Ear Lobe Pimples: Blood Flow, Healing, and Treatment

Please ask your question, doctor?

Hello Doctor, I have a deep pimple on my left earlobe.
I previously visited a dermatologist who prescribed some medication.
Today, I felt it had matured, so I squeezed it out, and there was a bit of blood along with some yellowish-white substance that I’m not sure about.
I would like to ask if blood should flow quickly like water; mine seemed to flow out a bit like nasal mucus and then stopped, and it feels like it might scab over if left for a while.
When I rinsed the wound, it had already started to coagulate, which was only about 30 seconds to a minute after the squeezing.
Is this coagulation speed normal, or is it because the wound is small? I would like to know if this is normal and if coagulating too quickly could indicate any underlying health issues.
Or could it be due to the presence of some debris, like the yellowish-white substance that resembles a mixture of comedonal material? My brother said it should be normal, but I’m not sure if this is the case.
My previous blood tests showed no abnormalities, including platelet counts.
Additionally, can I apply a product containing fusidic acid, as the label only mentions it for wounds? Thank you for your response.

Mei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/21

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, what we refer to as acne is actually folliculitis, which consists of secretions from the hair follicles.
If you squeeze it forcefully, it can cause some small blood vessels to rupture, resulting in a little bleeding.
However, since these are just tiny capillaries, the coagulation happens very quickly.
Therefore, the phenomenon you described is a normal physiological response and does not require concern.
Fusidic acid is an antibiotic with antibacterial effects that can be used for acne.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/05/21

More Info

When dealing with a pimple on the earlobe that has bled and released a yellowish-white substance, it’s important to understand the nature of the wound and the healing process. The earlobe is a sensitive area, and any trauma or infection can lead to localized inflammation, which may manifest as a pimple or cyst.
Firstly, the bleeding you experienced after squeezing the pimple is not uncommon. Blood can flow at different rates depending on several factors, including the size of the blood vessels involved and the nature of the injury. In the case of a small pimple, the bleeding may be minimal and could appear thicker or more viscous, resembling mucus, especially if it mixes with pus or sebum (the oily substance produced by skin glands). This is generally normal and can happen when the pimple is manipulated, causing minor trauma to the surrounding tissue.

The presence of yellowish-white material suggests that there may have been some pus, which is a common sign of infection. Pus is typically a mixture of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris, and its presence indicates that the body is responding to an infection. If the pimple was indeed a cyst or an infected follicle, it is not unusual for it to produce such discharge.

Regarding the clotting process, it is normal for small wounds to clot quickly, often within seconds to minutes. The speed of clotting can vary based on individual factors such as overall health, hydration, and the presence of any clotting disorders. Since you mentioned that your previous blood tests, including platelet counts, were normal, it is unlikely that you have a clotting disorder. The quick clotting you observed is likely due to the small size of the wound.

As for the use of fusidic acid, which is an antibiotic cream, it can be appropriate for treating minor skin infections. However, it is essential to ensure that the wound is clean before applying any topical medication. Gently wash the area with mild soap and water, pat it dry, and then apply the fusidic acid as directed. Avoid squeezing or picking at the pimple again, as this can exacerbate the infection and lead to further complications.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing seem to be within the realm of normal for a minor skin infection or irritation. However, if you notice increasing redness, swelling, pain, or if the discharge continues or worsens, it is advisable to seek further medical attention. A healthcare professional can provide a more thorough examination and may prescribe oral antibiotics if the infection appears to be spreading or not responding to topical treatment.
In conclusion, while your current situation appears manageable, monitoring the healing process and maintaining proper hygiene will be crucial. If you have any concerns about the healing or if new symptoms arise, do not hesitate to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for further evaluation.

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