Impetigo
- Keeping wounds clean and dry
- Covering broken skin areas
- Treating skin conditions like eczema
- Improving skin health
- Blood clots
- Gangrene
- Other infections
- Blood poisoning
- Abscess
Impetigo vs MRSA
MRSA is not a condition or a disease. It is a type of bacteria that is resistant to some commonly used antibiotics. MRSA is methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. Let’s look at impetigo vs MRSA in details. How are impetigo and MRSA related? Impetigo is commonly caused by S. aureus bacteria. Normally, these bacteria should respond to antibiotics regardless of their mode of action. At least that is what the several decades of antibiotics use has made us believe. In the last decade, there have been rising cases of bacterial infections that don’t heal with antibiotics. MRSA is a main cause of such bacterial infections. Although not in many cases, impetigo can be caused by MRSA. Why is MRSA more dangerous? To most of us, bacteria are these tiny organisms that cause different types of infections which we can easily treat with antibiotics. Some part of that is true but not all. Only a very small percent of bacteria are actually harmful. We in fact depend very heavily on different types of bacteria which we are in symbiotic relationship with. When penicillin was discovered in 1940s, it was a miracle drug. Many soldiers who had been injured in World War 2 were able to recover without fear of succumbing to infections. Over the years, bacteria have been developing ways to evade the effects of some forms of antibiotics. MRSA is one of the bacteria types that have found some success. [RELATED] Antibiotics such as penicillin, cephalexin and amoxicillin don’t work on MRSA. That is as scary as it seems. Currently, we don’t have very many different types of antibiotics. Bacterial resistance can therefore easily throw us back to days before antibiotics. That would mean mass deaths, with people succumbing to even very simple infections. To start with, intense surgery would almost become impossible. What does MRSA look like? Other than being resistant, MRSA infection is also hard to diagnose at first. It usually is taken for an insect or spider bite. Patients first develop a lesion which is usually tender and painful. Without treatment, the lesion becomes bigger and develops into an abscess. When MRSA causes localized infection, it is not serious to the extent of being fatal. Problems arise when infections occur deep into skin or in vital organs including bones. Impetigo treatment over the counter cannot cure MRSA infection. [post_title] => Impetigo vs Cold Sore, Herpes, Ringworm, Erysipelas, MRSA [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => impetigo-vs-cold-sore-herpes-ringworm-erysipelas-mrsa [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-04-14 19:03:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-04-14 19:03:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://skinanswer.com/?p=4953 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5310 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2018-04-14 15:53:52 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-04-14 15:53:52 [post_content] => Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin. It is commonly seen in children between ages of 2 and 6 years. Although highly contagious, impetigo is not considered serious. Complications such as blood poisoning and cellulitis can however occur when the infection is left without treatment. There are two major types of impetigo, bullous and nonbullous. The latter is more common and occurs mostly on face. Bullous impetigo is less common and occurs on buttocks, thighs and trunk. All the same, either type can appear anywhere in the body. Both types are caused by streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria. Not always is treatment necessary. Impetigo sometimes heals on its own. To avoid unnecessary risks, discomforts and complications, antibiotics are used as the primary treatment options. A valid prescription is required to access effective impetigo antibiotics. This article examines the commonly prescribed antibiotics for impetigo.Mupirocin for impetigo
Mupirocin for impetigo requires topical application. It is effective both on staph and strep infections, the two major impetigo causes. In fact, mupirocin also works on MRSA. Bactroban and Centany are the brand names it sells under. Use The drug comes in ointment form to be applied directly. Before application, affected areas should be washed clean and patted dry. Specific instructions on how to use it will be provided by your doctor. Normally, the ointment is supposed to be applied 3 times every day. Internal administration should not be attempted. It also should not be used inside eyes or mouth. Be careful when treating largely blistered areas or impetigo ear infection. [RELATED] Side effects and warnings It is common to experience several side effects when using most medications. In fact, side effects may be a sign that the medication is working. Most mupirocin side effects are tolerable. They may include;- Burning
- Irritation
- Stinging
Neosporin for impetigo
Neosporin is a medication used to keep bacterial infections from occurring in wounds, cuts and other types of skin injuries. The ointment can be used to prevent impetigo on buttocks in babies. It can be accessed over the counter.
Basics
Neosporin is derived by combining bacitracin, neomycin and polymixin. It basically is a combination of three different antibiotics. Combination medicines are stronger than individual drugs.
Use
Neosporin for impetigo should be used externally since it comes in form of ointment. For best results, wash your hands and the affected area before application. 1-3 times daily applications will get the job done. Your pharmacist will provide specific instructions on how the ointment should be used. Ensure not to use more or less than instructed. Since impetigo symptoms will most likely disappear before treatment period is over, medications should not stop being used. Incomplete use of antibiotics may lead to bacterial resistance and hence more aggressive infections.
Side effects and warnings
Rarely is Neosporin associated with intolerable side effects. Using the ointment more than instructed may cause skin irritation. It can also encourage fungal infections due to alteration of cutaneous flora. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications.
Amoxicillin for impetigo
Amoxicillin belongs in the class of penicillins. It works by inhibiting bacterial growth. Like other antibiotics, amoxicillin doesn’t work on infections caused by viruses or fungi. See impetigo vs ringworm treatments for more details. Use Amoxicillin for impetigo is to be taken by mouth in form of tabs or liquid medicine. Specific dosage measurement will be provided by your doctor. The drug can be taken with or without food. Since heavy and fatty meals reduce effectiveness of drugs, it is advisable to take meals 1 hour before taking the drug. Normally, amoxicillin is to be taken in intervals of 6 or 8 hours. Try taking your dosage in uniform intervals for better results. Make sure that all medications are taken as instructed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids to aid in absorption and working of the drug. Side effects and warnings Users often report side effects such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Check with your doctor if the side effects are to become intolerable. People who are allergic to penicillin should not use amoxicillin. Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to medications. [RELATED] Impetigo rash should improve gradually after starting treatment. If no improvements are noticeable by third day, check with your doctor. Using amoxicillin for long can alter vagina and oral flora. This may cause fungal infections in the vagina and mouth.Bacitracin for impetigo
Bacitracin is a topical ointment which can be used to treat impetigo. It mostly used to keep wounds and burns from becoming infected. The drug works by inhibiting bacterial growth.
Use
Your pharmacist or doctor will provide specific instructions on how bacitracin for impetigo should be used. Generally, patients should wash their hands and affected areas before application. The ointment is to be applied directly, 1-3 times a day. A loose dressing may be used to keep the medication from rubbing off. Internal administration or use inside eyes and mouth are not to be attempted.
Side effects and warnings
There are no serious side effects associated with bacitracin. Like a majority of topical antibiotics, patients may experience tingling, burning or stinging. Prolonged used may cause skin irritation.
Check with your doctor before starting treatment with bacitracin. Medical attention is also necessary in case of unexpected or severe side effects. By the third day of continued use, most symptoms should have disappeared. In fact, impetigo should have stopped being contagious. Consider change of medication if this is not the case.
Cephalexin (keflex) for impetigo
Cephalexin is a popular antibiotic. It works on a variety of bacterial infections. The medication doesn’t work on viral or fungal infections. In fact, prolonged use may cause fungal infections.
Use
Cephalexin for impetigo is to be taken by mouth. It may be in form of tabs or liquid medicine. When taking tabs, your doctor will provide correct dosage measurement. Normally, the drug is to be taken after every six or twelve hours. Heavy meals may reduce absorption, so taking meals about 1 hour before dosage is advisable.
When using liquid medicine, make sure to shake it well before use. In most cases, the bottle comes with a measuring spoon although you still can get one from your pharmacist. Make sure to get dosage measurement right for liquid medicine.
Side effects and warnings
Commonly reported side effects include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. They should be tolerable. Otherwise, stop taking medications and check with your doctor.
Tell your doctor if you are allergic to certain medications, especially penicillins. You should also tell if you have been diagnosed with kidney or intestinal disease. People with diabetes should be aware that liquid form of cephalexin may be having sugar. If you or your kid is planning to get immunized against bacterial infections, avoid taking cephalexin.
[RELATED]
Any discontinued use of antibiotics should be reported to your doctor. This is actually very important. Not taking medications as instructed can cause more aggressive infections or recurrent ones. Most patients are tempted to stop taking medications once symptoms have disappeared which can be of serious consequences. Read more on how long does impetigo last to know how long you should continue with treatment.
How to choose the best antibiotics for impetigo
When it comes to impetigo cure and medications to stop spreading, oral and topical treatments are considerable options. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of either? Topical treatments advantages- Affordable – topical medications are way more affordable. Bacterial infections are very common. This makes an expensive treatment option not so suitable for most people.
- Less dosage measurement – a thin coat applied directly to affected areas several times a day usually gets the job done. Sometimes, symptoms are gone even before the ointment is finished.
- Mild side effects – most topical antibiotics are not associated with serious side effects such as diarrhea and nausea. They do not alter intestinal flora. Crude side effects can prove a major issue when treating impetigo in kids.
- Cause irritation – a common side effect of topical medications is skin irritation. Continued irritation may result in mild skin injuries which can easily admit bacteria into the skin.
- Alter cutaneous bacteria – there are many types of bacteria to be found on the skin. Most of them are not harmful. Since topical antibiotics cause unselective destruction of bacteria, cutaneous flora is altered.
- Not effective for widespread infection – when dealing with infection that has spread or is causing systematic symptoms, it is almost not practical to use creams and ointments.
- Convenient – administration only requires swallowing of one or more tabs. This is very convenient especially when not indoors or when dealing with cases such as impetigo in dogs.
- Correct dosage measurement – oral medications come in well defined dosage measurements. With ointments for example, patients are required to apply a thin layer. Different people can always have different understandings to what that really means.
- Noninvasive – most oral medications can be taken with food. Patients don’t have to deal with cases of irritation and tissue damage.
- Serious side effects – when taking oral medications, there is always the possibility of intolerable side effects that should be reported to a doctor. Severe diarrhea and allergic reactions are good examples.
- Incomplete drug delivery – even when correct dosage measurement is taken, not all of it reaches the system. Some of it is lost in the digestive tract or flushed out by the liver.
- Expensive – although oral medics are more economical, they are perhaps expensive in most people’s perspectives.
Signs of early stages of impetigo
The two main types of impetigo are bullous and nonbullous. Bullous is the less common type. Both are caused by same pathogens but present with slightly different signs. Impetigo cream or ointment can be used on either. During beginning stage, nonbullous impetigo causes tiny red spots that may gain peripheral area but remain flattened. These spots are actually small blisters filled with clear yellowish fluid or pus. They mostly appear on face around mouth and nose but can also occur on arms, legs and basically anywhere on the skin. [RELATED] Bullous impetigo causes larger blisters. This type occurs when bacterial toxins cause a gap between the dermis and epidermis. As fluid and pus collect in the formed gap, much larger blisters than those of nonbullous impetigo form. These blisters may be painful and itchy. Bullous impetigo mostly appears on buttocks, trunk and thighs. Impetigo on arm is also more likely to be bullous. Early stages of impetigo also involve rupturing of blisters to release the fluid contained inside. The fluid contains a lot of impetigo causing bacteria. Direct contact with it can easily transmit infection. Once ruptured, blisters turn into sores which too are rich sources of bacteria. It is at this stage that impetigo is most contagious.Later and severe stages of impetigo
Once blisters are ruptured, honey-colored crusts form over. This indicates later impetigo stages near full recovery. The scabs prevent bacteria from being spread during direct skin contact. Full recovery normally occurs without scarring.
Severe impetigo stages are quite different. When impetigo is severe, it means that infection has reached deeper skin layers or has spread extensively. This is not uncommon in the case of impetigo baby infection.
