Concern Regarding Infected Toe and Hives
I’m an 18-year-old female and have been grappling with a severely infected toe for nearly two weeks. Unfortunately, I'm unable to visit a doctor for the next few days since I'm away on vacation. Just before I went to sleep last night, I noticed hives appearing all over my body, and now I can't seem to stop itching on my stomach, legs, and arms. I’ve found online searches to be quite unhelpful, so I thought I’d reach out to the Reddit community for advice before heading to bed, worried that it might be my last chance to get some guidance.
Answers (1)
8/27/2025, 12:11:28 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with two concerning issues: a severely infected toe and the sudden appearance of hives. Managing both can be challenging, especially while you're away on vacation. Here’s a structured approach to address your concerns:
Main Points:
- Infected Toe Management: Focus on keeping the infection under control until you can see a healthcare professional.
- Hives Relief: Address the itching and possible allergic response to prevent worsening symptoms.
Explanation:
- Infected Toe: A toe infection can lead to pain, swelling, and sometimes drainage of pus. Given that it has persisted for two weeks, it’s crucial to keep it clean and monitor for any signs of worsening (like increased redness, swelling, or fever).
- Hives: The sudden appearance of hives may relate to an allergic reaction, stress, or other triggers. They can be very itchy and uncomfortable.
Next Steps:
For the Infected Toe:
- Clean the Toe: Gently wash the area with mild soap and water daily. Avoid soaking in water for long periods.
- Use a Bandage: Cover the toe with a sterile bandage to protect it from dirt and further irritation.
- Elevate if Swollen: Try to keep the foot elevated when resting to reduce swelling.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the infection. If you notice it doesn’t improve or worsens, prioritize seeing a doctor when possible.
For the Hives:
- Calm the Itch: Take an over-the-counter antihistamine (like cetirizine or diphenhydramine) to help alleviate itching—follow the dosage instructions on the packaging carefully.
- Cool Compress: Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas for temporary relief from itching and irritation.
- Avoid Triggers: Try to identify any recent foods, medications, or changes in your environment that might have caused the hives and avoid them.
Final Note:
While you’re managing these symptoms on vacation, stay aware of any new or worsening symptoms. If the hives become severe (such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face/lips) or the toe infection appears to worsen, seek medical help immediately.
Take care, and make sure to reach out to a healthcare provider as soon as you can. Your health and comfort are important!
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