Squeezing a pimple on your face could lead to meningitis. Learn about the "triangle of death."

Although it may seem harmless, popping a pimple or blackhead on certain areas of your face can seriously endanger your health. Dermatologists and doctors warn that there is an area known as the "triangle of death," where manipulating skin lesions can cause severe infections, even meningitis.

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This imaginary triangle covers the area from the top of the bridge of the nose to the corners of the lips, including the area around the mouth and nose. The reason it is considered dangerous is its direct connection to the blood vessels that carry blood to the brain.

The veins in this region do not have valves to stop the flow, so a local infection can quickly spread to the cavernous sinus, a venous structure located at the base of the skull. If bacteria reach this point, can cause serious complications such as cavernous sinus thrombosis, sepsis or meningitis.

Why is popping a pimple here so risky?

When you squeeze a pimple, you can break the skin barrier and allow bacteria (such as Staphylococcus aureus) to enter. penetrate deeper into the skin and blood vessels. In the triangle of death area, this means that the infection could travel quickly to the brain.

Additionally, the pressure exerted when trying to extract the contents of the pimple can push the infected material into deeper layers, increasing the risk of complications.

Possible consequences

Conditions that could develop if an infection in this area spreads include:

• Facial cellulitis (infection of the skin and underlying tissues).
• Abscesses in the affected area.
• Cavernous sinus thrombosis (blood clot in a cerebral vein).
• Meningitis (inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord).
• Sepsis (a generalized inflammatory response that can be life-threatening).

How to prevent risk

• Avoid handling or squeezing pimples, especially in the triangle of death area.
• Wash your face with products suitable for your skin type.
• Use topical treatments recommended by a dermatologist for acne or blackheads.
• See a specialist if a lesion becomes swollen, painful, or has pus.

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Although this may seem exaggerated to many, the medical recommendation is clear: do not manipulate skin lesions in the area that directly connects to the brain. A pimple in the triangle of death can not only leave a scar, but also become a medical emergency.

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