A common severe form of impetigo is known as ecthyma. It is caused by the same bacteria responsible for impetigo. In the case of ecthyma, infection occurs much deeper in the skin. Deeper areas of ulceration occur which get covered by hard crusts. If the crusts are gently removed, red and mildly inflamed ulcerations will be uncovered. Pus usually oozes from the ulcers. Ecthyma usually leaves scars once healed.
Serious symptoms such as fever and nausea may indicate more severe infections like cellulitis. Such require medical treatment with antibiotics. Sometimes, impetigo may be caused by bacterial resistant to some antibiotics. Such infections do not easily resolve without specific oral antibiotics.
During impetigo stages of healing, blisters will crust over. There may be mild swelling and itchiness especially at edges.
How to tell mild impetigo from severe stage infection
In other words, when should you see a doctor for impetigo? As mentioned earlier, impetigo is most common in children. Children may not be able to tell when infection is getting out of hand. Parents should therefore closely monitor impetigo signs in affected children. Blistering is common even in mild impetigo. You may be able to see clear yellowish fluid ooze from the blisters. Once ruptured, red sores which may be slightly inflamed will develop. ‘Golden’ scabs soon form over the ruptured blisters. Severe stage impetigo presents with signs such as pain, swelling, redness, fever, chills and headaches. Below are complications of impetigo which may be indicated by such severe symptoms;- Cellulitis – this is a potentially dangerous bacterial infection of the skin. It develops deeper in the skin and therefore not contagious. Cellulitis is characterized by redness, swelling, tenderness and warmth. Affected areas may also develop red streaks or dark patches.
- Scarlet fever – scarlet fever mostly occurs as a complication of strep throat but can also be caused by severe impetigo on face. It causes a widespread pink rash accompanied by fever, vomiting and pain. Patients should keep from congested areas not prevent spreading the infection to others. The condition is treatable with antibiotics.
- Guttate psoriasis – guttate psoriasis usually develops as a complication of bacterial infections. It causes tiny crusty patches shaped like a drop. It is not contagious and is treatable with topical medications.
- Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome – this condition is caused by skin damage resulting from bacterial toxins. It causes large blistered areas, much like what happens with skin damage caused by hot water. Patients usually require immediate medical attention.
- Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis – it is not common for impetigo to cause this condition. It occurs when blood vessels that supply kidneys with blood become damaged by bacterial toxins. This results in signs such as blood in urine and swelling in face, tummy and feet.
- Septicaemia – this is a form of blood poisoning that occurs when bacterial toxins are released into the circulatory system. It should be treated as a medical emergency because patients can quickly go to septic shock and suffer systematic organ failure. Common signs include low blood pressure, diarrhea, rapid heart rate and confusion.
How long does impetigo last?
How long does impetigo last? Without treatment, impetigo can last up to 2 weeks. This period is significantly reduced when certain antibiotics are used. Antibiotics have been confirmed in clinical tests to effectively reduce the time it is required for impetigo to heal. The same cannot be said of disinfecting agents. Such may only succeed in keeping impetigo from spreading. [RELATED] Topical medications such as mupirocin are able to make symptoms go away faster when used on mild impetigo or when infection is localized to small areas. For severe or widespread infection, the same results may be achieved with oral medications such as clindamycin. Topical medications come with several advantages. For example, they require less dosage measurement compared to oral medications. They also do not alter intestinal flora and therefore do not cause side effects such as diarrhea and nausea. Main disadvantages include skin irritation and laborious application. Oral medications such as amoxicillin for impetigo come with the advantage of the fact that they are effective even on resistant bacteria. Administration is also not as laborious as with topical medications. Their main drawbacks are that they cause side effects such as diarrhea and nausea due to altered intestinal flora and require larger dosage measurements.
Using antibiotics without prescription may lead to bacterial resistance. Patients are always being advised to check with their doctors before using antibiotics. For years since their discovery, antibiotics have been highly successful in treating bacterial infection. It has been noted that aggressive strains of bacteria are emerging which do not respond to some antibiotics. This has been attributed to use of medications without prescription and not completing prescribed medications. Once resistant bacteria have mutated in one patient, they may be passed to several healthy individuals where they will multiply to give rise to more resistant bacteria.
Within a certain period of time, very aggressive infections that have to be treated with specific medications will develop. This is a major medical crisis that we should not the most we can to avoid. A world without antibiotics is synonymous to a world where a simple infection such as impetigo can prove fatal overnight. Check out more details on impetigo vs MRSA.
What are the causes of recurrent impetigo?
Recurrent impetigo can prove a vexing problem. Unlike skin conditions like atopic eczema, recent history of impetigo is not considered a risk factor. Recurrence in impetigo indicates a potential underlying issue.
A common cause of recurring impetigo is bacterial colonization in nasal passages. A good number of people carry staphylococcus bacteria in their noses without signs of illness. Occasionally, the established colonies may be source of bacteria that are causing skin infection. Antibiotic ointments are used to get rid of such bacteria.
Recurring infection may also be caused by incomplete treatment of a previous infection. When antibiotics are administered, they systematically destroy the bacteria causing infection. Not finishing medications means that some bacteria will be left behind. Due to influence of the immune system, smaller numbers of bacteria may not be able to cause infection. They will therefore take some time to regroup and multiply resulting in recurring infection.
Another possible cause of recurrent impetigo is weakened immune system. Normally, our bodies are able to recognize harmful bacteria and fight them off from the body. Diseases such as HIV and diabetes rob this natural ability from the immune system. As a result, bacterial infections may keep coming back even after initial successful recovery. Medications meant to manage chronic diseases which may compromise the immune system are available.
Constant presence of risk factors is yet another possible cause of recurring impetigo. Such risk factors include;
- Congested places – impetigo used to be very rampant in schools and day care centers. This is because the infection is highly contagious. If patients are not isolated and properly treated, the infection can keep recurring.
- Skin injuries – bacteria are very small. Even tiny skin injuries invisible to naked eye are excellent portals of entry that bacteria can take advantage of. People with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis may keep having recurring cases of impetigo.
- Poor hygiene – impetigo doesn’t always require direct skin to skin contact to be transmitted. Something as simple as sharing clothes, bed linen or towels can transmit the infection.
Why is impetigo contagious
How comes that impetigo is so easily transmittable? Why is impetigo contagious? First, we need to understand that impetigo is contagious in two manners. It can be passed to other people and it can be spread to elsewhere in the body. [RELATED] Impetigo develops very closely to the surface of the skin. This is why it is possible for the infection to begin on intact skin. Developing very closely to the surface of kin means bacteria can easily be picked from a site of infection or be deposited to a surface during contact. This is why impetigo is so contagious. Another reason is because impetigo blisters always burst open to release pus or fluid. Both the sore left behind and pus are rich sources of impetigo causing bacteria. Impetigo treatment cream can be used to reduce risk of spread. 2 days after starting treatment with antibiotics, impetigo is considered not contagious. [post_title] => Impetigo Stages: Early, Mild, Recurrent, Healing and How Long Does It Last [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => impetigo-stages-early-mild-recurrent-healing-and-how-long-does-it-last [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-04-14 19:12:02 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-04-14 19:12:02 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://skinanswer.com/?p=4949 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5308 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2018-04-14 15:53:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-04-14 15:53:26 [post_content] => Most of us know impetigo as a bacterial infection of skin that affects children. See what is impetigo for more details. Apparently, the infection also affects puppies especially during their teenage years. Impetigo in dogs is in fact way more common compared to impetigo pregnancy infection or impetigo herpetiformis. Many types of bacteria are ever so often to be found on skin, both in animals and humans. When certain factors are present, these bacteria may cause infection. This is what happens in the case of impetigo in dogs. For example, your dog may be sensitive to certain agents which trigger allergic reactions. Resulting skin irritation can cause tiny breaks on skin which in turn act as portals of entry for bacteria. If your dog or puppy has developed an itchy red rash on skin areas not covered with hair, it may be having impetigo. This is especially if no signs of systematic illness are present. The condition may resolve even without treatment. Regardless, antibiotics are important to avoid unnecessary risk of spread and other complications.What causes impetigo in dogs and puppies?
First of all, can dogs get impetigo? Yes they can. In fact, impetigo is not a rare skin condition in dogs. What exactly causes impetigo in dogs is not clearly understood. It is thought that skin injuries allow impetigo causing bacteria to reach superficial layer. Immune related disorders can also be to blame. Normally, the body is able to recognize and fight off harmful bacteria. When the immune system is compromised, bacteria can easily build colonies and cause infections. [RELATED] Fleas and other pests often cause tiny skin injuries that may not even be noticeable. Since bacteria are very small they can take advantage of such injuries to enter the skin. Some dogs have sensitive skins or are allergic to certain products. This too can cause flaws on the skin. Although other types of bacteria may be responsible for impetigo in dogs, staphylococcus bacteria are usually to blame. These are the same pathogens that cause impetigo in humans. Puppies are most commonly affected. In fact, the condition is sometimes referred to as puppy impetigo. Signs mostly appear on belly, groin area and armpit. These are areas not covered with hair. Puppies have delicate skin which is more susceptible to injuries. Their immune systems are also yet to encounter different forms of pathogens and hence not best suited to fight off infections. Mature dogs are not commonly affected by impetigo. When the infection occurs, it is likely that an underlying cause such as hormonal imbalance or allergic reaction is playing part.Signs and symptoms of puppy impetigo
So how can you tell if your dog is suffering from impetigo? One key feature is the fact that puppy impetigo shows up on areas not protected by hair. At first, tiny pustules or vesicles will appear. The pustules resemble small lumps filled with pus. Rupturing will quickly occur and soon crusts will form over the burst blisters.
Signs may also present as red rash. In place of blisters, you may notice areas of irritation with crusty patches. And does it itch? Sometimes, impetigo reaches deeper into the skin to a point of causing severe itchiness. Puppies or dogs will continue to scratch in attempt to relieve the itch. This may result in larger sores and hair loss which will only make infection worse.
Generally, signs and symptoms may include;
- Acne
- Rash
- Redness
- Crusty or scaly skin area
- Hair loss
- Blistering
- Mild inflammation
- Stress
- Scratching
Impetigo treatment for dogs
Dogs affected by impetigo undergo a lot of discomfort. Additionally, there is risk of spread to other dogs or even to humans. Impetigo is not considered a serious infection although veterinary services are important. A vet will conduct some tests to rule out conditions such as mange mites and ringworm. To confirm diagnosis, skin cytology may be conducted. Diagnosing your puppy may incorporate a total physical appraisal, medicinal foundation, research center testing, and imaging. The veterinarian will need to know whether your puppy has had any diseases or wounds as of late. [RELATED] Irregularities in behavior such as caused by hormonal imbalances will be important to note. It may be a good idea to prepare short notes on the puppy’s general medical history as well as the nature and timeline of symptoms. This will help the vet rule out conditions that may mimic impetigo. Additionally, recent changes in diet such as supplements and vitamins can cause some form of stress or depression in puppies. This too should be noted during diagnosis. In the end, the vet will conduct complete physical examination from head to tail. It is unlikely but skin cytology and imaging tests may be necessary. Less severe cases are sometimes left without treatment. Close monitoring will be necessary to ensure that symptoms do not worsen and that infection does not spread. Since more severe symptoms are mostly seen in teen puppies almost becoming adults, treatment with medications is often reserved for such cases.
Topical medications are often enough to get rid of impetigo in dogs. The vet will prescribe the best creams or ointments to use after diagnosis. These may be accompanied by antiseptic washes just to ensure that infection is gotten rid of completely.
Severe cases may not respond to topical medications. In that case, oral dosages or IV medications will be given. These are usually reserved for much serious cases such as when impetigo is suspected to be caused by MRSA.
