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absol , 04 Dec 2013

Seeking medical help for infections?

Hi, I'm new here. I'm 39 and have always been a picker, could never leave scabs alone, etc. I have severe anxiety and OCD, as well as a long history of self-injury, that had been under control for 6 years. I am still "clean & sober" from self-injury as far as cutting, etc. But this year my picking began to increase and is now out of control. My body is riddled with wounds, scabs and open sores. The worst area is my breasts (I've seen others mention the same issue here). Part of the problem is that it's nearly impossible to bandage the area, and bras rub against the wounds all day, never allowing them to heal on the rare occasions when I can keep myself from picking for a few days. I'm horribly embarrassed by what I've done to my body. I want to show my doctor, but I keep chickening out. I know the wounds are seriously infected, with red streaks connecting many of them, as well as streaking towards my heart. I wouldn't be surprised if I had MRSA. Or was even headed towards sepsis. But not even knowing that is making it easier to see the doctor. Anyway, I dunno. Tell me your horror stories. Scare me into seeing a doctor. Anything. Or how about some advice on how to bring it up with my doctor? That's the hardest. :(
4 Answers
FrustratedAmy
December 04, 2013
You definitely need to go to the doctor ASAP! However, in the mean time, go to Walgreens and buy Hibiclens...the pharmacist can help you. It is anti-septic, anti-bacterial and anti-biotic. It works wonders with infections!
pumpky1107
December 12, 2013
I have been a picker my whole life and for the first time I was diagnosed with Staph infection that could have killed me. Picked sores on breast which got infected then spread to my neck where I urrently have a furnacule abcess. Then it settled in my hands which are now peeling like a reptile! I pick my cuticles/scalp as well. My new inhaler Advair weakened my immune system so this picking habit can be deadly. All this I know as a Nurse but I cannot resist picking. On extremely powerful antibiotics now. Did this to myself. Get to your Dr asap!
pumpky1107
December 12, 2013
I have been a picker my whole life and for the first time I was diagnosed with Staph infection that could have killed me. Picked sores on breast which got infected then spread to my neck where I urrently have a furnacule abcess. Then it settled in my hands which are now peeling like a reptile! I pick my cuticles/scalp as well. My new inhaler Advair weakened my immune system so this picking habit can be deadly. All this I know as a Nurse but I cannot resist picking. On extremely powerful antibiotics now. Did this to myself. Get to your Dr asap!
CindyR
December 13, 2013
CindyR I think the gig is up, my friend if you think you have an infection, you need to go to the Doctor. The therapist I am discussing this with tonight reminded me that infections are dangerous. Go to the Doctor and let them know about your picking. Some Drs are understanding of this some are not but I think they will at least treat your infection. My family Dr. was great - he didn't blink an eye when i got brave enough to show him my forehead ( I previously plastered it with make-up so he wouldn't notice) The plastic surgeon he sent me too was a jerk. ( See my previous post I think I entitled it Stupid Plastic Surgeon.) My personal advice don't mess with an infection go to the Dr.

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