Most physical wounds produce some drainage. It is common to see blood seeping from a fresh cut, but there are other substances that may also drain from a wound.
In this article, learn about serosanguineous drainage and other types of drainage. When should you see a doctor?
What is serosanguineous drainage?
Serosanguineous drainage may occur when a wound is attempting to heal. It is rarely a cause for concern.
Serosanguineous drainage is one common type of wound drainage. It typically appears as the wound is trying to heal and may have a pale red or pink color.
Serosanguineous drainage may also appear as a clear liquid swirled with red blood. The changes in appearance depend on how much clotted blood is mixed in with the blood serum.
This type of drainage is a sign of healing, and it is not usually a cause for concern when it appears in normal amounts.
Serosanguineous drainage that becomes redder may be an indication of active bleeding, a reopened wound, or a hemorrhage.
Causes of serosanguineous drainage
If a wound gives off serosanguineous discharge, it may be due to damaged capillaries. This is very common in wounds with larger surface areas that need their dressings cleaned.
Old drainage may dry and attach to the dressing or bandage and damage the capillaries close to the skin when it is pulled off.
Injuries that require a person to change their dressings regularly may produce more serosanguineous drainage, though this can happen in wounds of any size.
