Is your bone infected? Let's learn about osteomyelitis!

Do you sometimes feel like a bone somewhere in your body just hurts, feels swollen? Or does even a small wound seem to be badly infected? These may not be simple things. Today we are going to talk about a bone infection that is a bit serious, but can be cured if treated properly. This is what we call osteomyelitis.

What is Osteomyelitis?

Simply put, osteomyelitis is an infection that occurs in your bones . Think about it, sometimes when we have a wound on our body and it is not taken care of properly, bacteria or fungi enter and cause infection? Well, this condition occurs when these germs spread to the bones. Specifically, it affects the part inside your bones called the bone marrow . Then that area becomes very swollen and starts to hurt .

It can occur in any bone in the body. However, in young children , it most often occurs in the long bones of the legs or arms. In adults , it usually occurs in the vertebrae or hip bones of the spine.

The most important thing is that if this is not treated properly in time , it can cause permanent damage to the bones, and sometimes even necrosis (tissue death). Therefore, it is very important to be aware of this.

What are the main types of osteomyelitis?

Yes, there are several main types of osteomyelitis. Let's see what they are.

• Acute osteomyelitis: This is the most common type . It occurs when you have another infection (such as a skin wound) and the germs spread to the bone. It can start suddenly.
• Vertebral osteomyelitis: As the name suggests, this is osteomyelitis that affects the bones of your spine (vertebrae) . It usually presents with back pain.
• Chronic osteomyelitis: This is a type that requires some attention. Sometimes, after the initial infection is treated, it may not be completely cured and remain in the body, reappearing months or even years later . It is like a chronic condition. The best way to prevent this is to take the medication your doctor prescribes for the full duration of the treatment. Otherwise, the infection may not go away completely.

How common is this disease called Osteomyelitis?

In fact, it's not a disease that affects everyone. Researchers say that less than 25 out of 100,000 people develop it each year. However, there's a small difference. This condition is slightly more common among people who are hospitalized . Some studies suggest that it affects about 1 in every 675 people admitted to the hospital.

Now you might be wondering why this happens, right? Experts believe that some people in the hospital have other health problems, injuries, or surgeries that make it easier for bacteria or fungi to enter their bodies and travel to their bones. This means they are more susceptible to these types of infections.

What are the symptoms of osteomyelitis?

The symptoms of this can vary slightly depending on the type of osteomyelitis you have and which bone is infected. However, there are some common symptoms. Let's take a look at what they are.

• Fever.
• Feeling lifeless, unwell. Just like being sick.
• Bone pain. This is the main symptom. You feel like touching the area that hurts.
• Feeling like you're getting cold (Chills).
• Sweating, especially at night.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Skin discoloration. The skin may become red and discolored where the infection is.
• Inflammation. The infected area may be swollen.
• The skin feels warm. When you put your hand on it, it feels like it's hot.
• Drainage of pus or other fluid, especially if there is an infection around a wound or surgical site.

In addition, people with vertebral osteomyelitis usually experience severe pain in the lower back . Sometimes, people with chronic osteomyelitis may not have any symptoms at all. That's what's a little scary.

What is the main cause of osteomyelitis?

Simply put, the main cause of this is an infection that has spread to your bones . Most of the time, an infection on the surface of your skin – say, where you have a wound or where you have had an operation – causes germs to get into your bloodstream and travel through the bloodstream to the bone marrow, which is inside your bones. It's like an enemy sneaking in.

Who is at higher risk of developing osteomyelitis?

It can actually happen to anyone. However, some people are more likely to develop it. Let's take a look at who they are:

• People under the age of 20 and people over the age of 50. These two age groups are at slightly higher risk.
• People with open wounds after an injury or accident. Imagine a large wound, and if it's not closed properly, germs can easily enter, right?
• People who have recently undergone surgery, especially those who have had joint replacement surgery (Arthroplasty - joint replacement) , or those who have had wires or pins inserted into a bone fracture, are at risk. This is because germs can also enter through the inserted instruments.
• People who have suffered puncture injuries. Imagine if something like a needle or a nail pierced your skin, it goes deep enough that the germs can reach the bones.
• People with pressure injuries or bedsores. When you stay in the same position for a long time, some areas become pressure sores. Infections can also occur through those sores.

Also, people with certain health conditions and those taking medications that weaken the immune system are more likely to develop osteomyelitis. Here are a few examples:

• People with a blood disease called sickle cell anemia .
• People with diabetes. This risk is especially high in people who have diabetes-related foot ulcers.
• People taking immunosuppressants. These medications are given for certain diseases or after organ transplants.
• People who are undergoing hemodialysis. That is, people who are undergoing treatment to purify their blood because their kidneys are not working properly.

What other complications can occur due to osteomyelitis?

Yes, this can lead to some complications if not treated on time. Let's see what they are:

• Abscesses: Bone infections can cause pus to collect and form abscesses, which can sometimes burst through the skin. Treating these abscesses, which involves draining the pus, is said to have a very rare, slightly increased risk of skin cancer.
• Osteonecrosis (bone death): If the blood supply to a bone is cut off due to swelling caused by infection, the bone can die. This is very rare . However, if it does happen, some people may need to have the bone surgically removed (amputation).
• Growth retardation: If young children develop osteomyelitis, their bone growth may be slower than normal. This means that things like height gain and limb lengthening may be delayed.

How does a doctor diagnose osteomyelitis?

