It looks like more infection

Well folks, it looks like I might be in for another trip to the hospital. While doing my nightly ritual of wound management I was treated to excessive amounts of drainage from my "yet-to-be-healed" incision. I am also running a low grade fever. I am going to start calling the doctor in the morning and see if he can work me in this week. I am not scheduled to go back to the doctor until December 2nd, but I don't see the point in waiting around for this thing to get even worse. Plus, my hernia is really starting to bother me. It was an effort for me just to get around the office at work today I'm really at my wits end. I'm starting to wonder if there is going to be an end to this recovery any time soon Well, I just wanted to let you guys know what's up in case I disappear for a few days. Y'all be prayin' for me! Jimmy

Hi Jimmy, try not to worry. Just call your doctor and get started on meds. You have to take care of yourself because you are needed for our strong supporter. Hope you can get some rest and the news from the doctor won't be too serious. I will be remembering you in prayer. Smiles, Jan

I am so sorry to hear that Jimmy. I will be praying for you.

Hi Jimmy, Hate to hear this is happening to ya.. you'll be in my prayers for sure .. Lynn~

Jimmy, I am so sorry to hear about your infection! It seems like if it isn't me, it's you that is sick. I pray that you have a quick recovery from this infection. ~Jo~

Oh, no, Jimmy!!! I surely hate to hear this!!! Hopefully, the docs will fix you right up gooder than new! If you are out for a while I will definitely miss you...You are always in my thoughts and prayers! Smoochers, Arlies PS WD40

Jimmy, You will be in my thoughts and prayers and if your out for a few you will be missed. Joyce

Let us know what happens. We will lift you up all day today. Hopefully it will resolve itself soon. Barb

Jimmy, Dude! I'm a bit of a patient's eye view on the open wound issues. So- Get on the Anti-biotics ASAP. Are you packing the wound with gauze? If so make sure you're using sterile saline solution and not Jus****er. If the opening is small (3" and under) Ask the Dr. for Norma-Gel It's a saline gel that promotes healing while killing off any germs. Also try to kill off all possible microbes over your entire body. Shower using Hebiclens, you can get it at the pharmacy And it kills all germs it touches. Also, kill off and microbes that you might come in contact with By spraying down your shower with a bleach and water mixture And the next day spray it down with Lysol. Try you best to keep your surroundings as germ free as The operating room. If you've got an open space in your skin Germs are just waiting to get in there to eat. Keep that Dr. on the phone and fight those little devils. Best Wishes- Dx

I strongly agree with Dx. great advise. A couple of comments, the bleach solution should be about 10%. Make sure that your wound is dry after bathing before using an antibiotic dressing as this may help the antimicrobial work more effectively. Work an area about 8-12 inches around the wound with the hibiclens, even if you use it on the rest of your body as well. Stay on the Dr. for the antibiotic. In this case, it is not going to hurt you to stay on a lower dose antibiotic even after the incision looks better. You will be a little more susceptible to smaller staff infections (boils,etc) for a couple of months anyway. Hang in there and remember to be realistic about physical activity until you get a good closure. After closure, you can use vitamin E capsules (Poke a small whole in the end of the capsule and squeeze out the liquid over developing scare tissue). This can help a stronger scar develop as well as making it a little less noticible. Take care, james.