Signs of Potential Infection: Should I Be Concerned?
I’m a 19-year-old weighing 107 lbs and standing at 5’4". Recently, I've been dealing with several infected wounds on the deeper layers of my skin. Although they don’t appear particularly severe apart from some pus, I am somewhat anxious about other symptoms I experienced. Just yesterday, I noticed welts and intense itching that began on my head and radiated down to my neck, back, and feet. I took some Reactine, which alleviated the itching after about an hour. Additionally, that same morning, I experienced similar itching and welts on my chest. I don't have any known allergies and am uncertain what triggered this reaction, but I've heard that infections can sometimes be a cause. Currently, I have a mild fever of around 37.4°C (99.3°F) along with some muscle aches; however, I'm unsure if these symptoms are connected to the infections. Are these signs significant? Should I be observing any additional symptoms?
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 1:20:27 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of symptoms involving infected wounds, itching, welts, and a mild fever. While it’s good to hear that the Reactine helped alleviate your itching, the combination of symptoms you’ve described does warrant attention.
Explanation:
Your infected wounds can be a source of bacteria entering your body, potentially leading to further complications, especially if there are signs of infection such as pus and fever. The welts and intense itching you've also mentioned might suggest an allergic reaction or a condition like hives, particularly if they appeared suddenly and are associated with itching. Muscle aches can accompany infections but can also be linked to allergic responses.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your symptoms over the next few days. Look for any increase in severity such as:
- The spread or worsening of the infected wounds.
- New symptoms like increased fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F), excessive fatigue, or swelling in the affected areas.
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Wound Care: Maintain proper hygiene with your infected wounds. Clean them gently with soap and water, and cover them to prevent further infection. If the pus increases, they become redder, or you notice swelling around the wounds, it's important to seek care.
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Manage Itching and Welts: Continue using antihistamines like Reactine as needed for itching. If the itching and welts return or if you develop more widespread symptoms (such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face), this would be a reason to seek medical evaluation quickly.
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Stay Hydrated and Rested: Make sure you drink plenty of fluids and get adequate rest, as this helps your body fight potential infections.
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Possible Allergens: Consider any changes in your environment, skincare products, or dietary habits that might have triggered your symptoms. Avoid known irritants or allergens when possible.
If your symptoms continue to worsen or if new, concerning symptoms develop, it may be crucial to seek immediate medical advice to rule out any serious complications or to receive appropriate treatment. Remember, prioritizing your health is the most important step.
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