Concern Over Mother's Armpit Sore
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for help regarding my mother, who is 55 years old and has severe obesity, weighing between 150 and 170 kilograms. She spends most of her time in her room and rarely leaves her bed except for necessities like showering or grabbing food from the refrigerator. Her weight and lifestyle have led to numerous health complications, but she struggles with anxiety that prevents her from seeking help. Recently, she developed a significant sore under her armpit, and since she refuses to visit a healthcare professional, I'm seeking advice here. Any insights would be incredibly valuable, as she is experiencing considerable discomfort. I’m not sure how to manage the pain apart from keeping the area clean and dry. Moreover, she has started using a course of antibiotics from an old prescription that I didn’t take, hoping it might provide some relief. Thank you for any guidance you can offer!
Answers (1)
8/15/2025, 11:51:26 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like your mother is experiencing significant discomfort with the sore under her armpit, especially given her overall health status. It's essential to address both her immediate concerns and her broader wellness.
Key Points:
- Sore Management: Keeping the area clean and dry is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Potential Infection Concern: Using old antibiotics without appropriate guidance may not be effective and could lead to resistance or complications.
- Underlying Factors: Her weight and lifestyle may contribute to the sore, and these factors need consideration in managing her overall health.
Explanation:
Armpit sores can develop for various reasons, including friction, infections, or skin conditions like intertrigo, which is common in individuals with obesity due to skin-on-skin contact. Given your mother's anxiety and reluctance to seek help, it's understandable that managing this at home feels necessary.
Using leftover antibiotics is not recommended because:
- The specific source of the sore may not be bacterial.
- Unnecessarily using antibiotics can lead to complications and resistance.
- It's essential to ensure the correct type of medication is being used for the specific issue.
Next Steps:
-
Sore Care:
- Gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water daily.
- Pat the area dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate the skin further.
- Keep the area well-ventilated, perhaps using loose clothing.
-
Moisture Control:
- Consider using absorbent powders or barrier creams (like zinc oxide) to reduce friction and moisture if the area remains prone to wetness or irritation.
-
Monitor for Infections:
- Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s crucial to seek professional care.
-
Addressing Anxiety and Lifestyle:
- Encourage small, manageable changes in her daily routine that might help her feel more comfortable (e.g., gentle stretching or short walks if she can).
- Consider gently discussing how addressing her health can lead to better outcomes and might even reduce anxiety. Finding a supportive environment or joining a group may help her feel less isolated.
-
Support and Reassurance:
- It’s important to keep open lines of communication, letting her know you’re there for support. Sometimes having a loved one go with her to a healthcare appointment can ease anxiety.
If the sore doesn’t improve or worsens, it may eventually be necessary to revisit the idea of professional help. Keeping the focus on her comfort and mental health will be key in encouraging her to get the support she needs. Let me know if you need further assistance!
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