make sure to clean the area gently with mild soap and water before each application.
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Monitor symptoms closely: Keep an eye on the injury for any signs of worsening. If it becomes significantly more painful, or if you notice increased redness, swelling, or discharge, it may indicate an infection.
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Rest and protect the area: Avoid activities that could further aggravate the injury, such as excessive movement or pressure on the knee.
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Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation. Follow the dosage instructions on the package.
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Keep an eye on your progress: If you don’t see improvement within a few days, or if symptoms worsen, consider seeking medical attention, even if just for a telehealth consultation.
If you have further questions or need more specifics on any of these steps, feel free to ask. Your health and comfort are important!
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