A doctor has urged people not to ignore a red line on their skin, which could be a sign of a medical emergency. According to Dr. Joe Whittington from the United States, red streaks can be a sign of a dangerous infection.
Responding to another creator’s video on the social media platform TikTok showing a thick red line running from the toes up the leg, he explained how this could be a symptom of lymphangitis.
If not treated quickly, this infection can lead to abscess formation or even sepsis, he said.
Dr Whittington, better known online as Dr Joe MD, said: “If you see this red line, it’s a bad sign.
“This is called lymphangitis and it happens when there is a local infection.
“But you see red streaks going up from the infected side. That means there’s been an infection in the lymph vessels, which means it’s no longer localized, it’s now spread throughout the body.
“This is a medical emergency that must be treated with antibiotics.”
In the caption below, he explained more about this condition.
“Lymphangitis is an inflammation of the lymph vessels, often caused by a bacterial infection, typically strep or staph,” Dr. Joe said.
“It usually appears as red, painful streaks on the skin that extend from the site of infection to nearby lymph nodes, which may also be swollen and tender.
“Fever, chills and a general feeling of being unwell can accompany these symptoms.
“Prompt antibiotic treatment is essential to prevent the spread of infection and avoid possible complications such as abscess formation or sepsis.”
The Cleveland Clinic lists the following symptoms of lymphangitis:
- Red streaks on your skin
- Headache
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- A slow healing wound
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin or armpit.
The clinic warns that lymphangitis progresses quickly.
“In less than 24 hours, the infection can spread from the initial wound to multiple areas in your lymphatic system,” it says.
If left untreated, the infection can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis.
It adds: “If you notice red streaks on your skin or other symptoms of lymphangitis, tell your healthcare provider right away. Prompt treatment can prevent the infection from spreading.”
Causes of lymphangitis include:
- Skin infections such as cellulitis
- Puncture wounds
- Bites or stings from vipers
- Large wounds that require stitches (including surgical incisions)
- Sporotrichosis (common fungal dermatitis)
- Less commonly, lymphangitis is a complication of certain cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
