Bacterial skin infections can range in severity from being mild to life-threatening. A bacterial infection can take many different forms depending on its type, location, even the age of the affected person. More complex infections can be of concern and therefore it is always better to consult a doctor. Here, we are going to present you with a list of about 9 common bacterial skin infections that can be identified.
- Cellulitis
Cellulitis typically develops in areas where the skin has been broken, such as near bruises, ulcers, burns or recent surgical wounds. While many types of bacteria can cause cellulitis; Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are the most common culprits. If the cellulitis spreads to your bloodstream and lymph nodes, then it can be life-threatening. Seek help from a doctor, once you suspect this infection.
- Erysipelas
Erysipelas is caused by streptococcus bacteria and infects the top layers of the skin. Symptoms include extreme redness, swelling and a sharply defined border between the normal and the infected skin tissue. If the infection is severe or left untreated, it can cause the following complications:
- The bacteria might travel to the blood and affect the joints, heart valves and bones.
- Blood poisoning can occur due to bacterial infections.
- Bacterial infection might destroy some parts of the lymphatic system. This causes lymph to build up in the body. Lymphedema is a major risk factor for the recurrence of erysipelas.
- Recurrent erysipelas might occur at the same site of initial infection.
- There might be localised collections of pus-filled cavities on the skin (abscess).
- Facial erysipelas might cause meningitis.
Abscess and meningitis are more likely to develop where the bacterial infections spread to deeper layers of the skin.
- Bacterial Folliculitis
This is a bacterial infection of the hair follicles, which is caused by a fungus, ingrown hair or blockages from moisturizers or other products that are applied to the skin. While this infection heals on its own, there are chances of this infection causing permanent hair loss, if left untreated.
- Hot Tub Folliculitis
This skin infection is characterized by pus-filled bumps and an itchy red rash. The symptoms can develop between 12-48 hours after using a hot tub. (Source: American Academy of Dermatology Association) This skin infection can be contracted through contaminated hot tubs, water slides, whirlpools or even loofah sponges.
- Furuncles
Furuncles are a painful infection that forms around a hair follicle. This infection begins as a red lump, that may be tender at first but then rapidly fills with pus as it becomes enlarged. A furuncle can develop into an abscess, if left untreated.
- Carbuncles
A carbuncle is a cluster of several furuncles densely packed together. It can be as large as 4 inches across horizontally, and usually has more than one opening from where the pus can ooze into the skin. The most common cause of carbuncles is the staph bacteria and they usually develop on the thighs, back or the back of the neck. Carbuncles are contagious and have higher chances of spreading to other people and other parts of the body. And therefore, it is advised to seek medical attention on an immediate basis.
- Impetigo
Impetigo is a bacterial infection that is highly contagious and is more common in children than in adults. (Source: Wiley Online Library) The sores that are associated with this bacterial infection appear around the mouth and nose. But these can spread to other parts of the body through skin-to-skin contact, towels and clothing.
- Erythrasma
Erythrasma is a skin infection caused by the Corynebacterium minutissimum bacteria. This infection develops in areas where skin touches the skin, such as the armpits, groin or between the toes. Symptoms include skin lesions of well-defined pink patches covered with fine scales and wrinkling that becomes red, then brown and scaly.
- MRSA skin infections
MRSA skin infections is a serious bacterial infection that is resistant to standard antibiotic treatment. It will often cause a mild and ulcerative sore but can sometimes lead to serious infections. In most cases, MRSA can also spread through the bloodstream to infect the other organs, such as the urinary tract or the lungs.
If MRSA skin infections are not treated, they can spread from person to person and maybe contracted from the hospital, following surgery. Laboratory tests are done to diagnose MRSA.
Homeopathy for skin infections
Homeopathy has been treating millions of people affected by viral, bacterial and other infections for more than 200 years now. Homeopathy treatment is one of the most effective and best treatment methods as it is safe and is free from any toxic side-effects. Homeopathic remedies give long-term relief. Homeopathic remedies are not given on the type or the strain or the micro-organism or the presentation of the symptoms alone. Homeopathic medicines are given to the patient by considering certain factors such as medical history, behavior, nature and the temperament of the person. Hence, a customized homeopathic skin treatment plan is given by the homeopaths so the patients can deal with the infections in a more effective manner.
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