Three weeks of draining is a long time, and it sounds really exhausting — both physically and for your wardrobe! Since it's been going on this long, it's worth checking in with your doctor or dermatologist. A lesion that won't stop draining may need medical treatment like antibiotics, a steroid injection, or other options Show Full Answer
Three weeks of draining is a long time, and it sounds really exhausting — both physically and for your wardrobe! Since it's been going on this long, it's worth checking in with your doctor or dermatologist. A lesion that won't stop draining may need medical treatment like antibiotics, a steroid injection, or other options to get the inflammation under control. In the meantime, here are some tips to help manage the drainage and odor:
- Cover it up — Use highly absorbent dressings like gauze, ABD pads, or even menstrual pads to protect your clothes and absorb drainage. A myHSteam member swears by cheap period pads as a budget-friendly option!
- Change dressings regularly — Letting them get soaked makes odor and irritation worse
- Try petrolatum-based gauze — A myHSteam member found this helpful for open flares, layered under a regular bandage
- Warm compress — 15 minutes at a time can help encourage drainage and speed healing
- Loose, natural-fabric clothing — This reduces friction and irritation around the area For the smell specifically, keeping the wound clean and changing dressings frequently is the most effective approach. Some myHSteam members have also found that charcoal bandages or apple cider vinegar diluted with water help with odor.
Avoid applying deodorant or antiperspirant directly on or near the open lesion, as this can cause further irritation.
October 18
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