Skin problems come from microbes like viruses, bacteria, fungi that infect your skin and the deep tissues. Skin infections can occur anytime through stings, cuts, piercings, bites, tattoos, or punctures. Some conditions occur at the skin’s surface, but sometimes they can go deeper. If the infection is minor, you can treat it at home; otherwise, it requires a doctor’s care.
Every skin problem has its symptoms and severity. Some signs of skin infections include red skin around the wound, blisters or sores, increased pain, swelling, leaking fluid or pus, feverishness, failure of wound healing even after a few days, etc. Sometimes eczema can result in skin infections because the breaks in the skin pave the path for the germs to enter into the skin.
Types And Causes Of Skin Infections
1. Impetigo
It is a highly contagious and common skin infection. It mainly affects infants and young children. First, you will notice reddish sores appearing on your face, especially around the mouth, nose, and extremities. After about a week, the source will burst and develop a honey-colored crust. The causative agent of this skin infection is strep or staph bacteria.
2. MRSA
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a problematic skin infection to treat due to its resistance to some antibiotics. This infection mainly spreads in hospitals, schools, healthcare facilities, etc. It is a bacterial infection in which painful red bumps like spider bites or pimples occur.
3. Ringworm
Though it has a worm in its name, it has nothing to do with worms. In this skin infection, you will notice the circular shape of the rash and raised sports that are dark in color. It is a fungal infection that can occur anywhere in the body and is itchy and red.
4. Boils
It is one of the most common types of skin infection, and the causative agent is staph bacteria. In this infection, you will notice your skin getting swollen and reddish, and pus develops over an oil gland or hair follicle, and if it breaks open, the pus-filled will drain out. It is a painful skin infection, and warm compresses can help the fluid drain.
5. Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a severe bacterial skin infection in which the skin appears red and swollen. The other thing is that it is excruciating and warm to the touch. It mainly affects the skin on the lower legs, but it also occurs on the arms, face, and other body areas. The main symptom of this skin infection is swelling.
Some Other Signs Of Developing Skin Infections Include
1. Rough Texture Or Flakes: When the skin gets dehydrated or loses moisture, it will begin to flake off. And this will result in a rough texture.
2. Dehydration: Dry skin means losing a lot of moisture; therefore, it becomes dehydrated. And the dehydrated skin will itch or have some fine lines.
3. Pain: If your skin gets cracked, dry, or raw, it will cause pain. Sometimes this painful sensation feels like a sting or burning.
4. Itching: Dry skin causes itching most of the time. And it can hinder your daily work. This itching will also interfere with your sleep.
5. Wrinkles: When the moisture is lost, the skin becomes wrinkled and develops a loose and rough texture.
6. Cracks: You will notice that the skin shrinks when it dries. It leads to cracks in the skin that can become deep and bleed.
Some warning signs are excess pain, swelling or redness that spreads rapidly, and high fever. If you notice that your skin is getting excessively dry with some of the above symptoms, immediately, you must start treating it. And if you think you might have a skin infection, it would be best to approach a doctor.
Some discomfort is normal but if you see fluid pus, crust around the painful area, or some other signs discussed above, then approach your doctor as soon as possible. Then your doctor will diagnose the skin infection by examining the affected area. They will also ask you about your signs and symptoms and advise lab tests to know the origins of the issue.
How Can You Treat Skin Infections?
It is always better to talk to a doctor if you have signs and symptoms of skin infection. The doctor will prescribe you some medicines according to the type of infection. If the causative agent is bacteria, the doctor will give you antibiotics. And to treat viral infections, it is likely they will prescribe antivirals and for treating fungal infections, antifungal creams, powders, pills, ointments, etc.
If you haven’t got a tetanus shot, then the breach in the skin may cause tetanus infection. So it’s better to take a booster shot if you need it after consulting your doctor. Treatment always depends on the cause of the condition and its severity. The doctor may also prescribe some anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the discomfort and inflammation. You can do certain things at your home to reduce skin infection symptoms, such as applying cold compression to your skin to relieve rash and itching or using ointments and topical creams for the same.
Measures To Prevent Skin Infections
First of all, the vital measure is maintaining personal hygiene. Make sure that you wash your hands properly using soap and warm water. Use clean towels as barriers while using shared surfaces such as room benches, exercise machines, pieces of equipment, etc. Do not forget to clean your clothes and take a shower after every workout. If you have any wound or minor cut on your skin, make sure to keep it clean and use antibiotic ointments, and cover the injury with a bandage. And if the wound is major or has stitches, then make sure to visit your doctor for proper care.
If you follow these preventative steps, you can reduce the chances of developing a skin infection. The skin infection can be mild or severe so never overlook even any minor sensation of discomfort. It is always better to keep yourself and your surroundings clean and visit a doctor for proper instructions.
Conclusion
Skin problems often become headaches and can hinder your daily work. Not only that, but it can also spread and cause pain and discomfort. It’s always better not to avoid any warning signs regarding your skin condition. Approach your dermatologist as soon as you feel that you have an urgent issue. Sometimes skin problems can also be related to some other health conditions. So early diagnosis is always a good thing for better treatment.
