Which symptom appearing or worsening after 72 hours signals that medical consultation is necessary for a coral injury?

Drainage of pus or thick, discolored discharge from the injury site

The expected healing window for most uncomplicated coral-related skin issues is relatively short, with clear signs of improvement typically visible within 48 to 72 hours after effective first aid. If, after this initial recovery window has passed, the symptoms shift from signs of resolution to clear indicators of complication, immediate medical review is required. One of the most definitive signs of a developing secondary complication, specifically a bacterial infection that will significantly extend recovery time beyond simple irritation, is the presence of abnormal discharge. The appearance of pus or any thick, discolored fluid draining from the injury site strongly suggests that bacteria have successfully colonized the wound, necessitating professional medical evaluation, potentially including wound cleaning or initiating antibiotic therapy, which drastically alters the expected recovery timeline.