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:
-
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.
-
Avoid Irritation: Try to wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent additional pressure and friction on your knee.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Related Questions
Unexpected Armpit Irritation This Morning Despite No Changes
Hello everyone, I genuinely appreciate you taking a moment to read this. This morning started off like any other for me. After completing my usual morning routine—brushing my teeth and taking my daily dose of Duoloxetine (20 mg twice daily)—I applied my deodorant, slipped on my T-shirt, and headed downstairs for breakfast. While I was finishing my meal, I began to feel some discomfort in my armpits. As I moved around, the irritation intensified significantly. Upon glancing in the mirror, I noticed the early signs of a light rash forming in the folds of my armpits. To remedy the situation, I decided to take a shower and opted for more comfortable, loose-fitting attire afterwards. At this point, my armpits are still quite irritated, though I’m not overly concerned. At worst, it seems I might need to switch my deodorant, clothing, or detergent brand. What puzzles me, however, is the fact that this irritation occurred simultaneously on both sides without any new factors influencing this sudden change. I've been wearing the same brand and type of t-shirt almost daily for three years now, and the deodorant stick I used has been a regular for about a week, while I’ve been using the same type of deodorant for five years. Similarly, I’ve stuck with Arm & Hammer laundry detergent for the last eight years. If only one side were affected, I might shrug it off, but the fact that both armpits are irritated at the same time has me curious about the underlying biological reasons. I would greatly value any insights you might have. Thank you immensely!
Increased Urination: Seeking Insights on a Mysterious Change
Over the past year, I’ve experienced a noticeable rise in my need to urinate, and I'm at a loss to explain it. The only symptom I have is this heightened urge; there’s no pain or any unusual signs like discoloration, strong smells, burning sensations, or bleeding. Each time I use the restroom, I feel completely empty. My drinking habits haven't altered, so this change is puzzling. In January, I consulted my doctor about this issue. They conducted tests to check for a urinary tract infection. Despite being uncertain about the cause of my symptoms, I was confident it wasn’t a UTI, and the results confirmed that. When I saw my doctor again during my physical in October, I raised my concerns about the frequent urination once more. Other than a slightly elevated glucose level of 101, all my lab results were normal. In previous years, my glucose levels ranged from 90 to 99. I insisted on undergoing a PSA blood test, even though my doctor mentioned that such testing is rarely done for men my age. Fortunately, the results were within the normal range, posing no issues. After being tested for a UTI, having the PSA exam, and undergoing comprehensive lab work during my physical, I still find myself without clear answers. However, the frequent urination continues. In the past, during a typical 9-hour work shift, I would usually go to the restroom once or twice. Now, it’s increased to 5-6 times, even though I’m not consuming excessive amounts of water. Previously, night trips to the bathroom were uncommon unless I drank a lot before bed. Now, I find myself waking up to use the restroom once or twice a night quite regularly. I’ve never consumed alcohol at all and have never smoked. The only supplement I take is a daily probiotic, which is nothing new for me. I’m curious if anyone else has any theories or suggestions for this situation. My family tends to brush it off as simply a part of aging, but I have my doubts about that.
