Persistent Swelling and Discharge from Leg Wound: What to Do?

Q: Persistent Swelling and Discharge from Leg Wound: What to Do?

Dear readers： 1. If an accident causes skin damage to the body or limbs, or if there is contact with dirty water or soil, it is recommended to receive a dose of the tetanus vaccine. 2. After receiving the tetanus vaccine, proper wound care should still be perf

The foot has an injury, and the wound is continuously swelling and oozing?

Hello, a few weeks ago my dad stepped into a ditch and got a cut on his left thigh from the ditch cover.
At that moment, he didn't get a tetanus shot, but after a few days and with my family's persuasion, he went to the health center for the injection.
However, the wound started to swell afterward, so he went to see a surgeon.
The doctor made an incision in his leg to allow the fluid to drain out.
A friend of his recommended a type of ointment, claiming it would help, but I noticed it didn't have any health department approval or instructions.
I told my dad that this was not a good idea, but he didn't listen.
Now, he has to change the dressing three times a day because the wound keeps oozing, and his left thigh is still very swollen with red skin.

Jia Jia, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/01/12

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

Dear readers:
1.
If an accident causes skin damage to the body or limbs, or if there is contact with dirty water or soil, it is recommended to receive a dose of the tetanus vaccine.

2.
After receiving the tetanus vaccine, proper wound care should still be performed.
It is best to visit a nearby clinic or hospital for an evaluation to determine if further treatment is necessary.

3.
While home remedies may be convenient, they can sometimes lead to misjudgment and delay in treatment.
It is advisable to seek comprehensive consultation and treatment at a licensed medical facility.

Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2014/01/12

More Info

When dealing with persistent swelling and discharge from a leg wound, it is crucial to take immediate and appropriate action to prevent complications such as infection or delayed healing. Based on the situation you've described regarding your father's injury, here are some steps and considerations to address the issue effectively.

Immediate Actions:
1. Seek Medical Attention: Given that your father has a wound that is not healing properly, with ongoing swelling and discharge, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can assess the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus, and may prescribe antibiotics if necessary.

2. Wound Care: Proper wound care is vital. Ensure that the wound is cleaned gently with saline or clean water before applying a new dressing. It’s important to use sterile gauze and change the dressing regularly to keep the area clean and dry. If the wound is producing a lot of discharge, it may require more frequent dressing changes.

3. Avoid Unverified Treatments: It’s concerning that your father is using a medication or ointment that lacks proper labeling and instructions. Unverified treatments can lead to adverse reactions or worsen the condition. Encourage him to stop using this product and to rely on treatments recommended by healthcare professionals.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the wound for any changes. If the swelling increases, the discharge becomes foul-smelling, or if your father experiences fever or increased pain, these could be signs of infection that require urgent medical intervention.

Understanding the Condition:
- Infection Risk: Since your father did not receive a tetanus shot immediately after the injury, there is a risk of tetanus, especially if the wound is deep or contaminated. It’s good that he received the shot later, but it’s essential to ensure that he is up to date on his vaccinations.

- Swelling and Discharge: Swelling can occur due to inflammation, which is a natural response to injury. However, persistent swelling, especially when accompanied by discharge, suggests that the body is trying to fight an infection or that there is fluid accumulation (such as seroma or hematoma).
- Healing Process: The healing process can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the presence of infection, and the individual's overall health. It’s important to follow up with healthcare providers to ensure that the wound is healing properly.

Long-Term Considerations:
- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor the healing process. They may recommend further interventions, such as drainage if there is a significant accumulation of fluid or additional treatments if an infection is confirmed.

- Signs of Complications: Educate your father and family members about the signs of complications that require immediate medical attention, such as increased pain, spreading redness, fever, or any unusual changes in the wound.

- Lifestyle Adjustments: Encourage your father to maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support healing. Adequate hydration and rest are also important for recovery.

In conclusion, while it is understandable that your father may want to expedite healing with home remedies or unverified treatments, it is crucial to prioritize professional medical advice and care. Persistent swelling and discharge from a wound are serious concerns that should not be overlooked. Prompt and appropriate medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications.

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