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Suggest Treatment For Cellulitis On The Elbow
Question: My wife has cellulitis on the elbow. She's been to the hospital and sent home to complete the course of antibiotics. The sores on her elbow are oozing some blood and liquid. The discharge is increasing and getting on the sheets (she can't get up) The question is should the sores be dressed or anything else to keep the discharge from getting on the sheets?
Brief Answer:
Sores should be kept clean & repeated change of bedding or dressing needed
Detailed Answer:
Hi! Welcome to health care magic! Thanks for sharing your concerns with us. We will try to help you in best way possible. First of all, it is sad to know what your wife had gone through.
Based on the history you have shared, the ooze is good as it can lead to decompression of the cellulitis and underlying infection. You just need to make sure to keep the wounds clean and infection free as it may further contract some infection and may complicate recovery.
Pressure dressings may not be needed however covering the wound loosely and repeatedly changing the soaked clothing or bedding around it is a must. Avoiding complete exposure to air may lead to anaerobic bacterial infections which may also complicate healing.
Meanhwile continue antibiotics and if needed OTC analgesics or anti inflammatory drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Topical antibiotics like fucidic acid may also be considered.
Wishing her a speedy recovery. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Regards.
Sores should be kept clean & repeated change of bedding or dressing needed
Detailed Answer:
Hi! Welcome to health care magic! Thanks for sharing your concerns with us. We will try to help you in best way possible. First of all, it is sad to know what your wife had gone through.
Based on the history you have shared, the ooze is good as it can lead to decompression of the cellulitis and underlying infection. You just need to make sure to keep the wounds clean and infection free as it may further contract some infection and may complicate recovery.
Pressure dressings may not be needed however covering the wound loosely and repeatedly changing the soaked clothing or bedding around it is a must. Avoiding complete exposure to air may lead to anaerobic bacterial infections which may also complicate healing.
Meanhwile continue antibiotics and if needed OTC analgesics or anti inflammatory drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Topical antibiotics like fucidic acid may also be considered.
Wishing her a speedy recovery. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Regards.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Answered by
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