Wound Concern and Care Advice
I’m a 25-year-old who currently takes 100mg of Lamictal, 75mg of Zoloft, and 10mg of Adderall ER. I occasionally drink socially and regularly use THC in moderation. Recently, on July 19th, I wore some heeled sandals that caused significant damage to my feet while out with friends. I have been using adhesive bandages to cover the open wounds, but I’ve also spent some time barefoot in a shared space, as I teach martial arts. The sores on my big toes are quite painful and itchy; after removing the bandages I had on for about 24 hours, I noticed the covering on my right foot was discolored, showing a greenish tint. In 2019, I experienced a severe injury when I fell off a longboard, which led to open wounds and a subsequent MRSA diagnosis. I am aware that previous MRSA infections can increase the risk of recurrence. Recently, I observed what appear to be red streaks radiating from the wound. I’ve been maintaining cleanliness and changing the bandages when necessary due to my activity level. However, I haven’t applied Neosporin or any other disinfectants. I would appreciate guidance on whether any further actions are needed, aside from continuing my home care. Thank you for your assistance.
Answers (1)
7/23/2025, 3:50:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning symptoms related to your foot wounds, especially given your medical history with MRSA. I'll provide guidance on wound care and the next steps you should prioritize to promote healing and avoid complications.
Key Points
- You have open wounds that are painful, itchy, and showing signs of possible infection (green discoloration and red streaks).
- Your previous MRSA infection is relevant and necessitates cautious attention to these wounds.
Explanation
Injuries to the skin can sometimes become infected, especially if there are visible changes like discoloration or red streaks, which may indicate the infection is spreading. Given your history of MRSA, you want to be especially vigilant as you are at a higher risk for recurrent infections.
Next Steps
-
Clean the Wounds:
- Gently cleanse the sores with mild soap and water. Avoid scrubbing, as this can cause further irritation. Pat dry with a clean towel.
-
Apply an Antibiotic Ointment:
- After cleansing, consider applying an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment, like Neosporin. This can help prevent infection.
-
Dress the Wounds:
- Use a sterile bandage to cover the wounds. Change the bandage at least once a day, or more frequently if it becomes wet or soiled.
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Monitor for Signs of Infection:
- Keep an eye on any changes, particularly:
- Increasing redness
- Swelling or warmth around the wound
- Pus or unusual discharge
- Fever or chills
- Keep an eye on any changes, particularly:
-
Limit Exposure to Shared Spaces:
- Minimize going barefoot in shared spaces until the wounds are better healed to reduce infection risk.
-
Consider a Visit to a Healthcare Provider:
- Given your history of MRSA and the concerning symptoms, if the redness, pain, or swelling worsens, or if you notice any signs of systemic infection (like fever), it’s important to seek medical care promptly for possible oral antibiotics.
Taking these steps should help manage your wounds effectively. Please take care of yourself and reach out if you notice any significant changes in your symptoms.
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