VERIFIED CONTENTAuthor: Klaudia Kierzkowska, graduate of chemistry at the University of Warsaw

The exudate, or fluid leaking from the wound, is perceived as something negative and harmful. Often completely unnecessary. The one with the correct consistency, color and quantity supports the wound healing process. However, it is worth remembering that it can be really dangerous at times. What exactly is an exudate, when does it arise and what to do when it appears?

Exudatemay appear while a wound is healing. A wound is a break in the anatomical continuity of tissues or their damage due to an external factor, e.g. thermal, mechanical or chemical trauma. Very often, during the wound healing stage, exudate occurs, which is one of the many elements of the wound healing process. Unfortunately, its excess or inappropriate color has negative consequences.

What is serous exudate?

Serous exudate is a fluid that accumulates in the wound with a clear, watery consistency. The exudate, which appears as a result of inflammation, is a natural defense reaction of the body - it facilitates and accelerates wound healing. Its composition includes valuable ingredients:

  • proteins and enzymes - accelerate wound healing,
  • leukocytes - protect against bacteria and viruses,
  • minerals - have a nutritional function.

It is through the exudate that the ingredients necessary for its regeneration get to the surface of the skin.

Types of serous exudate

Depending on the color and consistency, there are three types of exudate:

  • Serum exudate - with a thin and transparent consistency,
  • Serum-blooded exudate - with a thin consistency stained with blood,
  • Serous-purulent exudate - with a yellow, thick and sticky consistency.

Serum exudate - is it a cause for concern?

Exudate is the body's natural defense response. If the wound heals properly and the exudate is thin and translucent, don't be alarmed. The exudate supports and accelerates the wound healing process. It protects it from drying out and helps to maintain a moist environment, which is an ally for the proper healing process of the wound.

In addition, it supports the migration of repair cells and provides the necessary for the processmetabolism of nutrients.

However, in the event that its amount is difficult to control, consult a doctor. Overproduction is most often the result of increasing wound infection. Another cause for concern is an unpleasant smell, red or white color, as well as unsuitable consistency - too thin or too watery.

What to do when exudate appears?

Oozing wounds require special care, and the key is the use of a properly selected dressing. The dressing should allow contact with the wound bed and absorb the exudate. However, it is important that it does not dry out and seal the wound.

Hydrocolloid and gel dressings are a good solution, which by regulating the microenvironment accelerate the wound healing process. In the case of a significant amount of exudate - difficult to absorb, we should often change the dressing.

However, special care should be taken, because each change of the dressing increases the risk of infection of the wound with microorganisms and interrupts the healing process.

We change the dressing only when necessary. In addition, oozing wounds should not be touched, poured with alcohol, gentian, or the blisters should not be punctured. In case of doubts or any irregularities, consult a doctor.

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