If you have these symptoms, when you go to see a doctor, he or she will first do a physical exam . Then they will ask you about your symptoms, such as when they started . If you have recently had surgery, had an injury, or started taking new medications for another condition, you should tell your doctor about all of this. It is very important.

In addition, your doctor may perform several tests to confirm the infection and check the condition of your bones, such as:

• Blood tests: These can check for infection in the body.
• X-ray: To see if there are any changes in the bones.
• MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging - MRI): This can take a clearer picture of the bones, bone marrow, and surrounding tissues.
• CT scan (Computed Tomography - CT scan): This also helps to take detailed pictures of the bones.
• Ultrasound scan: This is sometimes used to check for swelling or pus accumulation.
• Bone scan: This can pinpoint the infected areas of the bones.
• Bone marrow biopsy: Sometimes, a small piece of bone or bone marrow is taken and tested to find out exactly what is causing the infection.

How is osteomyelitis treated?

Your doctor will prescribe treatment to help clear up the infection and prevent permanent damage to your bones . The main treatments include:

• Antibiotics: If the infection is caused by bacteria , you will be given antibiotics to treat it. You may be given intravenous (IV) antibiotics for a few weeks, followed by oral antibiotics for a few more weeks. This will take some time.
• Antifungals: If the infection is caused by a fungus , antifungal medications are prescribed. These are usually taken by mouth for several months.
• Painkillers: To reduce pain and swelling, you can take over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prescribed by your doctor. But, is it best to take only the amount your doctor tells you to take?
• Needle aspiration: If pus has formed in the form of abscesses, a doctor may use a needle to remove the pus or fluid.
• Surgery: If the infection is severe or there is a high risk of complications , you may need surgery. People with vertebral osteomyelitis are especially likely to need surgery.

How soon will I feel better after starting treatment?

Osteomyelitis takes a while to heal. You may need to take antibiotics or antifungals for several months. However, once you start taking the medication, the infection will be controlled and the germs will start to die, and you will gradually start to feel better . However, you need to be patient to fully recover.

What should I expect if I develop osteomyelitis?

Most people who develop osteomyelitis recover without long-term complications if treated properly . But the most important thing is to recognize the infection early and start treatment as soon as possible . If you have signs of an infection, see a doctor right away.

How long can this osteomyelitis last?

Osteomyelitis can last a long time . You may need to receive treatment for several months until the infection is completely gone. So ask your doctor or surgeon what to expect.

How do we avoid this osteomyelitis?

In fact, the most important things you can do to avoid this are to keep new wounds, cuts, and incisions clean and to keep surgical sites sterile . These are the best ways to prevent bone infections.

• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
• Clean any scrapes or cuts with soap and warm water as soon as they occur. Do not make a big wound, even if it is small.
• If you have a deep cut, puncture wound, or a major accident, go to the emergency room immediately.
• After any surgery, ask your doctor exactly how to keep the wound clean. It is very important to follow those instructions.

How should I take care of myself, in this situation?

This is very important. If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics or antifungals, you should take them for the full prescribed period, without missing a day. Do not stop taking the medication even if you feel a little better. You should finish the full course. Otherwise, if you stop the medication early, the infection may not be completely cured. This increases the risk of developing chronic osteomyelitis and other complications .

After an operation, ask your surgeon how to keep the incisions clean . He or she will tell you everything from when to shower and wash the wound, how to clean the wound, and what kind of soap to use.

Most importantly, if you see signs of infection – especially at the site of surgery – notify your doctor or surgeon immediately .

When should I definitely see a doctor?

If you notice signs of infection , especially if you see pus or fluid coming from a wound or surgical site, see your doctor or surgeon immediately, without delay . In these cases, it's best to act quickly.

What are the important questions I should ask the doctor?

When you go to see the doctor, it's a good idea to ask some questions like these. That way, you'll have a better understanding of the illness.

• ``What type of osteomyelitis do I have?``
• ``What caused this bone infection?``
• ``What kind of treatment do I need?``
• ``How long should I take antibiotics or antifungals?``
• ``What is the best way to keep my surgical site or wound clean to prevent infection?``

How serious is this condition called osteomyelitis?

Osteomyelitis is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment . The good news is that most of the time, it responds well to treatment . However, to avoid serious complications, it is important to start treatment as soon as possible. So, don't panic, and see a doctor if you have any symptoms.

Will this osteomyelitis get better on its own?

No, not at all. Osteomyelitis does not go away on its own. It is extremely important to see a doctor to get it diagnosed and treated. It is true that your body's immune system fights germs, and it works wonders. However, to get rid of the infection that causes osteomyelitis, you will definitely need antibiotics or antifungals .

If you see signs of infection around a wound, never ignore it , especially if you have recently had surgery. If you notice any changes in your surgical site, notify your doctor or surgeon immediately. It is always better to ask questions than not to ask any questions at all . If you feel or see something that doesn't seem right to you, it is worth investigating.

The most important message to take home

Okay, so, the osteomyelitis we talked about today is a bone infection that occurs when bacteria or fungi spread to your bone marrow. This can be really serious, and it can even cause permanent damage to your bones . However, if you start treatment within a few days, that is, quickly, it can be largely controlled and even cured .

If you have signs of infection, such as a fever, warmth at the infected area, pus, or drainage, see a doctor immediately.

Especially if you've had surgery, it's extremely important to keep those incisions clean . Your surgeon will give you clear instructions on how to keep them clean. Don't be afraid to ask questions . Your doctors are there to help you stay safe and healthy. They will never be angry at you for explaining things differently or showing you exactly what to do. The most important thing is to take care of your own health!

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