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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes A Swollen Leg Despite Taking Antibiotics After An Injury?

Hi, My self Venkatesh.I had a leg injury and next day leg swollen badly and pus has formed.I took antibiotic and a injection for 2days.Things recovered for one day but it again started increasing leg is swelling.Can you suggest what could be the cause
Wed, 17 May 2017
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi there

The symptoms you describe most likely suggests cellulitis, a skin infection that can rapidly spread as well as form an abscess, a localised collection of pus. The affected area is usually swollen, red, warm to touch, and painful.

This infection typically occurs after the skin is broken from localised injury to the skin, the bacteria penetrates the area and the infection spreads, it is more common if you are diabetic or if you have swollen legs from any other cause.

If you are already on antibiotics, I advise that you visit your doctor as soon as possible as you may require a change of antibiotics, usually a penicillin based drug.
If the infection is severe, you will require IV antibiotics.
In the time being, clean the area thoroughly and keep it dry.
You can apply a topical antiseptic such as mupirocin or silver sulfadiazine.
Continue with the antibiotics until you see your doctor.
Elevate your leg to reduce the swelling.
Control your sugar levels if you are diabetic.

Keep well.
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What Causes A Swollen Leg Despite Taking Antibiotics After An Injury?

Hi there The symptoms you describe most likely suggests cellulitis, a skin infection that can rapidly spread as well as form an abscess, a localised collection of pus. The affected area is usually swollen, red, warm to touch, and painful. This infection typically occurs after the skin is broken from localised injury to the skin, the bacteria penetrates the area and the infection spreads, it is more common if you are diabetic or if you have swollen legs from any other cause. If you are already on antibiotics, I advise that you visit your doctor as soon as possible as you may require a change of antibiotics, usually a penicillin based drug. If the infection is severe, you will require IV antibiotics. In the time being, clean the area thoroughly and keep it dry. You can apply a topical antiseptic such as mupirocin or silver sulfadiazine. Continue with the antibiotics until you see your doctor. Elevate your leg to reduce the swelling. Control your sugar levels if you are diabetic. Keep well.