Generally, impetigo treatment for dogs is done with;
- Shampoos – medicated shampoos are meant to keep impetigo from spreading. They flush out bacteria that may have accumulated on surfaces where they can easily be picked or where they may cause infection to adjacent areas. Since there are many varieties of medicated shampoos, ask your vet for help in choosing the best.
- Topical medications – this come in creams and ointments. They are to be applied directly to affected areas. Over the counter ointment for impetigo lack the strength required to effectively get rid of staph infections. The better choice is to use prescription medications such as mupirocin. Ointments are thicker than creams. They may be better suited to treat more severe infections. Common side effects of topical medications include burning, redness and irritation. These are in most cases tolerable.
- Antibiotic dosages – if the vet finds it necessary, they will prescribe oral medications. These work by systematically controlling bacterial growth and spread. Unlike topical antibiotics, oral dosages are to be taken for longer. Commonly used drugs include clindamycin, cephalexin and amoxicillin for impetigo. Some of these are effective even in bacteria types resistant to some antibiotics. For comparison, see staph impetigo vs MRSA
Puppy impetigo treatment at home
You may be able to treat impetigo in your puppy at home without antibiotics. Apply benzoyl peroxide or hydrogen peroxide to affected areas twice in a day and for three days. This treatment is primarily meant to keep infection from spreading rather than treating it. Since impetigo infections go away on their own, preventing spread may be enough. Close monitoring should be done to ensure that symptoms are not worsening. It is common for affected puppies to keep scratching or biting affected areas due to itching. Scratching and biting are classic ways to aggravate symptoms of impetigo as well as spread causative bacteria. [RELATED] Severe symptoms should be addressed by a vet. Antibiotics will be used to control bacterial growth and prevent potential complications. Remedies such as tea tree oil and white vinegar may prove helpful especially in controlling spread and alleviating symptoms. These remedies mostly work in humans. But since the basic idea is the same, there is no reason why they should not work on puppy impetigo. Tea tree oil for example works by reducing inflammation and controlling bacterial growth. White vinegar may reduce itchiness as well as make it inhospitable for bacterial growth.How long does puppy impetigo take to heal?
If the infection is indeed impetigo, you don’t have to worry about losing the puppy. Impetigo is not serious and rarely causes death. It however can prove a notorious source of distress. The puppy may lose weight and worsen the infection by biting and scratching.
How long does impetigo last? Impetigo in dogs can go for a few weeks without treatment. But with treatment, the infection usually lasts for less than 10 days. Continued biting and scratching may lead to scarring once impetigo blisters are healed.
Avoid treatment at home if you are not sure what the cause of infection is. Using antibiotics for the wrong purpose can result in bacterial resistance where infections become more aggressive and much harder to treat.
You can prevent impetigo in dogs by maintaining cleanliness and avoiding products that may cause allergic reactions or irritation. In case your puppy is showing signs of a different infection, check with a qualified vet.
Possible complications of puppy impetigo
The main complication is possibility of spread and more serious infection. The reason why impetigo is not considered serious is because it occurs in upper skin layers. This makes it improbable that bacterial toxins will reach blood and lymphatic vessels. Without treatment, deep surface pyoderma may result. [RELATED] Infected puppies can also spread infection to healthy dogs and pets. Spread to humans is not common and mild when present. The problem with spreading bacterial infections is that they tend to be more aggressive and resistant to medications. This is especially if antibiotics have been improperly used. Other complications may include systematic illness such as caused by severe impetigo infections. This is assuming that diagnosis has confirmed that it indeed is impetigo being dealt with. Impetigo prevention in dogs plays an important role in overall treatment. Your vet may suggest better methods based on diagnosis reports and current condition of the affected puppy. [post_title] => How Dogs and Puppies Get Impetigo: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => how-dogs-and-puppies-get-impetigo-signs-symptoms-treatment [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-04-14 19:14:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-04-14 19:14:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://skinanswer.com/?p=4947 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5307 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2018-04-14 15:53:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-04-14 15:53:13 [post_content] => Impetigo is a bacterial condition of the skin that is most common in children and highly contagious. Generally, it is not considered a serious infection. Complications can however occur when the infection is left without treatment. First signs of impetigo present as tiny vesicles which quickly develop into blisters and crust over to form honey-colored scabs. Once scabs have formed, impetigo becomes largely noncontiguous. The blisters usually heal without leaving scars. Frequent scratching increases the risk of scarring. Antibiotics are mainly used for treatment. These are available in form of oral and topical medications. Oral medications are reserved for more serious cases such as when impetigo has led to cellulitis or where creams and ointments are not effective. Home treatments and remedies can also be used to improve impetigo symptoms, treat infection or prevent spread. This article discusses impetigo pregnancy relationship and the type referred to as impetigo herpetiformis.Impetigo pregnancy relationship
Causes Impetigo is mainly caused by staphylococcus bacteria and streptococcus bacteria. Not all strains of these bacteria cause the infection however. Infection mostly occurs around an injured skin area. In people with weakened immunity or in infants, infection can start on intact skin. This is not common. [RELATED] Being pregnant doesn’t increase your chances of becoming infected. The perhaps main complication is the possibility of passing bacteria to the infant after birth. About 25% of healthy people carry staphylococcus bacteria on their skins, especially in the area between anus and genitals. Since immune system in infants is not as strong as in healthy adults, bacteria picked from mother during birth can cause infection. Symptoms
There are no specific impetigo symptoms that only appear in pregnant women. The infection presents with tiny blisters which quickly burst and crust over.
Nonbullous impetigo is the more common type. Its main difference compared to bullous impetigo is that it causes smaller blisters which usually heal without scarring. Bullous impetigo occurs a bit deeper in the skin. In its final stages, it forms dark scabs which may leave scars after recovery. Bullous impetigo mostly occurs on buttocks, thighs, legs and groin.
If infection becomes serious, symptoms of systematic illness may occur. Such include swollen lymph nodes, fever and nausea. It is possible that such symptoms will associated with hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.
Treatment
Impetigo is treated with topical or oral antibiotics. Pregnant women should always get a prescription before buying medications. One of the reasons why a prescription is necessary is because over the counter drugs are not always strong enough to treat staph and strep infections. Continuous use of such medications can lead to more aggressive forms of impetigo that do not respond to commonly used antibiotics.
Another reason why using over the counter medications during pregnancy is not a good idea is because some medications can cause harm to unborn babies. Antibiotics such as clindamycin, amoxicillin and erythromycin which are commonly used for bacterial infections are considered safe to use during pregnancy.
Impetigo herpetiformis causes, symptoms and treatment
Impetigo herpetiformis is a rare condition that is similar to pustular psoriasis. The condition commonly affects women during pregnancy, especially in the final stages. The total number of impetigo herpetiformis reported is less than 200. Causes Herpes virus is not the cause of impetigo herpetiformis. It is mostly thought to be caused by pregnancy. It also may be triggered by a type of psoriasis that is commonly caused by pregnancy. The rash that results can be taken for herpes sores. See impetigo vs herpes for comparison. [RELATED] The exact reason why impetigo herpetiformis occurs mostly during pregnancy is not known. It may be one of the various skin changes that face pregnant women. It could also be associated with low levels of calcium since women diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism are thought to be more susceptible. Since not many cases of impetigo herpetiformis get diagnosed, enough data on its causes is generally lacking. Some experts think the condition has something to do with gene mutation. However, patients usually don’t have family histories of the condition and don’t manifest symptoms outside pregnancy. Symptoms
Most symptoms occur after week 26 of pregnancy or what is known as third trimester. They present as areas of redness on skin that resemble pustules. There may be ulceration in the middle of the pustules the more peripheral area is gained. Burning and itching usually occur.
Patients usually develop symptoms of systematic illness such as fever, chills, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. If impetigo herpetiformis is to recur, it comes back more aggressive than the last time.
Symptoms usually appear on skin areas that rub against each other. The condition then gradually spreads to arms, legs and trunk.
Treatment
Before treatment, diagnosis is required to rule out conditions such as PUPPP or PUPPS. Doctors are usually able to identify impetigo herpetiformis from during physical examination.
Treatment is done with oral steroids. It is the only type of psoriasis that can be completely treated with steroids. Some people do not tolerate steroids very well. In that case, alternatives such as home treatments and use of antibiotics will be considered. Doctors also monitor the levels of calcium and albumin in patients.
Without treatment, impetigo herpetiformis may cause still births. Patients should talk with their doctors immediately after discovering first symptoms.
How to prevent impetigo during pregnancy
People get impetigo after coming into direct skin to skin contact with an infected person or with a contaminated surface. If such contact is avoided, the infection can be prevented. Adults don’t usually get impetigo since their immune systems are able to fight off invading bacteria before they can build colonies. In newborns, children and old people, this is not always the case. [RELATED] Pregnancy doesn’t lower the immune system. It is therefore very unlikely that impetigo will occur due to the sole reason that a woman is pregnant. This is with exception of impetigo herpetiformis. If you are near an infected person, care should be taken to avoid picking impetigo causing bacteria. Below are certain factors that predispose people to impetigo;- Age – children between 2 and 6 years of age are most susceptible. This is especially if they attend school or day care centers. Impetigo in adults is mostly seen in older people.
- Poor hygiene – every so often, we pick bacteria of all types from different surfaces. These bacteria can easily be flushed out by washing hands with medicated soap and water. Additionally, sharing personal items such as towels, bed linen and clothes is a classic way to spread bacteria from one person to another.
- Weakened immunity – our bodies are able to recognize and fight off invading harmful bacteria before they can cause infection. People diagnosed with diseases such as diabetes, HIV and cancer sometimes lack strong immunity and therefore get predisposed to infections. A good approach to avoid this is by taking medications meant to manage such diseases.
- Congested places – the more people you get to close contact with, the larger number of bacteria and other microbes you are likely to pick. There are chances that impetigo causing bacteria will be among the pathogens to be picked.
- Skin injuries – bacteria on the skin rarely cause infections. Conditions on skin are not always right for bacterial growth. Inside the skin, there are nutrients that bacteria require to proliferate. This added with the fact that it is warm and wet inside the skin makes it very susceptible to infections. Skin injuries can be managed by dressing with bandages and using medications for skin conditions like eczema, chicken pox, herpes and boils in the case of impetigo armpit
- Certain sports – sports like football and wrestling involve direct contact. Bacteria can easily be passed from one person to another during such sports.
- Frequently wash hands – this works by flushing out bacteria that may have been picked from various surfaces. Medicated soap is better suited to get the job done.
- Good hygiene habits – if a household member has been diagnosed with impetigo, ensure to wash their clothes, bed linen and towels every day. These items should not be shared even after being washed.
- Dress blisters and wounds – infected areas that have formed blisters or sores should be washed and covered with a light preferably waterproof dressing. This prevents direct contact as well as leaking of pus from the blisters.
- Keep nails short – bacteria can hide in long nails after scratching infected areas. Patients should keep their nails short to avoid this.
- Keep children from attending school – schools are a perfect place for impetigo to get passed from one kid to another. Parents are advised to keep their children at home until complete recovery.
- Use medications – medications don’t only make recovery faster but also reduce risk of spread. With medications, impetigo is only contagious for about 3 days after which scabs form. In final stages of impetigo, the infection is not highly contagious. See how long is impetigo contagious for more details.
- Try natural treatments - natural remedies for impetigo such as tea tree oil and white vinegar may prove helpful.
Complications of impetigo
Most patients recover from impetigo without complications. Without treatment, the infection can persist for up to 10 days. This period significantly reduces with medications. Following are potential complications of impetigo;
Scarring
Normally, impetigo blisters do not cause scarring. Scratching or leaving impetigo sores to go untreated may result in large ulcerated areas which leave scars after recovery.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is another bacterial infection of the skin. Unlike impetigo, it occurs much deeper in the skin and is not contagious. Cellulitis presents with red, swollen and tender skin areas. It is usually treated with antibiotics but pain and anti-inflammatory medications can be used to relieve symptoms.