Strategies to Mitigate the Risk of Aspiration in High-Risk Patients
### Can Fatal Aspiration Have Been Avoided in a Patient with TBI? **Patient Overview** **Age:** 76 **Gender:** Male **Primary Diagnosis:** Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), complicated by evolving intracranial hemorrhage and cerebral edema **Outcome:** Cardiac arrest attributed to suspected aspiration, leading to death despite multiple resuscitation attempts The patient had a notable cardiovascular history, including a stent placed five years earlier and bypass surgery performed seventeen years prior. ### Medical History Timeline **Initial Hospitalization (Day 1 to around Day 15):** - The patient was admitted after sustaining a fall resulting in TBI, alongside a minor initial brain bleed. - The condition of the brain bleed deteriorated further, causing cerebral edema and hemorrhagic contusions. - Neurological status showed variability; although the patient was intermittently disoriented and delirious, there were signs of improvement. - Additional complications included orthostatic hypotension, low sodium levels (hyponatremia), malnutrition, and notable weight loss. - Subsequently transferred to a rehabilitation center to initiate recovery efforts. **Second Hospitalization (approximately Day 16–20):** - Shortly after entering rehabilitation, a new CT scan indicated an escalation in cerebral edema and hemorrhagic contusions. - Plans were implemented to administer hypertonic saline to enhance sodium levels and facilitate re-hospitalization. - The swallowing assessment indicated the patient could consume bite-sized foods; however, he exhibited a poor appetite and reluctance to hydrate. - Persistent disorientation remained, although he occasionally recognized his surroundings (hospital); there was a strong desire to leave the hospital, and he appeared to improve. **Day Prior to Demise (approximately Day 19):** - Family members were involved in oral feeding, though the patient continued to have a poor appetite and lost weight despite encouragement to eat more. - Following a somewhat forceful feeding effort, the patient vomited; later attempts with applesauce also resulted in vomiting. - **Sodium levels returned to normal, and hypertonic saline administration was halted.** - Vomiting persisted throughout the night, even after receiving anti-nausea medication and hydration, ultimately leading to an NPO (nothing by mouth) status being initiated. - Observations included complaints of shortness of breath, diminished responsiveness, and reduced verbal communication. - An EKG and CT scan were conducted in the evening: brain injury remained stable but still indicated edema; EKG results were normal. - Physical examination yielded unremarkable results, with a soft abdomen and stable vital signs; bowel movements were regular. Aspiration was not initially suspected, though a gastrointestinal ailment was considered. - **During this time, no significant escalation in care or respiratory examination occurred. The patient remained on a general monitoring floor.** **Day of Demise (approx. Day 20):** - The patient vomited early that morning, leading to observed low oxygen saturation and cyanosis by the one-to-one aide; initially thought to be a monitor error until another episode of vomiting occurred, resulting in cardiac arrest. - CPR was administered for 22 minutes, achieving return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and correcting electrolyte imbalances. - There were multiple arrests thereafter, and the decision was made to permit a natural death. - Vomitus was noted during resuscitation efforts — the official cause of death was ascribed to aspiration. Despite uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of death, the attending physician advised against an autopsy. **Questions for Consideration:** - Was the forceful feeding a contributing factor to the initial episode of vomiting? - Could healthcare professionals have taken measures to avert the fatal aspiration incident? - Were there any alternative actions that might have made a difference? It is deeply unsettling, especially since he was on the path to recovery and was anticipated to return to rehabilitation once his sodium levels stabilized (which they did, just a day before he passed away).
