Impetigo: A Overview

Impetigo, a contagious bacterial skin infection can be fatal. It usually manifests in red bumps and sores across the skin, primarily on the arms and legs. However, it may also appear elsewhere on the body. Itchy lesions can become swollen and bleed, leaving behind a honey-colored crust. Impetigo can be caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniaes bacteria. However, other bacteria types may also contribute to it. Impetigo is more common in children than it can be in adults.

Depending on what type of infection, the symptoms of impetigo may vary. Red sores with fluidy crusts and yellow-brown spots, as well as itching and pain, are common signs of impetigo. It may be tender and swelling to the touch. Impetigo, if left untreated can spread to other areas of the body and to people.

Impetigo: Common Causes

Different types of bacteria can cause impetigo, such as Streptococcus aureus or Streptococcus pseudogenes. This bacteria is found in skin, Nose and other surfaces such as clothes and toys. These bacteria can spread to broken skin and cause infection.

Living in an area with poor hygiene and living in cramped conditions are all risk factors to develop impetigo. Because of the frequent contact between athletes in contact sports like rugby and football, impetigo is also more common.

Common Treatments For Impetigo

Impetigo treatment usually includes topical or oral Antibiotics . For more serious cases, oral antibiotics will be prescribed. However, milder cases may be managed with topical creams. Most antibiotics are very effective and should show improvement within a few days. Some cases of impetigo may be resistant to antibiotics. It is therefore important that you follow the prescribed medication.

There are home remedies to help speed up the recovery process from impetigo. To prevent infection spreading, it is important to keep the area dry and clean. Cold compresses can be applied to the area to relieve itching and reduce inflammation. To protect and moisturize the skin, you can also use zinc oxide cream or petroleum jelly. Avoid scratching the affected area as it can spread infection.

Considerations from professionals and experts

Roberta DeBiasi is a Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist at Children's National Hospital. She says impetigo can be treated easily and is typically a mild infection. She warns that impetigo can quickly spread and should be treated as soon as it occurs. To reduce impetigo risk, she recommends that you practice good hygiene, including washing your hands often and not sharing any personal belongings.

Dr. Sarah L. Stein of Northwestern Medicine says that impetigo can easily be treated using antibiotics. To ensure the complete elimination of the infection, she stresses the need to continue the course of antibiotics even though symptoms may have improved. To speed up healing, she recommends that you use over-the-counter remedies, like petroleum jelly.

Use natural remedies and tips

You can speed up your recovery by using natural methods and some tips. To prevent infection spreading, it is important to keep the area dry and clean. Cold compresses can be applied to the area to relieve itching and reduce inflammation. You can protect your skin from further injury by applying zinc oxide or petroleum jelly to the area.

Calendula and chamomile tea are some herbal remedies that may help reduce inflammation. Another natural treatment that can help reduce inflammation is honey. A healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can boost your immune system, and help speed up healing.

Conclusion

Impetigo can be a contagious, bacterial skin infection. It affects people of all ages. It's usually caused by Streptococcus pneumoniaes and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. It can be treated with antibiotics. Impetigo can be caused by poor hygiene and living in an area with high levels of stress. There are natural ways to help speed the recovery process from impetigo.

Impetigo, a common skin infection caused by bacteria, can easily be treated with antibiotics. As the infection is likely to spread rapidly, it's important that you seek immediate medical attention. It is important to practice good hygiene, including washing your hands often and not sharing any personal belongings, in order to lower the chance of impetigo. Aloe vera and calendula are natural remedies that can help reduce inflammation and speed up healing. A healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits can boost your immune system, and help you recover faster.