Scarlet fever
Scarlet fever is rare and usually a complication of strep throat or even impetigo on neck. Like impetigo, it is considered not serious but contagious. It main signs are widespread pink rash, fever, pain and nausea. Antibiotics are primarily used for treatment. Patients should be kept in isolation to avoid spread.
[RELATED]
Septicaemia
This is a serious condition caused by blood poisoning resulting from toxins released by bacteria. Patients experience symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, clammy skin, confusion, low blood pressure and fever. Medical attention should be sought immediately to avoid septic shock and possible death.
Guttate psoriasis
This is a non-infectious condition of the skin that mostly develops in children as a complication of bacterial infections. It is characterized by tiny, red and scaly patches. The condition is easily treatable with creams or ointment for impetigo.
Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis
This is a rare condition caused by damage to blood vessels that supply blood to kidneys. It is characterized by blood in urine and widespread swelling.
Like in humans, impetigo treatment for dogs and pets is important. This is because the same bacteria that cause impetigo in animals cause the same in humans.
[post_title] => Impetigo During Pregnancy, Herpetiformis and How to Prevent
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[post_content] => Impetigo is a bacterial skin condition that mostly occurs in children. They are two types, bullous and nonbullous impetigo. Their main difference is that the former results in larger blisters which are more likely to cause scarring.
The infection presents with vesicles or pustules which quickly break open and crust over to form honey-colored scabs. See impetigo early stage pictures for illustrations. Even without treatment, the blisters often heal without scarring. Scratching increases the risk of getting scars where impetigo blisters have healed.
Bacterial infections are primarily treated with antibiotics. The same applies to impetigo. Patients are advised to seek medical attention since OTC drugs aren’t always effective in completely getting rid of harmful bacteria. No one general treatment therapy is agreed upon. Doctors use a wide variety of medications as well as disinfecting agents for treatment. This article examines common impetigo medicine, including their side effects.
List of topical antibiotics for impetigo
Mupirocin Mupirocin is applied directly on affected skin. It works by inhibiting a certain enzyme required in the synthesis of proteins essential for bacterial growth. The drug has been in conventional use since late 1980s. [RELATED] Patients are required to have a prescription to access mupirocin. It is available in the brand names Bactroban and Centany. It also is available as a generic drug. Side effects of mupirocin include;- Stinging
- Burning
- Itchiness
- Pain
Retapamulin is an FDA approved topical antibiotic for impetigo. It can be used even in children over 9 months old. The drug works by inhibiting the process by which proteins are synthesized in bacteria. To avoid bacterial resistance, it is very important that Retapamulin be only used when diagnosis has confirmed that infection is indeed bacterial.
Retapamulin side effects may include;
- Burning
- Swelling
- Redness
- Itching
- Irritation
- Nausea
Advantages and disadvantages of topical antibiotics for impetigo
Once diagnosed with impetigo, a patient can choose between oral and topical antibiotics. Below are the reasons why topical medications may be a better choice;- Easy to apply – in a complete impetigo definition, you will learn that it is an infection of superficial layer. Topical medications only require directly administration. This can prove particularly advantageous especially when dealing with impetigo in children. After application, a loose bandage or dressing can be used to keep the medication in place.
- Reduced risk of severe side effects – topical medications do not interact with internal body systems such as circulation and digestion. It is therefore unlikely that side effects such as nausea and vomiting will occur.
- More active ingredient – oral medications are sometimes not absorbed fully especially after a heavy or fatty meal. This means that patients may not get full dosage measurement as recommended. In the end, complications such as bacterial resistance may occur.
- More affordable – impetigo treatment cream or ointment is generally more affordable in terms of cost compared to oral impetigo medicine.
- Bacterial resistance – although bacterial resistance is also observed with oral medications, it is more likely and common with topical medications.
- Disruption of cutaneous flora – not all bacteria are harmful. In fact, a majority of bacteria found on the skin are beneficial. Topical antibiotics do not have a mechanism to differentiate between good and bad bacteria. As a result, even good bacteria are destroyed once topical medications are applied.
- Possibility of allergic reactions – a common side effect of topical antibiotics is skin irritation. Irritation is on the other hand a common trigger of a skin condition known as atopic eczema.
List of oral antibiotics for impetigo
Amoxicillin Amoxicillin for impetigo is used with clavulanate. The two work by controlling bacterial growth. A doctor should instruct these drugs are to be taken. This is because the ratios in which the two are mixed may differ depending on drug measurement. [RELATED] Clindamycin Clindamycin is a common antibiotic. It is reserved for serious cases such impetigo ear infection. Common dosage measurement is 300 to 600 mg to be taken every 6 to 8 hours. Cephalexin (Keflex)
Cephalexin belongs in the class of first-generation cephalosporins. It is commonly used to treat bacterial infections including cellulitis and impetigo. The drug works by stopping growth of bacterial cell wall. Cephalexin also works on bacteria resistant to erythromycin.
In adults, the common dosage is 500mg to be taken after every 6-8 hours for 10 days. This dosage measurement differs in children.
Most patients find cephalexin tolerable. Inform your doctor if you are allergic to penicillin.
Dicloxacillin
Dicloxacillin is another commonly used antibiotic for treatment of different bacterial infections. It is available with prescription. Patients who are allergic to penicillin should not use Dicloxacillin. Common dosage measurement is 250mg to be taken every 6 hours. Side effects may include throat irritation, less urine, nausea and headaches.
Advantages and disadvantages of oral impetigo medicine
Advantages- Oral medications are more effective on serious infections.
- They are better suited to treat impetigo caused by MRSA and other strains of resistant bacteria.
- Their application is not as laborious as of topical medications.
- They do not interfere with cutaneous flora.
- More likely to cause more severe side effects such as nausea and vomiting. This is due to potential alteration of intestinal flora.
- Require higher dosages for maximum effects.
- Generally more expensive.
Impetigo treatment over the counter
There are different brands of creams, ointments and products available for impetigo treatment over the counter. However, no professional will advise you to go for such. Impetigo is caused by staphylococcus and streptococcus bacteria. These bacteria are common but unfortunately not easy to treat without the appropriate antibiotics. Buying an ointment for impetigo over the counter can for example result in bacterial resistance or infection recurrence. Every time we use antibiotics, we give bacteria a chance to develop mechanisms with which to resist treatment with antibiotics.
When patients finish their medications, all bacteria are destroyed. This means that resistance genes will not be passed to a next generation. Over the counter medications do not always come with specific instructions on how to use.
Diagnosis is an important part of treatment. It ensures that medications are given for the right purpose. Since over the counter medications can be taken without diagnosis, patients may end up taking antibiotics unnecessarily. This is another issue that leads to bacterial resistance.
The bottom line is that over the counter treatment for impetigo is not recommended. In any case, conventional treatment usually takes less than 10 days. The same bacteria that cause impetigo in humans cause the infection in animals. This means that even in cases such as dog or puppy impetigo infection, a vet should be approached.
A much similar case is encountered when dealing with herpes. Herpes is a viral disease and therefore has no cure. Available treatment options seek to manage its symptoms as well as to promote faster recovery. Without treatment, herpes sores can last up to 2 weeks. This period significantly drops with medications. See impetigo vs herpes treatments for comparison.
How to treat impetigo at home
Impetigo is highly contagious and quite common. It is the most diagnosed skin infection in children. Fortunately, many cases can be improved or treated with home treatments and remedies. Here is how to treat impetigo at home; Use home remedies Home remedies such as tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar are popularly known for their antimicrobial properties. They may help control growth of the bacteria responsible for impetigo. Essential oils can also prove helpful especially if impetigo is resulting from conditions such as eczema caused by skin dryness. It is always important to get exact details on how a certain home remedy should be used before application. Home remedies are considerable choices when treating impetigo on back or on legs. [RELATED] Control transmission The bacteria that cause impetigo often launch invasions once inside the skin. It is possible but rare for impetigo to begin on intact skin. Transmission can be controlled by covering affected areas, keeping wounds clean and using treatment medications. See how long is impetigo contagious for more details. Know the risk factors People get impetigo mainly after direct skin to skin contact with an infected person. Healthy adults can carry causative bacteria without signs of illness. This may result in infection in infants. Not everyone who comes into contact with impetigo bacteria gets infected. Certain factors such as weakened immunity, age, congested places and skin injuries increase the risk of getting infected. Fortunately, most of these risk factors can be improved with impetigo natural treatment. Learn how to prevent impetigo A number of practices and measures are available for impetigo prevention. For example, keeping nails short ensures that bacteria are not picked from the site of infection to elsewhere in the body. Washing bed linen and clothes helps prevent spread of infection from one household member to another. Keeping infected kids out of school keeps infection from being passed to others. [post_title] => Medicine for Impetigo: Antibiotics, Cream, Ointment and OTC Drugs [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => medicine-for-impetigo-antibiotics-cream-ointment-and-otc-drugs [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-04-14 19:22:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-04-14 19:22:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://skinanswer.com/?p=4943 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5305 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2018-04-14 15:52:47 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-04-14 15:52:47 [post_content] => There are two major types of impetigo. These are bullous and nonbullous. Both are most common in children but also occur in adults. While staph infections are the main causes, strep infections can also be responsible. Impetigo in adults can occur anywhere in the body but mostly on face, arms and trunk. Since it is highly contagious, the skin infection easily passes from one person to another and may spread to elsewhere in the body. First symptoms begin with vesicles that quickly break and ooze a clear yellowish fluid. Afterwards, honey-colored crusts form. Healthy adults do not always require medical attention. Symptoms improve within a period of about 10 days. Regardless, treatment is necessary to prevent complications of impetigo and spread. Antibiotics are the best lines of defense against impetigo although a variety of home treatments are also available. This article discusses the main causes of impetigo in adults, types and how it is treated.What causes impetigo in adults?
What causes impetigo in adults? How do you get impetigo? In most cases, staphylococcus bacteria are the cause. These bacteria are usually picked from an infected person or surface. Open sores and pus from impetigo blisters are richest in causative bacteria. Sharing personal items such as clothing, bed linen and clothes can also transmit impetigo causing bacteria. [RELATED] Not everyone develops signs of impetigo after coming into contact with causative bacteria. Some factors make it more likely that a certain person will or will not contract infection. These are known as risk factors. They include; Skin injuries Bacteria are almost everywhere. Now and then, we pick harmful bacteria from other people and contaminated surfaces. The main reason we don’t get sick is because the tough outer skin layer provides protection. The immune system on the other hand fights off any pathogens that may have gotten better of skin barrier. When there are injuries or points of weakness such as caused by cuts, wounds, cracks and conditions like eczema, bacteria easily reach superficial skin layers where they multiply and release toxins which cause infection. Congested places Impetigo is highly contagious. Being in congested places increases one’s chances of coming into direct skin to skin contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. This is more common in children attending school or day care centers. Certain sports Sports such as football and wrestling which allow skin to skin contact make it easier for bacteria to be picked off the surface of an infected person. Sharing towels after swimming or gym classes can also spread the infection. Humid and warm weather conditions Bacteria do well in warm and wet conditions. In fact, this is the reason as why impetigo rarely begins on intact areas of skin. They have to reach superficial layer where conditions are warm, wet and nutritious. Incidence rate is higher during summer. Weakened immunity Adults who have been diagnosed with diseases like diabetes and HIV often suffer from weakened immune system. This makes infections more common and aggressive in them. Medications such as mupirocin for impetigo are helpful in controlling bacterial growth so that the immune system can take charge.Nonbullous impetigo signs and symptoms
Nonbullous impetigo is the more common type which is highly contagious. It most often is caused by staphylococcus aureus. Group A streptococcus bacteria may also be responsible. In industrialized countries, impetigo mostly results from staph infection.
