Yesterday I was diagnosed with a skin infection inside my leg.
I have a huge chunk of metal in that leg. I’ve been very lucky to avoid having a skin infection since it was put in - I had four, maybe five, maybe operations and all healed brilliantly.
I am on double x dose antibiotics for this infection, thanks to an out of hours GP who (miracle of miracles) was an orthopaedic surgeon until he retrained, who I saw last night. So I’m hoping it responds quickly. I was told to go to A&E for an X Ray if any of the symptoms worsen or I get a fever. I couldn’t get through to anyone at my own practice, hence 111.
This is the science bit -
Why would I have a skin infection now, and when I’ve only had a localised cellulitis before after a bee sting (in the same place), why here right where bone and metal join inside the leg? Where does it come from? Is it something thyroid patients are more likely to have?
Is this something you need a blood test/s for?
I’m guessing an undiagnosed UTI might potentially have led to me getting this. Is that likely? I have no idea how deep tissue infections develop out of the blue. Any other things to rule out or that help recovery? I’m elevating the leg and drinking lots of water in the absence of any advice.
I feel as if I am having high fevers even though the thermometer says I’m not - is this a thyroid thing?
If anyone knows please how these opportunist infections arise / what other problems to exclude / how far away from this type of antibiotic (fluxcloxacillin) I need to take my thyroxine (currently 2 hours), I’d be very grateful.
I recognise this is not pure thyroid territory and while am sure some have expertise / personal experience in this area, some won’t at all, so thanks for hearing me out!