Cellulitis: Healing Tips for Foot Wounds - Surgery

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Cellulitis, or蜂窩組織炎, is a common bacterial skin infection that can occur when bacteria enter through a break in the skin, such as a cut, scrape, or even a blister. In your case, it seems that the initial condition of athlete's foot (香港腳) led to a secondary bacterial infection, resulting in cellulitis. The symptoms you describe, including persistent redness, swelling, and discharge from the wound, indicate that the infection may not be fully resolved.


Understanding Your Condition
The yellow-green discharge you observe is often a sign of infection, and while some drainage can be normal, especially in the early stages of healing, persistent or worsening discharge is concerning. The surrounding redness and swelling suggest that the body is still fighting the infection. The fact that the wound has not healed after two months of antibiotic treatment indicates that either the infection is resistant to the antibiotics being used, or there may be other underlying issues affecting healing.


Treatment and Management
1. Wound Care:
- Cleaning: It's good that you are cleaning the wound with saline solution. However, ensure that you are using sterile saline, as tap water can introduce bacteria. After cleaning, gently pat the area dry with a clean cloth.

- Dressing: After cleaning, apply a sterile dressing to protect the wound from further irritation and contamination. Change the dressing regularly, especially if it becomes wet or soiled.

- Avoid Irritants: Avoid using vinegar or other acidic solutions on the wound, as they can irritate the skin and delay healing.

2. Antibiotic Therapy:
- If you have been on antibiotics for two months without improvement, it may be time to revisit your healthcare provider. They might consider changing your antibiotic to one that is more effective against the specific bacteria causing your infection. A culture of the wound may be necessary to identify the bacteria and determine the appropriate antibiotic.

3. Monitoring for Complications:
- Keep an eye on the wound for signs of worsening infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

4. Nutritional Support:
- Nutrition plays a vital role in wound healing. Foods rich in protein (like lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes) are essential for tissue repair. Additionally, vitamins A and C, found in fruits and vegetables, are crucial for skin health and immune function. Zinc, found in nuts and seeds, also supports healing.

5. Rest and Elevation:
- Elevating the affected foot can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow to the area, which is beneficial for healing. Avoid putting weight on the affected foot as much as possible until the infection is resolved.

6. Follow-Up Care:
- Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential. They can assess the wound's healing progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.


Conclusion
In summary, managing cellulitis and promoting wound healing requires a combination of proper wound care, appropriate antibiotic therapy, nutritional support, and regular monitoring. If your condition does not improve or worsens, do not hesitate to seek further medical evaluation. Healing can sometimes take longer than expected, especially if there are complicating factors, but with the right approach, you can achieve recovery.