In adults, bacteria are usually picked after extensive contact with a contaminated surface or an infected person. Having skin conditions such as eczema or minor traumas increases chances of infection. Sometimes, the traumas that allow infection into the skin are not even noticeable.
It is rare for nonbullous impetigo in adults to begin on intact skin. This is more common in kids and older people with weak immunity.
Signs and symptoms
Incubation period lasts between 3 and 10 days after contracting infection. Nonbullous impetigo presents with tiny pustules or vesicles which quickly develop into sores, break open and release a clear yellowish fluid. Afterwards, honey-colored crusts form on the affected areas.
[RELATED]
Blisters mostly appear on face, mostly around mouth and nose. Arms and legs may also become infected or any other body area.
It is when nonbullous impetigo blisters are burst open that the infection is most contagious. Coming into direct contact with the open sores or oozing fluid can easily transmit infection.
Since impetigo is not a serious disease, it rarely causes symptoms of systematic illness such as fever, nausea and swollen lymph nodes. When these symptoms occur, they are mild. Severe systematic symptoms may be indications that complications of impetigo have occurred. It can also be that another infection is being confused with. See impetigo vs herpes for details.
Bullous impetigo in adults
Bullous impetigo is the less common type. It is mainly causes by staphylococcus aureus. When these bacteria enter the skin, they release toxins which cause a gap between the epidermis and dermis. These are the two uppermost layers of the skin. Fluid collects in the formed gap to produce a blister much larger than in nonbullous impetigo. The blisters can reach 3 cm in diameter.
In adults, bullous impetigo can occur in intact skin. Having weak immunity or being constantly in contact with causative bacteria increase the risk of catching infection.
Like in the case of nonbullous impetigo, bullous impetigo blisters also burst and crust over to form dark scabs. This marks final stages of impetigo. Larger blisters may cause scarring but can be avoided by learning how to treat impetigo.
Ecthyma impetigo causes, signs and symptoms
Ecthyma is a more serious type of impetigo. Impetigo blisters are localized to the epidermis. They do not get deep enough to reach the dermis. With ecthyma, ulcers develop below crusted blisters. The ulcers penetrate beyond the epidermis into the dermis. Regardless, the same bacteria that cause impetigo are responsible for ecthyma. Causes Anyone can get ecthyma. In children and older people, risk of infection is much higher since their immune systems are not as strong as in healthy adults. Warm and humid weather conditions make it more suitable for bacteria to build and sustain colonies. More bacteria mean more toxins which in turn increase intensity of infection. People living in tropical areas are therefore more predisposed to ecthyma. The infection is also more common during summer. Other risk factors include poor hygiene and skin injuries. Patient who fail to seek medical attention for impetigo may not recover completely or in time. This makes it more likely that infection will become more intense to the extent of reaching the dermis. Signs and symptoms At first, a tiny blister appears which may be surrounded by inflamed skin. The blister quickly burst and gets covered by a hard crust. If the crust is to be removed, a deep ulcer will be uncovered. These ulcers sometimes resolve on their own but leave a scar behind. Ecthyma mostly results from bullous impetigo. It for this reason is most common on buttocks, feet, legs and thighs. Swelling of lymph nodes may occur. [RELATED] Treatment is usually necessary for ecthyma. If not treated, patients risk complications such as scarring and more serious infection. Primary treatment option is with antibiotics. Depending on severity of infection, impetigo treatment cream or oral medications will be given. Conditions or diseases that may have caused ecthyma should also be treated to avoid recurrence. Home remedies such as tea tree oil may help in treatment of impetigo on legs.Impetigo staph infection and strep impetigo
Impetigo staph infection is the more common type. It is caused by staphylococcus aureus. In most cases, these bacteria are only able to launch an invasion once admitted into the skin by skin injuries or discontinuities. About 25% of all healthy people carry S. aureus on their skins and nose without any signs of illness. When infection occurs, it may be inform of boils, infected acne, pimples or impetigo. Since these infections are mild, patients rarely experience symptoms of systematic illness. Strep impetigo is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Group A streptococcus. Healthy people sometimes carry these bacteria in their throats or skin without signs of illness. During direct contact, the bacteria are picked and may proceed to cause mild infections such as impetigo or strep throat. These bacteria are at times able to cause infection on intact skin. Strep impetigo has a shorter incubation period. Patients experience first symptoms one to three days after contracting infection. The type of bacteria causing infection cannot be identified through symptoms and signs. Fluid or tissue cultures have to be taken. But since both these bacteria types respond to antibiotics, cultures are usually not necessary. This includes cases of impetigo herpetiformis.What is MRSA impetigo?
There have been growing concerns among experts that bacteria are increasingly becoming resistant to commonly used antibiotics. What this means is that we may be heading back to the pre-antibiotics era, where a small infection could prove fatal overnight.
MRSA is a good example of bacteria types that are growing resistant to antibiotics. In full, MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. These bacteria are not resistant to all antibiotics however. They only don’t respond to a class of antibiotics in the class of penicillins.
How it spreads
MRSA passes from one person to another during direct skin contact. It can also be picked from contaminated surfaces. Pets and animals can also transmit infection. See more here can dogs get impetigo?
[RELATED]
It is common to find MRSA infections in body areas covered by hair. Once contracted, it results in a small, red, swollen and warm lump on the skin. The lump is filled with pus which carries a lot of MRSA bacteria. Coming into contact with the pus can easily transmit infection.
How is MRSA treated?
MRSA is not the only type of bacteria to exhibit resistance to some antibiotics. When bacteria are resistant, it means that medications that are supposed to work on them stop having an impact. One of the main causes of bacterial resistance is incomplete use of antibiotic prescription medications. When patients fail to finish their medications, bacteria get the tools needed to develop some form of resistance. The mutated bacteria are then passed on to a healthy person where they make more copies of themselves. This process continues until there is a whole population of a different type of much dangerous bacteria. Other causes of bacterial resistance are use of antibiotics without prescription and for the wrong purpose. It is very important that a doctor be the one to prescribe antibiotics. Once given, all medications should be taken according to provided instructions. If we fail to observe these simple rules, certain doom has been spelled for our kind.
There are some types of antibiotics that are able to kill MRSA. Your doctor will prescribe them after diagnosis. Without treatment, MRSA can prove fatal. This is especially when dealing with cases such as impetigo eye, face or nose infection.
[post_title] => Main Causes of Impetigo in Adults: Staph, Strep, Bullous and Non Bullous
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[post_content] => Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the skin. It is most common in children but can also occur in infants and adults. Like many other bacterial infections, it is easily treatable with antibiotics for impetigo. Home treatments can also be used to cure and improve its symptoms.
A number of other skin conditions can be taken for impetigo. Such include herpes, chicken pox or eczema. Knowing the basics of impetigo presents, its causes and risk factors is important in regards to self-diagnosis. Should doubts exist, medical attention can always be sought.
Some people recover successfully from impetigo even without treatment. This however comes with a number of unnecessary risks. For example, going without treatment can lead to complications like cellulitis, meningitis and kidney inflammation in later stages of impetigo. This article is detailed on how to treat impetigo at home, mostly with natural remedies.
How to treat impetigo with tea tree oil
One of the most common home remedies for impetigo is tea tree oil. Its use to treat bacterial and fungal infections dates back to native Australia inhabitants. Oil distilled from the plant’s leaves can also be used to reduce inflammation. This makes tea tree oil a very popular home remedy for treatment of various skin conditions. [RELATED] Impetigo is caused by staphylococcus and sometimes streptococcus bacteria. Some of these bacteria are to be found on the skin where they live harmlessly. Flaws, injuries or discontinuities provide portals of entry bacteria require to enter the skin. Since the superficial skin layers are nutritious, warm and wet, bacteria rapidly build colonies and cause infection. This results in formation of small papules which turn into blisters and quickly burst to release a clear yellowish fluid. Tea tree oil works by stopping bacterial growth. In less numbers, bacteria are more likely to succumb to immune activities and less likely to build colonies. It has been suggested that tea tree oil is also effective on MRSA. These are bacteria that don’t respond to some commonly used antibiotics. Below are steps to follow when using tea tree oil to cure impetigo;- Mix equal parts of tea tree oil and carrier oil such as olive oil
- Wash affected areas and pat dry or leave to air dry
- Soak a cotton swab in the tea tree oil mixture and apply directly
- Leave for 15 minutes before rinsing off
- Repeat the treatment 3-4 times a day
- Remember to wash your hands before and after treatment to avoid spreading infection
Other natural remedies for impetigo
Several other natural remedies for impetigo can be used to either treat or improve symptoms. They include;
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar excels in making it impossible for bacteria to build colonies. It also reduces inflammation. Other benefits of apple cider vinegar include body detoxification and balancing of blood sugar.
Before using apple cider vinegar, dilute it with water to avoid skin irritation. Use a cotton swab to dab the solution on affected areas. Rinse after 5-10 minutes. Avoid using apple cider vinegar on large open sores or on impetigo toddler infection.
Echinacea
Echinacea is one of the remedies that were in popular medicinal use before discovery of antibiotics. It works by preventing growth of bacteria.
You can use Echinacea internally or externally. One option is to drink it in form of tea. This works by boosting the immune system. The second option is to soak a piece of cloth in Echinacea tea and compress it on affected areas for around ten minutes.
Grape seeds extract
Grape seeds extract is commonly used to fight bacterial infections as well as improve dry skin. To make the extract, grind ripe grape fruits together with seeds. Soak a cotton pad in the extract and apply directly to affected areas.
Garlic
Garlic not only keeps bacterial proliferation in check but also improves symptoms of impetigo. To use it, crush 3-4 garlic cloves and fry them is sesame oil. Allow the mixture to cool before applying directly. You can also use garlic by chewing 3 cloves every day.
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Turmeric
Turmeric is mostly known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It however can also be used as an antiseptic. The curcumin in turmeric has been found to be particularly effective against staph infections. For best results, mix a tablespoon of coconut oil with a teaspoon of turmeric and apply resulting paste directly.
Honey
Honey is not only the food that can go for years without spoiling but also a potent antibacterial remedy. Most of the available research data is on manuka honey. It is believed to be of most benefits in regards to controlling impetigo and related infections. Raw honey can however be used for similar benefits.
Green tea
There are reasons to believe that green tea can keep impetigo from being passed from one person to another or to other body areas. Green tea has been found to be able to control growth of most bacteria strains.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is effective in treating problems related to skin dryness but can also help in the case of impetigo. Gel from fresh aloe vera plant is best applied directly to affected areas for best results.
Zinc
Zinc is a very important mineral in development of a healthy immune system. There are reasons to believe that more zinc in diets or supplements can reduce the risk of impetigo in infants and children. Before taking supplements, always check with your doctor.
Myrrh oil
Myrrh oil works by neutralizing some of the chemicals that cause swelling during an infection. While swelling can be part of immune activities, it makes infections more aggressive and sometimes painful. Use of myrrh oil can help avoid these reactions.
Best essential oils for impetigo
Essential oils are commonly used to soothe irritated skin, moisturize dry skin and control microbial infections. Below are some that may prove effective in treating impetigo and improving its symptoms;
Coconut oil
Coconut oil contains lauric acid. This acid renders affected areas inhospitable to bacteria. Frequent application of coconut oil can therefore reduce the period it is required to completely recover from impetigo.
Eucalyptus oil
Some soaps and dental care products contain eucalyptus oil. This is because the oil contains antibacterial properties that not only fight bacteria but also enhance recovery from infections. For best results, apply eucalyptus oil directly.
Lavender oil
Lavender oil works as a natural antiseptic. It also promotes relaxation by improving blood circulation. Both these properties can prove very helpful when dealing with impetigo on scalp, face or trunk.
