"Dead Skin, Swelling, and Pain on Toe – Possible Infection or Circulation Issue, Need Treatment Advice" - #10462
I have developed dead skin on my toe along with noticeable swelling and pain. The affected area also appears slightly discolored and may be infected. It feels tender to touch and there's some dryness and possible pus formation. I'm concerned it could be an infection or a circulation-related issue. Please advise on the proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Doctors’ responses
Investigations Advised:
CBC – To check infection (↑ WBC count)
RBS/FBS/PPBS – To rule out diabetes
Wound Swab Culture & Sensitivity – If pus/discharge is present
Hello dear Please be aware I doubt you are developing gangrene Please take following medications and consult general surgeon for better clarification Tab Amoxicillin 500 mg twice a day for 5 days 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution twice a day to be applied topically Tab metrogyl 400 mg twice a day for 5 days Hope improvement occurs Regards
You likely have a bacterial or fungal infection, possibly complicated by poor circulation or an ingrown toenail — consult a general surgeon or dermatologist immediately for proper diagnosis. Treatment may include antibiotics, antifungal creams, or minor surgical cleaning if pus is present. Avoid self-treatment; early medical care can prevent serious complications like cellulitis or deeper tissue infection.
1) Tab Clavam 625 1 tab thrice daily after meal for 7 days 2) Tab zerodol P 1 tab twice daily after meal for 3 days 3) Tab pan40 1 tab before breakfast for 3 days 4) Ointment T bact Apply thrice daily
Clean with normal saline or Betadine diluted solution twice daily
Do not burst or squeeze the lesion
Keep the foot elevated and clean, avoid tight footwear
Use cotton socks and avoid walking barefoot
Visit nearest physician or take my personal consultation here.
Hello kaushal .these signs you have described are indicating towards wet gangrene due to infection.
I would suggest you to visit your nearest surgeon for treatment as it is serious issues
For now avoid wetting that area , don’t remove skin or self medicate The earliest you visit your surgeon that earlier and better chances of toe surviving
Dead skin, swelling, and pain on your toe along with changes in color and potential pus could certainly indicate the development of an infection or possibly a circulation problem such as peripheral artery disease. Regarding infection, these symptoms may suggest cellulitis or an abscess forming, especially with tenderness and possible pus. If there’s a wound or any break in the skin, bacteria could invade and cause infection. If circulation issues are the cause, inadequate blood flow might lead to swelling and skin changes. A more serious circulation issue can result in tissue breakdown and necrosis. Immediate steps should include keeping the area clean and dry. Avoid any tight shoes or restrictive footwear which can worsen swelling or impinge blood flow. Applying a sterile, non-stick dressing to the area can help if there are open or weeping wounds. See a healthcare provider as soon as possible — either a general practitioner or a podiatrist. If redness is spreading rapidly, or you have fever or increasing tenderness, seek immediate medical attention, as these could be signs of a serious infection like cellulitis needing antibiotic treatment. The provider may perform a physical examination, possibly order blood tests or an ultrasound to check for circulation problems. For circulation-related issues, lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation, exercise, and addressing cardiovascular risk factors may be necessary. Likewise, laboratory testing can help determine if an infection is present or rule out other causes. Your doctor might prescribe antibiotics if it’s infectious or recommend further vascular assessment. Don’t try treating the area with creams or over-the-counter remedies until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional.
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