Is My Child's Knee Infection Improving?
I have a two-year-old son who weighs 50 pounds, and he absolutely detests taking his antibiotics; he keeps spitting them out. We're trying our best, but it's quite challenging. Could anyone help me assess the situation by comparing some recent images? From what I can see, the redness appears to be diminishing, but the area seems to be more elevated, and there is an increase in pus. It has only been two days since we started the antibiotics.
Answers (1)
8/27/2025, 6:42:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your son's knee infection, especially when he's reluctant to take his antibiotics. Here’s a summary of the situation and some guidance on how to assess his recovery.
Main Points:
- Initial improvement in redness is a positive sign.
- Elevation and increased pus could indicate that the infection may still be active.
- Monitoring symptoms and ensuring proper antibiotic intake is crucial.
Explanation: Infection recovery can vary, especially in young children. While it’s encouraging that the redness is diminishing, the additional elevation and pus suggest that the infection might not be fully resolved yet. This can happen, especially in the first few days of treatment. However, it's critical to ensure the antibiotics are taken as prescribed to combat the infection effectively.
Next Steps:
-
Encourage Antibiotic Compliance: Try to make administering the antibiotics easier. You might mix the medicine with a small amount of sweetened food or drink (if allowed), or use a syringe for direct administration to minimize resistance.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your son's knee. Note any changes in swelling, redness, or drainage. If pus continues to increase or if he develops fever, increased pain, or the redness spreads, these are signs that you should take further steps.
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Warm Compresses: Apply a warm (not hot) compress to the area for about 10-15 minutes, a few times a day. This can help reduce discomfort and may support healing.
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Keep the Area Clean: Ensure the knee is kept clean and dry. If any pus drains, gently clean the area with mild soap and water.
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Reassess in a Few Days: Since it's only been two days, give the antibiotics a little more time (4-7 days) to work, but don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if symptoms worsen or don’t improve.
Your child’s health is paramount, and staying vigilant can help ensure the infection is treated effectively. Don’t hesitate to reach out for further support or clarification on any changes you observe.
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