Skin infections are often a result of a cut or scrape. They can occur anywhere on the body, but they’re most common in warm areas such as the armpit or groin. If you notice any signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, itching, or pus), it’s important to visit a skin care clinic right away.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles that causes small red bumps to form on the skin. It can be caused by bacteria or fungus, and it’s most commonly seen in areas where you have a lot of hair, like your legs and armpits. Folliculitis can become more severe if left untreated, but it usually clears up on its own within three to four weeks without treatment.
There are two main types of folliculitis: hot tub folliculitis and barber’s itch (also called razor bumps). Hot tub folliculitis is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria that live in warm water at public pools or spas; it usually forms after you get out of the water. Barber’s itch/razor bumps develop when tiny nicks from shaving microscopic open wounds for bacteria to enter into your skin through; they often appear as raised red bumps with hard centres around each hair shaft near where you’ve shaved (e.g., your face).
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is an inflammation of the skin caused by bacteria. It can be localized, or it can spread to other areas of the body and cause serious problems such as sepsis. This disease is usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, though many other types of bacteria can also cause this infection. The signs and symptoms vary depending on whether you have localized or systemic cellulitis:
- Localized Cellulitis:
Redness and warmth over a specific area; pain if the area is pressed on; fever; nausea; vomiting
- Systemic Cellulitis (aka generalized or spreading cellulitis):
Fever; chills; muscle aches/aches all over the body (commonly referred to as “flu-like” symptoms); swollen glands in the neck area or underarms
Impetigo
Impetigo is a bacterial infection caused by staphylococcus bacteria. This type of bacteria typically lives in the nose and on the skin but can spread to other parts of your body. Impetigo generally appears as a red, itchy rash that forms small blisters. As per the experts at Pulse Light Clinic, “These blisters can break open and create scabs.” Impetigo can infect any area of your body, including your face, mouth and eyes.
Staph infection
Staph infections are common, affecting millions of Americans every year. They usually occur when bacteria that live on the skin invade a wound or break in the skin. Staph is contagious and can spread easily to others through direct contact with an infected person, shared items such as towels or clothing, or contaminated surfaces like doorknobs and countertops.
Staph infections most often affect people whose immune systems are weakened by other health conditions such as diabetes and cancer; they may also occur as an allergic reaction to antibiotics or from using contaminated products like creams or lotions on broken skin.
Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can be treated with antibiotics; however, there are many types of staphylococci (including MRSA) that do not respond well to treatment with standard antibiotics. In these cases, it can take longer for symptoms to clear up, but they will still go away eventually without treatment if you keep your hands clean and avoid further injury to your skin until then.
Hives
Hives (also known as urticaria) are raised, red itchy swellings on the skin. Hives can be caused by an allergy or stress. If you have hives that are accompanied by a fever and swollen glands, these could be signs of an infection such as strep throat or mononucleosis. To treat hives, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or steroid creams.
We hope this article has helped you to understand some of the common skin infections and how to treat them. Remember that if your symptoms persist, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible so they can assess what’s going on with your health.
