Bacterial infections of the skin are caused by a strain of Staphylococcus aureus or beta-hemolytic streptococcus. These infections can be treated with antibiotics. If the bacterial infection worsens, the affected area has to be surgically drained. Hence, a dermatologist should be consulted right away to get an accurate diagnosis and be prescribed the correct treatment.
The following are 3 commonly faced infections along with their cures:
|
Types |
Cause |
Symptoms |
Affected Area |
Cure |
Preventive Measure |
|
Cellulitus |
Scratches on the skin or from animal bites. |
Redness, pain, swelling in the infected area. |
Mostly affects the leg. |
Oral antibiotics or intravenous antibiotics. |
Apply lotion and maintain good skin hygiene. |
|
Folliculitis
|
Infection of the hair follicles |
A) Red pimples. B) Furuncles/Boils - deeper infections leading to pus in the follicles. C) Carbuncles - group of infected hair follicles. |
Any part of the body with hair such as the face, scalp, thighs, underarms, and groin area. |
Topical antibiotics or surgical cut and drainage in severe cases. |
Wash affected area with antibacterial soap, follow up with antibiotic ointment. |
Impetigo
|
Contagious skin infection. |
Tenderness, itching, sores, or blisters that burst and form a yellow crust. |
Children are susceptible to spread through direct contact. Different parts of the body like the face, arms, legs, armpits, neck folds, and diaper areas. |
Topical ointment or oral antibiotic. |
Avoid scratching the blisters or sores. Cut the fingernails and cover the affected areas with bandages or gauze.
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