Skin Infections
The skin is the largest organ of your body and one of its functions is to protect the body from infections. Sometimes, the skin itself can get infected due to a wide variety of germs and the symptoms can vary from mild to serious.
Mild skin infections can be treated with over-the-counter medications and home remedies while some other infections may require medical attention.
There are four different types of skin infections:
- Bacterial skin infections
Bacterial skin infections usually begin as small, red bumps which slowly increase in size. Some of them are mild and easily treated with topical antibiotics, but other infections require oral antibiotics. Types of bacterial skin infections include:
- Impetigo
- Cellulitis
- Boils
- Leprosy
Bacterial skin infections occur when bacteria enters the body through a break in the skin, such as a scratch or a cut. This mostly happens when you have decreased immune system which can be from the side effect of medication or an illness.
- Viral skin infections
These are caused by a virus and they range from mild to severe. They include:
- Chickenpox
- Shingles (herpes zoster)
- Warts
- Measles
- Molluscum contagiosum
- Hand, foot and mouth disease
The most common type of viruses come from one of three groups of viruses: human papillomavirus, poxvirus and herpes virus.
- Fungal skin infections
Fungal skin infections are caused by a fungus and they are most likely to develop in damp areas of the body, such as the feet or armpit. Some types of fungal skin infections aren’t contagious and they are typically non-life threatening. Types of fungal skin infections include:
- Yeast infection
- Athlete’s foot
- Ringworm
- Nail fungus
- Diaper rash
- Oral thrush
Lifestyle and body chemistry can increase the risk of fungal infection. Wearing wet or sweaty clothes is a risk factor for fungal skin infections. For example if you’re a runner or if you sweat a lot, you may experience multiple bouts of athlete’s foot.
- Parasitic skin infection
Parasitic skin infections are caused by a parasite and they can spread to the bloodstream and organs. These types of skin infections are not life-threatening but they can be uncomfortable. They include:
- Bedbugs
- Lice
- Scabies
- Cutaneous larva migrans
Symptoms of skin infections
Symptoms of skin infections vary depending on the type. The most common symptoms include redness of the skin and a rash. Other symptoms include itching, pain and tenderness.
If you have signs and symptoms of severe skin infection you should see a doctor immediately such as pus-filled blisters or a skin infection that gets progressively worse or does not improve. Symptoms of severe skin infections include:
- Blisters
- Pus
- Skin breakdown, sloughing
- Dark, necrotic-appearing skin, or skin that becomes painful and discoloured
Treatment
Treatment of skin infections depends on the cause of the infection and the severity. Some types of viral skin infections can improve on their own within days or weeks.
Bacterial skin infections are usually treated with topical antibiotics applied directly to the skin or with oral antibiotics. If the strain of bacteria is resistant to treatment, treating the skin infection may require intravenous antibiotics which are administered in the hospital.
Fungal skin infections are often treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams and sprays. If the condition doesn’t improve, your doctor can prescribe oral or topical creams.
Medicated creams are used to treat parasitic skin infections and in addition your doctor may also recommend anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce discomfort.
Book a consultation with Dr Ali Razzak, leading Family Medicine Consultant and Aesthetics Expert in Dubai to know your options, cost and the next steps.
- Address The Residences at Marina Gate 1 King’s College Hospital, Dubai Marina
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