Exudate
Updated: 2023-09-27
Description
Fluid that leaks from wounds as part of the healing process.
Self-care
Gently wash the area with soap and water. Use petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist. Cover with a bandage. Change the bandage daily.
When to seek immediate medical care
See a healthcare professional right away for:
- Red streaks on white skin. On Black or brown skin, the streaks might be darker than the skin around them and might be hard to see.
- Lightheadedness.
- Low blood pressure.
When to make a doctor's appointment
Make an appointment to see a healthcare professional for:
- Fever lasting more than a day.
- Warmth, tenderness, pain or swelling in the affected area.
- Affected area getting bigger or skin color changes spreading.
- More fluid leaking out.