Issues with My Left Knee: Pain and Swelling
Hi there, I’m a 16-year-old male, and I've been dealing with discomfort in a small area on my left knee for about a week now. Initially, it was just a minor scab, roughly the size of a pen tip. I didn't think much of it, but things have escalated since the evening before last. The swelling has noticeably increased, making it significantly larger than my other knee, particularly at the top. While taking a shower yesterday, I noticed some pus leaking from the little opening where the scab used to be, and today I observed a hard, yellow substance emerging from it. The pain has intensified; yesterday I experienced discomfort primarily while bending my knee, but today it hurts even when I'm at rest. It's particularly painful when I attempt to place my foot flat on the ground and stand up straight, which has led to me limping and having difficulty walking. Moreover, the skin around the affected area has become extremely sensitive. I applied a heat compress yesterday to help with the pain, but even mild warmth felt almost like a burn. Now, any contact from my shorts is quite painful too. Currently, I don’t have a fever or any other related symptoms. What might be going on with my knee, and what steps should I take next? My mother mentioned she would schedule a doctor's appointment for me in a couple of days if I don’t see any improvement.
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 12:20:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort with your left knee, which has developed from a small scab into a swollen, painful area with signs of infection. Here’s a breakdown of what might be happening and some important steps you can take:
Main Points:
You may have an infection, possibly an abscess, in the area where the scab was. This can happen following a minor injury or break in the skin. Given your symptoms—swelling, pain, pus, and heightened sensitivity—it's important to take proactive steps.
Explanation:
The initial small scab may have been a minor injury that became infected. Infections can lead to pus formation, increased swelling, and pain, especially when the body is trying to fight it off. The fact that you're feeling pain even at rest and that the area is sensitive indicates that this situation needs careful attention.
Next Steps:
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Keep the Area Clean: Gently wash the affected area with mild soap and water twice daily. Avoid any harsh scrubs that could irritate it further.
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Avoid Irritation: Try to wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent additional pressure and friction on your knee.
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Manage Pain and Swelling: While heat can help some types of pain, in this case, ice may be a better option. Apply a clean, wrapped ice pack to your knee for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and numb pain.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the swelling, pain level, and any changes in color or odor of the discharge. If you develop a fever or if the area becomes hotter, this could indicate worsening infection.
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Stay Off Your Knee: Limit activities that strain your knee, such as walking or standing for long periods. If you need to walk, use supportive footwear.
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Prepare for Medical Attention: If you notice no improvement within the next 24-48 hours, or if your symptoms worsen (more swelling, increased pain, or developing fever), be ready to visit a healthcare provider sooner. Evaluating the infection may require professional treatment, possibly including drainage or antibiotics.
It's great that your mother is planning on scheduling a doctor's appointment. Make sure to share all your symptoms and changes with her and the doctor to get the best care possible. Take care of yourself, and focus on these manageable steps until you receive professional medical advice.
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