Escalating Concerns Over Infection and Treatment Challenges
On November 29th, I, a 29-year-old female, underwent drainage of an abscess located on my shin due to an infection at an Urgent Care facility. Unfortunately, the wound has not shown improvement; rather, the infection has returned. Initially, the abscess was about the size of a quarter, but it has since expanded to around 4-5 inches in diameter, accompanied by notable swelling and redness in the area. Throughout this ordeal, I have been prescribed multiple antibiotics: Cephalexin, Doxycycline, and currently, Amoxicillin. However, I have a strong suspicion that Amoxicillin will also prove ineffective in resolving the infection. I am currently awaiting approval for a referral to see a wound specialist or a general surgeon, who might consider reopening the wound for a better assessment. Thus far, my follow-ups have been limited to visits at Urgent Care, and just yesterday, I consulted with my primary care physician after noticing that the wound had bled through my gauze during the night. Additionally, I have rheumatoid arthritis and had been receiving Biologics treatment, but I paused that regimen on December 13th to enhance my immune function, a decision coordinated with my rheumatologist’s guidance. I'm wondering if there are further steps I should consider taking or if I need to elevate the urgency of my situation. The thought of managing an open wound and persistent infection for over two weeks feels overwhelming to me.
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 7:20:38 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear you're dealing with such a challenging situation. It sounds like you're experiencing a significant infection that hasn't improved even after treatment, which can understandably be quite overwhelming. Here’s what to consider regarding your condition and how to proceed:
Main Points:
- The abscess enlarging and being resistant to antibiotics warrants further assessment.
- Given your background of rheumatoid arthritis and recent pauses in treatment, your immune function may indeed be affected.
- Timely action is crucial to facilitate the healing process.
Explanation:
An abscess that has increased in size and continues to show signs of infection (such as swelling, redness, and bleeding) needs prompt attention. Antibiotics can often help, but if the bacteria are resistant or if there’s retained infected material (like pus), they may not be effective in healing. Moreover, your autoimmune condition and treatment decisions can influence how well your body responds to infections.
Next Steps:
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Follow Up on Specialist Referral:
- It is essential to pursue that referral to a wound specialist or surgeon. If not received swiftly, do not hesitate to request updates directly from your primary care doctor’s office.
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Monitor Your Symptoms Closely:
- Keep a detailed log of any changes in size, color, or severity of the wound, including any new symptoms like fever, increased pain, or drainage. Share this information with your healthcare provider during your next visit.
-
Maintain Wound Care Practices:
- Keep the wound clean and properly dressed according to any guidelines from your healthcare provider. Change dressings frequently to prevent infection worsening.
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Consider Alternative Treatments:
- Discuss with your healthcare provider about possible alternative or stronger antibiotics, especially if there’s concern about bacteria that are resistant to commonly used ones.
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Rest and Immune Support:
- As you have paused your biologic medications, focus on getting adequate rest, eating a balanced diet, staying well-hydrated, and managing stress. These can help support your immune system during this difficult time.
When to Seek Immediate Attention:
- If you experience increased pain, widespread redness, fever, or any other symptoms that feel concerning (like a significant increase in drainage or pus), this may necessitate urgent medical evaluation.
You are taking all the right steps by seeking care and being proactive. Please remember that managing a wound and infection can take time, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Reach out for support during this time, both from healthcare providers and loved ones. Let me know if you have more questions or need further assistance!
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