Purulent discharge
Everything You Need to Know About Purulent Discharge
Purulent discharge is a type of secretion that’s a product of an infection or an injury. This discharge contains pus that contains a variety of bacteria, cellular debris, and white blood cells. It’s often yellow or green in color, and may have a foul scent. Usually, it’s thicker and more noticeable than other types of discharge.
Common Causes of Purulent Discharge?
Purulent discharge is caused by an infection or injury. Common causes include:
- Bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), vaginal infections, dental abscesses, sinus infections, and bronchitis
- Fungal infections, such as yeast infections and ringworm
- Problems with your immune system, such as HIV, syphilis, and leprosy
- Injuries that have become infected
When to See a Doctor?
Purulent discharge is usually an indication of an infection. You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms in addition to the discharge:
- Pain or tenderness
- Itching
- Fever
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- Foul odor
Your doctor may recommend a variety of tests to determine the cause of your discharge. These may include a physical exam, a pelvic exam, a Pap test, or a urine sample. Your doctor may also do a cervical culture.
Treatment
The treatment for purulent discharge depends on the cause. If you’re diagnosed with a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or ceftriaxone. If you’re diagnosed with a fungal infection, your doctor may prescribe antifungal medication, such as fluconazole or ketoconazole. In some cases, you may need to have surgery to remove the infected tissues, such as a tonsillectomy.
It’s important to take all of your prescribed medications as directed. Doing so will help ensure that your infection clears up completely.