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When using essential oils for impetigo, add about 50ml of carrier oil such as jojoba oil or olive oil to the essential oil of choice. This helps avoid skin irritation. Afterwards, use a cotton swab to dab the mixture on affected areas. Always ensure to wash affected areas clean and pat dry before application. If the infection does not respond after 2 days, seek medical attention. Stronger mediations such as mupirocin for impetigo are available.
Impetigo natural treatment with heat therapy
Heat therapy is a considerable impetigo natural treatment. This is especially if impetigo blisters have formed pus. The treatment may help draw pus towards the surface where it can drain. Bacteria survive in warm and wet conditions. When temperature rises or falls significantly, bacteria can barely survive let alone build colonies. Heat therapy may also improve blood circulation and in that case boost immunity. Below are the steps to follow;- Heat some water to near boiling point
- Wash clean the affected areas
- Soak a piece of towel in the hot water
- Wring out to remove excess water
- Compress the cloth on affected areas for about 15 minutes
- Repeat the process 3 times a day
Natural ways to prevent impetigo
Impetigo spreads quickly from one person to another and sometimes to other body areas. This is because the infection is highly contagious. Need for treatment can be avoided by preventing spread.
Boost your immune system
There are countless bacteria to be found on our skins. Normally, the immune system keeps them from causing harm. This balance is interrupted when bacteria reach superficial layers where conditions are very favorable for bacterial growth. A strong immune system is better suited to identify and fight off invading pathogens that cause impetigo. Eating healthy diets rich in fruits and getting medications for diseases such as diabetes or HIV may help.
Practice good hygiene
Impetigo is spread through skin to skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces. Regular hand washing with medicated soap may help flush out picked bacteria. Parents are advised to encourage their kids to practice good hygiene especially when a household member has been diagnosed with impetigo. Impetigo on back and trunk can be prevented by daily washing of bed linen and clothes.
Avoid scratching and touching
Scratching and touching affected areas is a classic way to collect bacteria and deposit them elsewhere in the body or on other people. Sometimes, impetigo blisters become itchy. This tempts patients to do some scratching to ease the itch. A better method to control itchiness is use of essential oils such as coconut oil.
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Cover affected areas
A good way to keep bacteria from leaving the site of infection is to keep it covered. To avoid discomfort, use a lightly fixed bandage or gauze. Impetigo blisters quickly burst and release the contained fluid. The fluid is also a rich source of bacteria. Waterproof dressing may be a better choice in this case.
Keeps wounds clean and dry
A common method to keep wounds from becoming infected is keeping them dry and clean. Dry wounds form a scab which keeps bacteria from entering. Cleaning flushes out most of harmful bacteria that may end up causing infection.
Precautions
Most natural treatments for impetigo are meant to improve signs and facilitate recovery. There is no guarantee that any one or a combination of them will work. The best approach is to check with your doctor or a professional if signs of impetigo don’t improve after few days. Before using any remedy, ensure to have the correct guidelines on how it should be used. This is very important. Impetigo pregnancy association is not very clear. See your doctor before using oral medications.
[post_title] => Treating Impetigo at Home with Natural Remedies, Cream and Essential Oils
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[post_content] => Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that often occurs in children between 2 and 5 years. Adults and infants too can be affected. It is not serious but highly contagious. Although treatment is not always necessary, untreated impetigo can lead to complications such as cellulitis, meningitis and kidney inflammation. Impetigo in infants can be caused by bacteria living in healthy adults.
Incubation period is around 1-10 days depending on factors such as bacteria type, patient’s immune system and like. First signs present as tiny papules that turn into blisters and quickly rupture. It is during this stage that impetigo is most contagious. The signs improve in a period of about 4 days or less with treatment.
Treatment is usually done with antibiotics. Patients are advised to get prescription medications. A number of home treatments are available which may help promote faster recovery.
Although impetigo is most common on face, it can also occur on any body area including legs, arms, hands, armpits, buttocks, and genital area. This article investigates the presentation of impetigo on body, its causes, how it is treated and self-care measures which may help prevent the infection. More on impetigo definition are also contained.
Impetigo on buttocks causes, symptoms and treatment
There are two main types of impetigo. The type that mostly occurs in buttocks is known as bullous impetigo. It is the less common type but a bit serious than nonbullous impetigo. [RELATED] Causes Bullous impetigo often results from staph infection. Sometimes, strep infection can also be present. Once causative bacteria are inside the skin, they produce toxins that cause a gap between epidermis and dermis. Fluid collects in the gap to form large blisters which can reach 3 cm in diameter. Things that encourage impetigo on buttocks include;- diapers
- skin creams
- sunburn
- tight clothing
- weak immune system
- warm and humid weather
- Larger blisters –bullous blisters are much larger. They appear and are easily visible on patient’s skin. The blisters are mostly clear. It is unlikely that the blisters will cause pain but are delicate and do rupture easily.
- Filled with fluid – bullous impetigo blisters are filled with clear yellow pus. The pus is a rich source of bacteria.
- Redness and itchiness – Once the blisters are ruptured, affected skin becomes red and starts to itch.
- Crusting – bullous impetigo blisters contain a yellow crust in early stages. Once ruptured, a dark or brown crust forms on the blisters. This indicates final impetigo stages of healing.
Doctors often identify bullous impetigo on buttocks during physical examination. If necessary, a tissue or fluid culture is taken to confirm diagnosis. Some conditions that may mimic impetigo on buttocks include atopic eczema, herpes, pemphigus vulgaris and erythema migrans.
Treatment is done with antibiotics. Creams and ointments usually get the job done. Oral or IV medications may be considered for severe cases. Sometimes, patients will also be given anti-inflammatory medications.
Prevention measures include;
- minimizing contact with affected areas
- dressing affected areas
- avoiding tight garments
- using medications to minimize spread
Impetigo genital infection vs herpes
Both impetigo and herpes are common and highly contagious. They however are very different from each other. What is impetigo genital infection? You can have impetigo in the genital area after direct skin contact with a contaminated surface or an impetigo patient. Causative bacteria enter the skin through small cracks or discontinuities on the skin. It is not common but possible for impetigo to develop on intact skin. Having sores such as caused by herpes is an impetigo risk factor. But as long as you don’t come into contact with streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria that cause impetigo, you cannot develop the infection. What is herpes? Herpes can be oral or genital. It is caused by herpes simplex virus. Genital herpes is mostly transmitted through sex but can also be passed to another person during direct skin contact. Oral herpes is transmitted by activities such as kissing, sharing utensils and kissing. It is possible to have both herpes and impetigo at the same time. Since both infections result in blisters or sores, having either can be a risk factor but doesn’t cause the other. [RELATED] Symptoms Impetigo causes tiny blisters which quickly rupture to release a clear yellow fluid. The perhaps most distinctive feature is formation of honey-colored scabs. The blisters are rarely painful but can be itchy. Herpes causes fluid-filled blisters that soon develop into open painful sores. Depending on its type, the sores may occur around mouth or genital area. Oral herpes can easily be transmitted to genital area and vice versa. How are they treated? Impetigo is treated with antibiotics. The infection stops being contagious 48 hours after starting treatment. Home remedies such as tea tree oil and heat therapy may help improve and treat the infection. Herpes is not curable since it is viral infection. However, rarely is it fatal especially in healthy adults. Herpes symptoms can persist for up to 4 weeks without treatment. Medications reduce the recovery period to as few as 3 days. Other comparisons such as impetigo vs ringworm or impetigo vs eczema may help.Impetigo on legs with pictures
Impetigo on legs is not as common as impetigo on face. When it occurs, it is often around an injured area. Staph infections are the usually the cause. See more here how do you get impetigo.
Children often pick bacteria when playing and like activities. Since their immune systems are not fully matured, bacteria are sometimes able to build colonies after contamination. This leads to occurrence of vesicles, the first signs of infection.
Depending on severity of the infection, signs can appear on large areas of the leg or be localized to smaller areas. Touching or scratching affected areas easily spreads infection to adjacent areas. In fact, it is possible for impetigo on face to be transmitted to legs. This can be avoided by keeping affected areas covered with waterproof dressing.
Parents are advised to keep their children away from school during recovery period from impetigo. This is because the infection can easily be passed to healthy individuals. Antibacterial ointments and creams help keep the infection from being contagious.
There are a number of home remedies for impetigo that may help treat and manage the infection. They include;
- Tea tree oil – this is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial remedy. To use it, use a cotton swab to directly apply it. Tea tree oil may irritate sensitive skin and thus requires being diluted with carrier oil such as olive oil.
- Vinegar – vinegar acts as a natural antiseptic. It may also reduce pain and relieve itchiness. To use it, add a tablespoon of white vinegar to 2 cups of water. Use a cotton swab to apply directly before washing off with water after 15 minutes.
- Honey – honey is an antimicrobial remedy which may also reduce pain. To use it, apply a thin coat all over affected areas. Use manuka honey if available although raw honey will be of same results.
- Heat therapy – heat therapy is very effective when impetigo blisters have formed pus. It helps draw the pus towards the surface. Heat therapy also discourages growth of bacteria. To use it, soak a thick towel in hot water and wring to get rid of excess water. Hold the towel on affected areas for 15 minutes. Repeat the process several times a day.
- Turmeric – turmeric is mostly known as an anti-inflammatory remedy. It however can be used an antiseptic. You can mix it with water or with olive oil and apply directly.
Impetigo on arms, hands and fingers
An infection on arms, hands or fingers can be caused by impetigo. Several other conditions such as eczema, cellulitis and psoriasis can present as impetigo. It is therefore important to understand how impetigo looks like, its causes and symptoms. Online pictures may help. Impetigo on arm usually appears between elbow and wrist. This area is prone to many forms of skin injures including sunburn and cuts. During direct contact with a contaminated surface, impetigo bacteria can easily enter the skin through such flaws. Since bacterial infection is what causes impetigo, skin injuries, age and weak immune system are known as risk factors. [RELATED] Hands are another common location you will find impetigo infection. Patients often transmit impetigo bacteria to other parts of their bodies after scratching. Long nails can carry bacteria or cause infection on injured parts on hand. Impetigo on hand develops on the upper part. It is also possible to have impetigo on fingers. The same case applies, where bacteria gain access into skin through injures. Learning how to prevent impetigo can help. There is no much difference in the manner that impetigo on face or arm presents. After incubation period, small blisters will form and quickly rupture to release a yellow clear fluid. A honey-colored scab will afterwards form on the affected areas.Impetigo on back and armpit causes and treatment
We are used to conditions such as eczema and psoriasis being the cause of skin defects on back and boils on armpit. Regardless, impetigo can develop in these areas.
Impetigo is a skin infection. This means that it can affect any part of the body, including feet or even penis. The reason as to why you may not see impetigo on back very often is because the infection mostly occurs around an injured area exposed to staph or strep infection.
Sharing personal hygiene items such as towels and bed linen with an impetigo patient can spread the infection. Certain sports which allow direct skin to skin contact may also spread infection.
Impetigo armpit infection can easily be confused with a boil. Every so often, a discontinuity occurs in armpits. Such can for example be caused by inflamed hair follicle or irritation due to sweat. Such flaws allow bacteria to reach the inside of skin where they cause infection.
The main difference between a boil and impetigo armpit infection is that the former results in a painful boil which presents as a tender warm lump. The lump can last up to a week before maturing and bursting open. Impetigo blisters may increase in peripheral area but remain flattened. They also are not painful and do not last long.
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Since both impetigo and boils are bacterial infections, they can be transmitted to other body areas. This is encouraged by scratching or picking at affected areas. The pus or fluid that fills boils and impetigo blisters are rich sources of bacteria. If it comes into contact with an injured area of the skin, infection may result.
