By the fifth or sixth day, a pustule about one centimeter in diameter will develop on the site of the initial wound. The affected skin might be reddened, itchy, and scaly. As the inflammation continues, part of the skin will progress from a rash that’s itchy and scaly to dry and peeling.
It might be oval or round in shape. If you have jungle rot, your ulcer could be from half an inch to thirteen inches in diameter. Your ulcer’s size will depend on your overall health and nutrition. The healthier you are, the less serious your ulcer will be. The ulcer will grow quickly during the first three weeks, then slow in growth until it reaches its maximum size after about six weeks.
In severe cases, there is marked disability where one is unable to walk. This may occur when the infection spreads to the tendon, sheath and the bones. You can relieve pain with adequate bandaging. Use a non-adhesive dressing and change it daily. Wash the wound with clean water between dressings and pat dry.
Difficulty swallowing Spasms that last several minutes Stiffness in the neck or jaw Fever High blood pressure
Most cases of ruptured tendons require surgery. Talk to your doctor if you suspect you’ve ruptured a tendon.
You have extreme pain in your affected limb followed by a period of numbness Your skin near the ulcer is deeply discolored and appears bruised. It might be red, purple, black, blue, or bronze in color. Your skin is pale, hard, numb, or cold. You have an extreme fever and/or low blood pressure in addition to any of the above symptoms.
The amount of time the hyperpigmentation lasts varies from person to person.
If you do get mud splashed on you, wipe it off immediately. Those who live near the river or streams, farmers who work in rice paddies, and those who live in slum areas are at risk of developing tropical ulcers.
Take special care with injuries to the legs and feet, since 90% of all tropical ulcers develop below the knee. It is then best to keep the area clean and dry at all costs — especially in cases of burns.
Wear clean socks and well-fitting shoes. Additionally, wear pants that extend to the ankle. Avoid wearing shorts. Keep your feet dry. Do not walk in wet shoes for any significant distance. If your shoes get wet, remove them and allow them to dry. Do not share clothes or shoes with others.
