Swimming options with a surgically operated abscess wound.
May 19, 2017 | 20,00 EUR | answered by MD Felix Aaslepp
Dear Sir or Madam,
I need some advice. I had an abscess on my left buttock (a small piece above the anus) surgically removed on 03.04. The wound is now about the size of a 2 cent coin and approximately 3-4 cm deep after almost 7 weeks. I clean and pack the wound daily, and it is healing very well.
Now to my main problem: I am flying to Egypt on 02.07. for vacation. Can I swim in the sea and pool with this wound? Can I take precautions to prevent infection in the wound? I thought I could change the packing 3 times a day, rinse the wound with disinfectant, and use a waterproof plaster while bathing. Can I enjoy my vacation this way, or do I have to bite the bullet and cancel it?
The wound is smaller on the outside than on the inside. What would happen if the wound closes on the outside but there is still a hollow space inside? There is still daily secretion flowing out of the opening.
Thank you in advance.
Hello,
First of all, regarding your question about the wound healing: It must not happen that the wound heals superficially, but there is still a cavity in depth, as this can often lead to a new infection/abscess due to a buildup of secretions and germs. Therefore, the tamponade is used, which must be used until the wound healing is complete.
Now, regarding your vacation: You should only swim in the pool if you can completely seal the wound with adhesive film. However, I consider this to be very unlikely, which is why I would advise against it. Firstly, because the hygienic conditions of pools, especially abroad, are not always optimal, and secondly, out of consideration for other bathers who would otherwise be exposed to your germs. Sea water, on the other hand, has a cleansing effect. There is no problem with bathing in the sea. Here, you can even expose the wound to the water without adhesive film if necessary. However, it is important that no liquid remains in the wound for a long time. So after bathing, rinse the wound and reapply the tamponade. I would advise against showering the wound in Egypt due to potential water quality issues. Avoid direct sunlight on the area and prolonged exposure to heat, as this can promote a new infection. So always take breaks from the sun.
Overall, there is nothing stopping you from enjoying your vacation as long as you follow certain rules.
Best regards and have a great vacation!