Understanding Elevated Heart Rate and Difficulty Breathing: Insights Needed
I’m a 40-year-old Caucasian woman residing in the UK, standing at 168 cm tall and weighing 67 kg. I am definitely not expecting a child, am a non-smoker, consume alcohol only on rare occasions, and lead a moderately active lifestyle with regular cycling and walking. My current medications include Sertraline, which has recently been increased from 100 mg to 150 mg over the past month; I had been at the lower dose for six years. Additionally, I've started taking magnesium and vitamin D supplements. Regarding my health history, I've dealt with mild lower back pain for over seven years and suffer from significant anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Aside from these issues, I have no notable medical problems. On my father's side, there is a history of cancer, including prostate and breast cancers. I have tested negative for BRCA and related mutations, and last year I underwent my first mammogram as part of an early detection program due to my family history, which returned normal results. I believe I might be entering perimenopause as evidenced by some symptoms such as shorter menstrual cycles, itchy vulvar skin, and since my mother experienced menopause at 45, I suspect I may be having similar changes. Currently, I have been feeling a sensation of "air hunger," as if I'm unable to fully inhale, paired with an increased heart rate, resting around 80 beats per minute, over the last four days. Prior to this, I experienced mild discomfort in my upper back and shoulders along with tension headaches that have since subsided. Yesterday I sought treatment at the A&E due to my breathing difficulties and heart palpitations. My blood oxygen saturation was noted to be around 96-97%, and my blood pressure remained normal. Upon admission, my heart rate was initially 130 beats per minute, later dropping to 107. I underwent an EKG, which indicated a normal rhythm but was fast, and subsequent blood tests showed results mostly within acceptable ranges except for a low APTT and APTT ratio, and a slightly elevated MCHC. The D-dimer test returned negative, and I’ll provide a detailed account of my blood results in a comment shortly. No chest X-ray was performed; however, a physician assessed my breathing and back with a stethoscope, concluding that there were no abnormal sounds detected. The normal blood test results suggest that anemia, which could explain my symptoms, is not an issue. I do recognize that anxiety and panic can present with similar symptoms, but this current episode feels different to me, lasting longer than typical and lacking a clear emotional or psychological trigger. I am particularly worried about the implications of having a low APTT, which I understand can point to bleeding disorders or malignancies. Other conditions influencing APTT don't seem relevant to my situation as far as I'm aware. I also fear the possibility of a pleural effusion potentially linked to some form of cancer due to my symptoms of breathing difficulties and elevated heart rate. Notably, I do not have a cough or experience hemoptysis, nor do I have any chest pain, although I occasionally sense a mild pressure or tightness in the area. Would it be prudent for me to pursue specific follow-up actions? Is it advisable to wait and see if my breathing and heart rate issues improve on their own?
Managing Recurring Strep Throat with Allergies and Family Concerns During Breastfeeding
**Demographic Information:** - **Age**: 38 - **Gender**: Female - **Height**: 5’2” - **Weight**: 125 lbs - **Ethnicity**: White/Non-Hispanic - **Duration of Symptoms**: Recurrent for over 20 days - **Location**: United States - **Other Health Concerns**: Currently breastfeeding - **Medications**: None at present I am a breastfeeding mother with a three-month-old infant. Approximately two months into my pregnancy, I contracted strep throat, although the source of infection remains unclear. I was treated with amoxicillin but developed a severe itching rash on my hands and feet after eight days of medication, though the rash on my feet was not visible. I completed the antibiotic regimen despite this reaction. Interestingly, my husband and our seven-year-old son did not exhibit any symptoms of strep throat during that time. Fast forward to November 24, when my husband experienced an extremely sore throat accompanied by a debilitating headache that made him vomit. By November 26, he tested positive for strep throat and was prescribed a Z-pack, which he finished. The following day, I began experiencing a sore throat that worsened rapidly overnight. After visiting the doctor, I too tested positive for strep and was prescribed Cephalexin that day. Due to my focus on my baby, I inadvertently skipped a few doses throughout the treatment period, taking approximately 12 days to finish the antibiotics instead of the usual course. Fortunately, neither of our children contracted the infection during this time. However, about 5-6 days post-treatment, I started to feel the same symptoms I had experienced on November 27, culminating in difficulty swallowing. I utilized a COVID/Flu test last night, and the results were negative. Today, I plan to visit a CVS MinuteClinic for a rapid strep test. Should I test positive again, I need guidance on what antibiotic I can safely take while breastfeeding. I have a mild allergy to penicillin but tolerate Cephalexin without issues, having just recently completed that course. I am apprehensive about trying Clindamycin, given my long history of gastrointestinal sensitivities and food intolerances. Managing my health is critical, especially with a young infant in tow, and I also wish to prevent any potential complications for my husband and older son. In addition, if my test returns positive, should my husband and older son be tested as well? I would appreciate any advice on how to break this cycle of repeat infections. We even replaced toothbrushes and toothpaste shortly after starting antibiotics last time. Thank you very much for your assistance!