Since 6 mo. in africa, wounds heal more slowly than previously. plus, scars persist for minor wnds. explanations? (malaria meds.+ sleep deprivation?)

Stress: Medications, lack of sleep, change in diet, other stressors can all slow wound healing. Scars are a process of the healing. Scars are more likely to remain noticeable is exposed to the sun during the healing and remodeling stages (first year after the injury). Wearing sunscreen or keep the area covered when out in the sun can help.

Tough one.: Scars can take a full year to completely mature and if they are exposed to sun during that time, they can darken permanently. As far as healing, many explanations can lead to interruption in proper healing but it generally reflects an overall systemic state of health and immune compromise may be the answer. A thorough medical evaluation by a good internist would be my recommendation.

Hard to say here: Nutrition is a major component in wound healing, so if your diet in africa was suboptimal that might contribute. Malaria medications, once stopped, shouldn't have any ongoing issues. Stress (including sleep deprivation) also can take a toll on health in general, including wound healing. Have your doctor exam your wounds to make sure they are healing normally, and start a multivitamin.

What malaria meds?: What meds were u taking for malaria prevention? Did u take the meds as instructed (start 1 week or more b4 travel, continue for 1-2 wks after return?) Some malaria medications, most notably hydroxychloroquine & doxycycline, impair wound healing or cause a deeper, darker scar than what u are accustomed to. Unfortunately, there is no way to "reverse" the scar once formed. But the meds should wash ou