Wrinkled skin after swelling

[suem78]

About a week and a half ago, I got stung by a bee, resulting in massive swelling of my big toe. The swelling has since gone down, but the top of my toe now has a large patch of red, wrinkly skin. It feels very "leathery" as well. It is not on the site of the bee sting (I got stung on the bottom of my toe), so I'm pretty sure it has more to do with the swelling than the sting. Do you think this will go away on its own? Or should I be using some sort of lotion or cream? It's just sort of strange and unsightly.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to an allergic reaction to the bee sting which can result in cellulitis skin. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful. In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[suem78]

It was cellulitis, took an antibiotic and all cleared up according to the doc. She says the skin looks fine, but I disagree, and she was a terrible, terrible doctor and I'm never going back to her.

[Caryopteris]

I'd see a doctor if it doesn't improve.  Maybe it is cellulitis or something.  I don't know.