Infected Incision

[sarsar 824]

I am a little over a month post-op and I noticed today that one of my incisions seems to be infected. Last night my stomach was itching where my incision was. I didn't even think about it and I scratched it, I then realized I scratched the scab off of the incision. It didn't hurt or anything and I didn't think much of it. Today it was a little tender so I looked at it and there was some puss that came out of it (sorry, it's gross). I immediately washed it and put some antibiotic cream on it and covered it with gauze. It is a little red but not puffy and it is tender if I touch it. All of my other incisions are completely healed.

Has this happened to anyone else? Any ideas as to what to do? I was thinking I would keep the ointment on it over the next couple of days and if it gets worse by Monday I will go and see my doctor. Of course, if I get a fever or anything like that I will go to the ER.

[MrsPositive 5]

Yes...you did exactly the right thing. Watch to be sure the puss is draining and then will go from white to clear or reddish clear. If it gets worse call your doc....like red streaks extending out, gets warm to touch, more drainage etc. I used to be a wound care specialist. Hope it clears up easily with the antibiotic and bandage. Joan

[1-4-Many 2]

It sounds like you got on it fast. But just one more thing, be aware of any smell. During the window of the hole healing where my drain was they told me a change in smell also indicates trouble. That might only be because it was a large opening that was healing, but it's just something else to be aware of just in case.

[KellyL 173]

Sorry to hear this, I'm surprised it happened this far out. I hope it clears up quickly for you!

[sarsar 824]

I was actually surprised myself! It seemed to be healed already, all of the other incisions are fine. I check them daily and didn't notice anything until last night when I scratched it!

[sarsar 824]

It sounds like you got on it fast. But just one more thing, be aware of any smell. During the window of the hole healing where my drain was they told me a change in smell also indicates trouble. That might only be because it was a large opening that was healing, but it's just something else to be aware of just in case.

I will watch for this, thanks. It's not my drain incision that I am having trouble with, it's a tiny one on the other side!

[Raine 170]

Feel better Sarsar! Just be mindful of it and if it gets worse go to the docs.

[ybnormal 21]

Hey Sarah, make sure you're washing it a couple times a day with an antibacterial soap. I know that Safeguard kills even staph, so I've been using that. Dial also kills staph if you prefer that kind. I hope it gets better quickly! **HUGS**

Renee`

[ahoy 3]

Hi, sarsar! Had the same exact experience with my "drain hole" -- scratched, scab came off, little bits of yellow pus, etc. My surgeon took a look, cleaned it out, swabbed it, and bandaged it back up and it healed JUST fine. In other words, just what you did. Only worry if it gets worse :