When to see a doctor
Impetigo is rarely serious. Regardless, going without impetigo medicine comes with a number of unnecessary risks. See your doctor once you notice typical signs of impetigo. Although over the counter antibiotics are available, they don’t come in strengths that can cure impetigo.
Prescription antibiotics also eradicate the issue of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. There is a growing concern that if we do not stop using over the counter antibiotics, most infections will stop responding to even the most powerful medications we have.
Consider learning more about this bacterial infection and how it can be easily controlled. You might be interested to know that the infection can also occur in pets and other animals. See more details here can dogs get impetigo?
[post_title] => Impetigo on Legs, Hands, Fingers, Armpits, Arms, Back, Buttocks and Genital Area
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[post_content] => Impetigo is commonly diagnosed in kids between 2 and 5 years. It is a bacterial infection of the skin that is not deadly but highly contagious. Patients easily pass causal bacteria to other people and to healthy body areas.
Small red papules are the common signs of impetigo. This however depends on the type contracted. The signs show up mainly around mouth and nose. First signs manifest several days after infection.
Treatment is not always necessary. The infection disappears within 1-2 weeks even without treatment. The problem is that it can lead to complications or be passed around. With treatment, the period required to recover fully is significantly reduced. Medications also prevent spread of causal bacteria.
Impetigo in infants causes, signs and treatments
Impetigo in infants is not that common. The main reason is because infants are rarely in contact with impetigo patients or contaminated surfaces. Causes When impetigo in infants occurs, it is mainly caused by staphylococcus bacteria. These are bacteria that sometimes can be carried around by healthy individuals. [RELATED] Infants have a yet to mature immune system. Large numbers of bacteria on their skin can easily build colonies and cause infection. This is worse in case there are tiny cracks or areas where the skin is not intact. Signs and symptoms Signs first show up around the original entry point. Tiny blister filled with fluid develop before quickly bursting to release yellow clear fluid. It is during this stage that impetigo is most contagious. Both the fluid and exposed parts of broken blisters are rich sources of bacteria. Impetigo is usually not painful but can cause itchiness. Soreness is mild and soon disappears as honey-colored scabs form on affected areas. Impetigo symptoms may include fever, nausea and general tiredness. These are not common and are mild when present. A less common type known as bullous impetigo causes larger blisters and is often painful. It occurs mostly on trunk and buttocks. It can for example occur in areas affected by diaper rash. Impetigo on lips and mouth can be confused with cold sores caused by herpes. See more details on impetigo vs herpes here. Treatment Antibiotic ointments and creams are most commonly used for treatment. They are to be applied directly to affected areas. When applying, care should be taken to avoid spreading infection. Severe cases and advanced stages of impetigo are treated with oral or IV medications.Impetigo in kids and children
Impetigo in kids is fairly common. This is mostly because children engage in many activities that may involve direct skin to skin contact. For example, impetigo rapidly spreads in schools especially during sports.
Causes and signs
Different forms of injuries on skin provide for portals of entry bacteria require to enter the skin. Such include cuts, wounds and conditions like eczema. If large numbers of bacteria are picked, infection can start on intact skin.
During summer, conditions are warm and humid. This makes it easier for bacteria to build colonies. Incidence rate is therefore higher.
Children are not always keen to observe proper hygiene habits such as not sharing personal items and washing their hands with soap. For this reason, infections can be passed around very easily.
Other factors that may promote impetigo infection include weakened immune system and congested places. These factors do not necessarily cause impetigo. They only promote spread of bacteria from a patient to healthy individuals.
It is not uncommon for secondary papules to develop courtesy of a primary infection. This is mostly seen in nasal impetigo. Since impetigo blisters may cause itchiness, children often end up scratching or picking at their noses. Bacteria are in the process picked from the primary infection and introduced to other healthy body areas. Impetigo on legs or arms can also be caused by a primary infection on face.
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Treatments
Conventional treatment is done with antibiotics. These are medications used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. Certain antibiotics are available over the counter. Patients are not advised to use such medications for impetigo treatment. This is because the medications may not come in strengths enough to control streptococcus and staphylococcus bacteria. Other than that, use of antibiotics without prescription may increase bacterial resistance. Always do your best to first consult a professional even in such a case as impetigo treatment for dogs.
Other than treatment, preventive and care measures help in keeping the infection from spreading. Parents are encouraged to practice such measures to ensure that their kids stay healthy and recover quickly from impetigo.
How to treat impetigo in kids with home remedies
Antibiotics are the best cure for impetigo. Regardless, treatment can be done at home with the following home remedies;- Tea tree oil – this essential oil helps reduce swelling and keeps bacteria from building colonies. Before use, the oil should be diluted with carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. Pure tea tree oil may irritate sensitive baby skin. Dilute tea tree oil is to be applied directly with a cotton swab and washed off after 15 minutes.
- Heat therapy – heat therapy is more effective in treating boils but can be helpful in the case of impetigo. Bacteria cannot thrive in extreme heat such as caused by heat therapy. The treatment requires a piece of cloth or towel soaked in hot water. Ensure to wring out excess water before pressing the cloth on affected areas for 15 minutes several times a day.
- Essential oils – essential oils excel in soothing irritated skin but can also keep bacteria from growing. Good examples include coconut oil, peppermint oil and jojoba oil. When using essential oils in babies and children, always dilute with carrier oil to avoid irritation.
- Honey –honey is mild and effective in reducing pain as well as preventing bacterial infections. Manuka honey is thought to be most beneficial but raw honey can be used for the same purpose. To use honey, apply a thin layer all over affected areas and leave to dry.
Impetigo prevention in children
Impetigo prevention in children can be done in the following ways;
Keep children away from school
Is impetigo contagious? The infection is most contagious when blisters have broken open. Once diagnosed with the infection, children should be kept from attending school.
Discourage scratching
It is sometimes very hard to not scratch an itchy part of the body. Scratching provides relief but comes with risk of spread and scarring. One way to discourage it is by dressing affected areas. You can also try keeping your kid’s nails short.
Reduce direct skin contact
Once impetigo blisters have burst open, they are particularly contagious. Direct skin contact can be minimized with waterproof dressing. The dressing should be loose enough to avoid sweating and unnecessary discomfort.
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Wash hands regularly
Caretakers can easily pass bacteria to children and infants. An effective way to avoid this is by regularly washing hands with medicated soap and water especially when a household member has been diagnosed with impetigo or other infection.
Clean and dispose linen
As long as infection lasts, always remember to clean or dispose bed linen, clothes towels and other personal items. This reduces the number of bacteria that may be passed from the patient to healthy individuals.
Disinfect toys and playthings
Toys and other playthings can easily transmit bacteria. Before they change hands from an impetigo patient, use disinfecting solution to get rid of bacteria that may have accumulated on their surfaces.
Minimize contact
Babies are very prone to infections. If a household member has been diagnosed with impetigo, ensure to keep them from direct contact with the affected individual.
Pregnant women diagnosed with impetigo herpetiformis should seek medical treatment from their doctors.
Impetigo complications in children and infants
Most impetigo baby and child infections heal completely without complications. This is especially with medical treatment. Incubation period is about 3 days for strep infections and 5 days for staph infections. Sometimes, the following impetigo complications occur;
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection which is more serious than impetigo and potentially dangerous. It occurs much deeper in the skin where bacteria can easily reach blood and lymphatic vessels. First signs include redness, warmth, swelling and tenderness.
Scarring
Scarring is not a serious complication but an unnecessary one. It is more common with ecthyma, a more serious type of impetigo that develops deeper in the skin. Scarring can also be caused by repeated scratching.
Spread of infection
It is not uncommon for impetigo toddler and child infections to spread to healthy body areas. This is very common with nasal impetigo. In fact, nasal infection can cause recurrent impetigo which requires occasional use of impetigo treatment cream.
Rheumatic fever
Rheumatic fever is usually a complication of strep throat but can result from impetigo. This is especially when head and neck areas are involved. It is a serious complication that causes autoimmune inflammation.
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Kidney damage
It is not common for impetigo to cause kidney damage. This is where bacterial toxins cause damage to blood vessels that supply blood to kidneys. The condition causes blood in urine and widespread swelling.
When to see a doctor
Age is considered an impetigo risk factor. Children between ages of 2 and 5 years are mostly affected. This doesn’t mean that adults can’t develop impetigo.
There are many patients who recover at home without medical treatment. But this always comes with certain risks which are not necessary to take.
See your doctor once you notice signs of impetigo, whether in an adult, child or infant. The doctor may carry out some tests to rule out other conditions such as cellulitis and eczema. Afterwards, they will prescribe antibiotics such as bacitracin for impetigo.
[post_title] => Impetigo Prevention and Complications in Infants, Toddlers, Babies and Kids
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[post_content] => Impetigo is skin infection caused by bacteria. It is not serious but highly contagious. Patients can easily transmit the infection to others or to elsewhere in the body. Recovery period is up to 2 weeks but can be shortened with treatment.
Small red papules are the common signs of impetigo. It is after the papules have burst open that the disease is most contagious. Dressing the sores and using medications can both prevent spread.
Most impetigo cases occur on face, especially around mouth and nose. It is also possible to have impetigo on scalp, lips, neck, chin, ear, eye and basically any part of the body. The less common type of impetigo, bullous impetigo, causes large blisters up to 3 cm in diameter and occurs in trunk and buttocks.
Impetigo on face and mouth
The most common areas you may find impetigo are around mouth and nose. Signs may extend to nostrils or even nasal passages. In fact, presence of bacteria inside nose is a common cause of recurring impetigo. Impetigo on face is usually nonbullous. This means that it does not lead to formation of large blisters. It begins with small red papules that quickly burst releasing clear or yellowish fluid. The fluid then forms yellowish-brown or honey-colored scabs. [RELATED] Signs of impetigo mouth infection rarely include the inside of mouth. They mostly appear on the area between nose and upper lip. They can also occur around lip edges. Sharing utensils can easily spread bacteria from impetigo mouth infection. Children can also transmit the infection to their mothers when breastfeeding, especially if there are forms of injuries on breasts.Impetigo in nose causes, signs and treatments
Impetigo in nose is very common in kids between ages of 2 and 5 years. It involves the areas below nostrils and nasal passages.
Bacteria usually start by building colonies in nasal passages where conditions favor their growth. From there, the bacteria launch frequent attacks. This can lead to recurring impetigo.
First signs present inside and under nose as tiny blisters filled with a clear or yellowish fluid. The blisters quickly burst to form open sores which soon crust over.
In most cases, small injuries inside or about the nasal region provide bacteria with entry portals. Once inside the skin, the bacteria multiply and release toxins which then cause infection. Forms of injuries can result from allergies, common cold and like. It is not impossible to develop impetigo on intact skin. This is however mostly seen in bullous impetigo which is not common in nose.
Nasal impetigo is treated with antibiotics. Mupirocin cream is a popular choice. The cream is meant to reduce bacterial population inside nose. This promotes recovery and discourages spread. Mupirocin cream usually promotes full recovery in a period of about 5 days.
Recurrence may be seen in nasal impetigo. In that case, treatment needs to be done on monthly basis. This can however cause a number of undesired side effects. Home treatments and care measures can help avoid the need for monthly nasal impetigo treatment. Considerable examples of natural treatments that may help include essential oils for impetigo such as jojoba oil and peppermint oil.
It is important that patients avoid congested places to prevent spread. Impetigo incubation period is 2-3 days for strep infections and 4-10 days for staph infections. Once blisters have clustered over, the infection becomes largely noncontiguous. The same happens 48 hours after starting treatment with antibiotics.
