Skin Infection/Abscess/Cellulitis
Carbuncles/Furuncles/Abcess
Your skin is the first line of defense against external threats, and it protects your body from damage and illness. Because it comes into contact with so many substances, your skin is prone to a variety of infections from viruses, bacteria and fungi. Some of these are mild and will go away on their own or with over-the-counter treatments, but others are more serious and will require medical intervention.
Here are a few of the more common skin infections you might encounter:
-- Staph infections, which are bacterial infections often experienced by healthcare workers and others in the hospital environment. Most staph infections are fairly harmless, but certain strains of flesh-eating bacteria can cause very serious infections and even death if left untreated.
-- Carbuncles are clusters of painful boils that originate in infected hair follicles. They're most commonly found in the groin, armpits, arms, legs and chest where hair is thickest.
-- Impetigo is an infection that's more common in children than adults and is caused by bacteria. It's commonly seen around the lips, hands, forearms and diaper area of young children.
-- Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin that presents itself in a distinctive ring formation.
-- Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the moist areas between your toes. It's quite contagious and often spreads through the use of shared showering spaces.
The specific symptoms of a skin infection will vary depending on the pathogen responsible, but a few symptoms are common among many types of infection. These include itchiness, rashes and the presence of hives or pus-filled bumps on the skin. Some infections, like shingles, will be accompanied by fever.
Many skin infections occur when the hair follicles or pores become clogged and infected. Small wounds on the skin can also leave it vulnerable to infection. Maintaining good hygiene is one key to avoiding skin infections. Staying away from areas and products that may carry pathogens, such as public showers and expired cosmetics, can also reduce your chances of contracting a skin infection.
The treatment for a skin infection will depend upon the type and severity of the infection. Topical antibiotics or fungicides will kill most pathogens and provide relief. Steroidal creams can also help to reduce inflammation and manage itching. More serious cases, such as severe staph infections, may require oral or intravenous antibiotics.
Because there are so many different types of skin infections, and because skin disorders can sometimes be a symptom of other problems, it's always a good idea to get a doctor's opinion about any rash or unexplained bumps on your skin. This can help rule out any serious conditions while providing you with relief from the symptoms that ail you.