Managing Persistent Wound Issues: Tips for Healing and Care

Wound issues

The skin has been subjected to prolonged friction from pants, resulting in subcutaneous hematoma and acne.
There is a specific area that has not healed; the epidermis appears intact, but there is a sensation of a foreign body.
When squeezed, acne emerges along with bruising and a sandy wound measuring 0.4 cm in width and 0.2 cm in depth.
On the first day, a scab formed, but the foreign body sensation persisted, leading to the removal of the scab.
After squeezing again, acne reappeared, and the foreign body sensation was alleviated.
Currently, there is a layer of suspected serous fluid that appears white-yellow over the surface.
Should this be removed, or is it sufficient to apply medication? I have been using antibiotics and povidone-iodine.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/18

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

It is difficult to assess wound issues based solely on a textual description, as the specific location is unknown.
If there is sand present, it is unclear whether it is due to a previous injury.
The color and texture of the acne also need to be confirmed.
It is advisable to have a surgical physician examine the situation for a more accurate diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2023/05/18

More Info

Managing persistent wound issues can be quite challenging, especially when dealing with complications such as subcutaneous hematomas, persistent irritation, and the formation of pimples or other lesions in the affected area. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a wound that has not healed properly due to repeated friction from clothing, leading to ongoing irritation and the sensation of having something foreign in the area. Here are some tips for managing your wound and promoting healing:

1. Wound Cleaning and Care:
- Gentle Cleaning: It is essential to clean the wound gently with saline solution or mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin further.

- Avoid Picking: As tempting as it may be, avoid picking at scabs or squeezing any bumps that appear. This can introduce bacteria and lead to infection.

- Moisture Management: Keeping the wound moist can promote healing. You might consider using a hydrogel or a non-stick dressing that maintains moisture while protecting the area from friction.

2. Topical Treatments:
- Antibiotic Ointment: Continue applying a topical antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) to prevent infection. Ensure that the area is clean before application.

- Iodine Solution: Using a povidone-iodine solution can help disinfect the area, but be cautious not to overuse it as it can be drying. Use it sparingly and only when necessary.

- Hydrocolloid Dressings: These can be beneficial for wounds that are exuding fluid. They provide a moist environment and can help absorb excess fluid while protecting the wound.

3. Monitoring for Infection:
- Signs of Infection: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or increased pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

- Persistent Symptoms: If the sensation of a foreign body persists or worsens, or if the wound does not show signs of healing after a week or two, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

4. Avoiding Friction:
- Protective Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing to minimize friction against the wound. Consider using a soft bandage or dressing over the area to protect it from clothing.

- Padding: If the area is prone to friction, consider using padding or specialized dressings that can help cushion the wound.

5. Consulting a Healthcare Provider:
- Professional Evaluation: If the wound continues to be problematic, it may be necessary to consult a healthcare provider. They can assess for any underlying issues, such as foreign bodies or deeper tissue damage, and may recommend further treatment options, including possible debridement if necessary.

- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider can help ensure that the wound is healing properly and that any complications are addressed promptly.

Conclusion:
Wound care is a critical aspect of recovery, especially when dealing with persistent issues. By following these guidelines, you can help promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. Remember, if you have any concerns about your wound or if it does not improve, do not hesitate to seek professional medical advice. Healing takes time, and proper care is essential to ensure the best outcomes.

Similar Q&A

Managing Persistent Wound Healing Issues for Wheelchair Users

I am a spinal cord injury patient and due to mobility issues, I use a wheelchair. I have a wound on my buttocks that periodically reopens due to the scab breaking. After applying medication for a while, it heals, but once healed, it forms a scab again, which is very hard. Sometim...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
It is recommended that you consult a nearby dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Managing Recurring Skin Infections: Effective Care for Wound Healing

The wound has been experiencing recurrent folliculitis for the past five months, primarily due to frequent friction in that area, which has led to the repeated extraction of many comedones or sand-like substances. Most of the wound has healed, leaving only a superficial area meas...

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
This type of cyst has a membrane surrounding it, so it is recommended to perform a minor surgery nearby to remove the entire cyst along with the membrane. Otherwise, the wound is unlikely to heal properly.

Managing Persistent Pain After Leg Injury: Treatment and Specialist Guidance

I was injured in a car accident, and I have a deep wound on my left calf with a large affected area. The wound has healed for over six months, but recently I occasionally experience mild pain while walking. (The pain is not severe, but I am concerned about potential long-term eff...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
Due to the large and deep area of injury at that time, although the wound has healed, some superficial sensory nerves in the skin have been damaged to varying degrees, making recovery difficult. As a result, changes in weather (such as alternating temperatures and humidity) can e...

Understanding Non-Healing Surgical Wounds: Causes and Solutions

Due to persistent swelling and pain in the lymph nodes accompanied by abscesses, I was scheduled for surgical debridement (on both sides of my armpits). After the stitches were removed, one side healed, but the other side's wound has been inconsistent, not healing and still ...

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine
Hello, regarding your question, delayed wound healing should be monitored for any ongoing infection or inflammation, or whether there are any underlying chronic conditions affecting the healing process. However, it is difficult to confirm the situation without a personal examinat...