Skin infections and wounds from injecting

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Painful swollen lump at an injection site
• Sores, abscesses, or track marks from injecting

Less common

• Fever

Look up a symptom: Fever

When to get medical care

Causes

Bacteria.

Possible complications

• Endocarditis

Diagnosis

Exam.

Treatment

Care for wounds.

Self-care

• Use new, sterile supplies each time
• Clean skin with alcohol
• Don't share

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

• Syringe services programs

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can go to school or work. Keep the wound clean and covered.
• Avoid pools and hot tubs until the skin heals.

Outlook

Treatable.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing my symptoms?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Skin infections and wounds from injecting