A 20-year-old college student in China, identified as Xiao Lin, recently suffered severe complications after squeezing a pimple, which ultimately led to more than ten cavities forming in his lungs and partial tissue necrosis. Fortunately, after prompt medical treatment, he has fully recovered and been discharged. Doctors warn the public not to squeeze pimples, especially in the “danger triangle” area of the face, and to seek immediate medical attention if fever or breathing difficulties occur.
According to reports from Zonglan News, Xiao Lin had been staying up late to prepare for exams when a red, swollen, soybean-sized pimple appeared on his face. Without sterilizing the area, he squeezed it, believing that releasing the pus would help the condition heal quickly. However, in the following days, the pimple became infected again, and he developed fever, cough, and phlegm, with over-the-counter medications offering only temporary relief.
He also began experiencing sharp pain in his lower right chest, worsening with deep breaths and coughing, at times so intense that he broke into a cold sweat. On the third day, his temperature spiked to 39°C (102°F), prompting him to seek medical help. A CT scan revealed multiple cavities in his lungs and areas of tissue necrosis—a classic case of hematogenous lung abscess.
Doctors identified the pimple as the root cause of the severe infection. Located in the facial “danger triangle,” squeezing it likely allowed bacteria to enter the bloodstream, causing sepsis. The bacteria then traveled through the blood to the lungs, resulting in tissue erosion and necrosis. If left untreated, this could have led to a life-threatening systemic infection.
Fortunately, Xiao Lin’s youth and strong health allowed him to respond well to antibiotics, and after 12 days of intensive treatment, he made a full recovery. Medical professionals stress that facial pimples, particularly in the danger triangle, should never be squeezed, and any signs of fever or breathing difficulties require immediate hospital care.
