What causes a fluid discharge from the hurt hand?
Patient: I am 79 years old and had a bad fall while pushing a shopping cart down a ramp. My right elblow took a big hit and is now leaking a clear fluid,sometimes yellowish. I have been applying neosporin but the leak continues. What should I do?My height is 5ft11",weight 190lbs and have type 2 diabetes. Doctor: Considering the symptoms narrated by you & other co-morbid conditions such as high age & type 2 diabetes it is advisable not to neglect the wound. As exact opinion regarding the wound care can be given only after the visual impression of wound, it is advisable to have a physicain visit who will promt you regarding the further managment whether you need oral antibiotics, drainage, or just local antibiotics will sufficient enough. The clear & yellowish discharge (which might be pus) coming out of the wound on the elbow may be indicative of infection within for which you might need to have oral antibiotics.  Further more as there is no any information about your dibetic control its better not to take the chances and have consultaion which will clarify picturte. Also you may need to have tetanus toxoid shot if not taken in previous couple of years.