Impetigo on lips with pictures
On pictures, impetigo on lips can be confused with cold sores. Let’s go through both infections, their causes, symptoms and treatments. Impetigo How do you get impetigo? Impetigo is caused by bacteria. It affects outer skin layer and therefore causes easily visible signs. The infection is characterized by vesicles which quickly burst and crust over to form honey-colored scabs. The whole process takes 1-2 weeks. Impetigo blisters are itchy but not painful. [RELATED] Cold sores Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1. The virus is passed from one person to another during direct skin to skin contact. It can also be picked from contaminated surfaces such as utensils. Tiny cracks in the oral cavity allow the virus to enter the body. Unlike impetigo bacteria, HSV cannot be completely gotten rid off from the body. It however stays dormant for most of its life but launches attacks when triggered. Cold sores cause easily noticeable blisters in the area around mouth and on lips. These are also known as fever blisters and can be painful. They develop around the original point of entry. The blisters break open soon after formation before oozing. A scab then develops over the blisters. Incubation period is 2-3 weeks after first infection. Before blisters appear, patients experience a tingling effect or mild itchiness. This can result from trauma, stress, illnesses or other potential cold sores triggers. There is no cure for cold sores. Treatment is mostly done with creams to fasten recovery. Without treatment, cold sores can take up to 4 weeks to completely heal. This period can be significantly reduced to as few as 4 days. Having either cold sores or impetigo can act as a risk factor. This also applies in case of impetigo genital infection and genital herpes.Impetigo eye infection causes and signs
Impetigo eye infection is not very common. When it occurs, medical attention is necessary for it can lead to cellulitis or erysipelas.
Staph infections are the common causes of eye impetigo. Bacteria enter the skin through flaws on eyelid skin. It is possible but unlikely that bacteria will colonize an intact skin region. This may be encouraged by warmth and humidity.
Eye impetigo blisters can form on eyelid or around eye. On eyelids, both the inside and outside surfaces can be affected.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a more serious bacterial infection. It is characterized by swelling and redness. Preorbital cellulitis is not painful and doesn’t cause problems with vision. Orbital cellulitis is both painful and causes vision problems. In eyes, cellulitis is more dangerous and should be treated with antibiotics.
Erysipelas
Erysipelas is more common in old people and babies. It too is a bacterial infection mostly caused by Group A beta haemolytic streptococci. Its main defining characteristic is formation of a sharp raised border on affected skin.
Treating impetigo of the eyes can be quite challenging. It may require use of eye drops depending on the location of the infection. The important thing is to seek treatment before complications arise.
Impetigo ear infection causes and signs
Ear infections are common. One of the infections that can occur in ear is impetigo. Signs may manifest externally or inside ear. Since impetigo is an infection of the skin, impetigo ear infection mostly appears on the visible soft lining of the ear where wax collects. Infection is caused by bacteria introduced into the skin through tiny cracks. Impetigo can be identified from vesicles it causes. Other than being red and fluid-filled, the blisters gradually gain peripheral size before bursting and forming honey-colored scabs. Itchiness is usually present but not pain. [RELATED] If an ear infection is being caused by impetigo, it will improve and heal off within a week or two. Antibiotic creams such as mupirocin for impetigo can reduce this duration to between three and six days. The proximity of internal ear structures to the brain makes ear infections potentially very dangerous. Bacterial infections in the brain can easily cause inflammation of the membranes that surround the spinal cord and brain. When such inflammation occurs, meningitis develops and can easily cause death.Impetigo on scalp causes and treatment
Impetigo on scalp can be confused with a number of other scalp conditions. This is because it results in irritating sores that may be painful and recurrent.
Causes
Scalp impetigo is mostly due to staph infection but can also result from strep infection. Causal bacteria are transmitted from infected people during skin to skin contact. Sharing items such as combs, hats and like can also transmit bacteria. Transmission is highest in congested places such as schools.
Once on scalp, bacteria enter the skin through tiny cracks or other forms of scalp injuries. It is also possible for bacteria to build colonies on intact scalp skin.
The main feature that may help identify impetigo is formation of honey-colored blisters. At first, the blisters form open sores once they break open but soon crust over. These blisters may not be painful but are often itchy. Itchiness encourages scratching which in turn promotes spread and possible scarring.
Most cases are reported during summer. This is when the weather is both warm and humid. Bacteria multiply quickly in such conditions.
Poor hygiene habits increase the risk of developing impetigo in kids. This is especially after contact with an affected person.
Treatment
Impetigo doesn’t always require treatment. However, complications of impetigo can arise when no treatment is available. This is not to mention that chances of spread are heightened without treatment.
Topical antibiotics are prescribed in most cases. If the infection is extensive, oral or IV medications may be given. It is important that a doctor be the one to prescribe the appropriate medication to use. This is partly because diagnosis is required to rule out other conditions such as ringworm and eczema. See impetigo vs ringworm pictures for illustrations.
Antibiotics are also used as impetigo treatment for dogs.
Impetigo on chin and neck
The chin and neck regions are prone to a number of skin conditions such as impetigo. This bacterial infection is often preceded by a form of skin injury. Causes Either streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria may be responsible for impetigo on chin and neck. When it is a staph infection, signs take 4-10 days to show up after infection. Strep infections manifest after 3-6 days. Symptoms Impetigo on neck or chin begins with red papules. The papules quickly burst, ooze and form yellow or brown scabs. The normal healing process follows after that. Once completely healed, scarring is rarely present. [RELATED] Treatment Treatment is primarily done with antibiotic ointments. More serious cases are treated with oral or IV impetigo medicine. With treatment, impetigo of the neck and chin areas heals off within 4-6 days. Home treatments may also help much when it comes to treating impetigo and preventing spread. Remedies such as tea tree oil and white vinegar improve impetigo symptoms as well as stop bacterial growth. Prevention measures revolve around activities to keep bacteria from being transmitted. For example, affected areas can be dressed with loose waterproof bandages. See your doctor if impetigo fails to improve with home treatments. In fact, always seek medical attention if you are to notice signs of impetigo. Early treatment not only speeds up recovery but may also prevent complications such as cellulitis and impetigo herpetiformis. [post_title] => Impetigo on Face, Scalp, Nose, Mouth, Lips, Eyes, Ears, Chin and Neck [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => impetigo-on-face-scalp-nose-mouth-lips-eyes-ears-chin-and-neck [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-04-17 18:27:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-04-17 18:27:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://skinanswer.com/?p=4933 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [11] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5300 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2018-04-13 16:44:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-04-13 16:44:22 [post_content] => Impetigo is a bacterial infection that occurs on the skin. It is most common in children aged between 2 and 5 years. The infection usually appears on face but can also occur in arms, legs and basically any part of the skin. Although infection mostly starts around an injured area, bacterial colonies can build on a healthy body area. It is also possible to have impetigo on fingers. Most cases present with small red papules that soon develop into blisters and form yellow or brown crusts. A less common type of impetigo causes large blisters which may be painful and itchy on buttocks, trunk, armpit of groin. Normally, impetigo is not a serious infection. It can clear even without treatment in about six days. Complications such as blood poisoning and cellulitis can make the infection serious. Treatment is mainly done with antibiotics. The severity of infection determines the type of medications to be given although ointments are most commonly used. Home treatment with remedies and preventive measures are also available.How do you get impetigo?
So how do you get impetigo? People get impetigo when staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria build colonies in the epidermis which is the outermost skin layer. In most cases, causal bacteria are picked from an infected person or from contaminated surfaces. Skin discontinuities and injuries often provide portals of entry although infection can begin in healthy skin. [RELATED] A number of factors make increase the risk of getting impetigo. They however do not necessarily cause the infection. These factors include;- Age – incidence rate is highest in children aged 2-5 years.
- Certain environmental conditions – bacteria survive best in wet and warm conditions. It is for this reason that most impetigo cases are reported in summer and winter.
- Weakened immunity – people with diseases such as diabetes and HIV often have a weakened immune system. This means that pathogens have an easier time building colonies in the body.
- Skin injuries – injuries on skin such as cuts, sores or conditions like eczema make it easier for bacteria to gain access into the skin.
- Congested places – impetigo for example spreads very fast in schools. Sports that allow direct skin to skin contact also spread impetigo.
Is impetigo contagious?
Is impetigo contagious? Impetigo is highly contagious. It is for this reason that affected kids are advised to not attend school until after later stages.
People with impetigo easily pass bacteria to other people during direct contact. If a skin injury is present, chances of developing infection increase. Contaminated surfaces such as toys, clothing and personal hygiene items can also carry bacteria from one person to another.
Other than passing impetigo to other people, patients can also spread the infection to other body areas. This is especially after scratching or touching affected areas. About 20% of all healthy people are carriers of staphylococcus bacteria in the area between genitals and anus. These bacteria can be passed to other body areas where they may cause infection. Bacteria living in nasal passages may cause recurring cases of impetigo.
Impetigo is most contagious once papules have burst open to form open sores. Both the surface and yellow clear fluid that oozes from burst sores are rich sources of bacteria. Once the sores have crusted over or formed scabs, transmission rate drops significantly.
Patients rarely transmit infection 48 hours after starting treatment with antibiotics. This is partly why seeking medical attention is encouraged even though impetigo is not a serious disease.
How to identify impetigo rash and blisters
There are two main types of impetigo, bullous and nonbullous.- Bullous – this is the less common type. It can develop even on intact skin areas. Once bacteria are inside the skin, they release toxins which cause a separation between epidermis and dermis. This results in larger blisters which may be painful. Staphylococcus bacteria are responsible for this type of impetigo.
- Nonbulluos – this is the more common type. It develops in areas around an injury or discontinuity where bacteria have gained access into the skin.
Impetigo rash incubation period
Impetigo rash takes at most 2 weeks to clear. This period can be lessened with medications. How long is impetigo contagious? In the first 2-3 days after blisters have formed, impetigo is most contagious. The crusts that form over ruptured blisters render impetigo noncontiguous.
Bullous impetigo may have a longer incubation period. How long does impetigo last? Without treatment, the whole process from infection to full recovery can take up to 14 days. Most of the serious symptoms will have improved by the second week.
People taking medications stop being potential transmitters 2 days after embarking on treatment. Severe infections requiring treatment with IV medications may remain contagious for a little longer. Covering impetigo blisters with loose bandages may keep infection from being transmitted.
Incubation period for strep infection is 1-3 days while that of staph infections is 4-10 days. Having a weak immune system or multiple infections may reduce the incubation period.
How is impetigo diagnosed?
Doctors usually recognize impetigo from signs and symptoms after physical examination. The patient’s medical history may aid in diagnosis confirmation. If doubts exist, fluid culture can be taken. This helps identify the type of pathogen causing infection. Presence of bacteria can be checked in swabs or crusts.Impetigo treatment
Impetigo treatment is mostly done with antibiotic ointments or creams such as bacitracin for impetigo. Impetigo treatment cream is to be applied directly until the infection is healed. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for more serious impetigo cases. Rarely will IV antibiotics be necessary.Impetigo treatment at home
At home, impetigo natural treatment can be done with; Heat therapy Heat therapy is one of the most popular home treatments for a wide range of infections and conditions. It involves pressing a thick piece of cloth soaked in hot water on affected areas. This treatment can be done several times a day until infection is completely healed. It discourages bacterial growth, draws pus towards the surface and promotes blood circulation. [RELATED] Tea tree oil Tea tree oil has the ability to reduce inflammations and prevent microbial infections. Before use, it is important that carrier oil be used to dilute it. This is to avoid skin irritation. The oil can also be diluted with water. Daily direct application using a cotton swab is recommended. Vinegar Vinegar acts as a natural antiseptic. It may also relieve symptoms such as itchiness and pain. To use it, add a teaspoon of white vinegar to two cups of water. Use a cotton ball to apply directly. You can also use apple cider vinegar after diluting it with water. Honey Honey is a very powerful home remedy for treating wounds and burns. It relieves pain and keeps bacteria from multiplying. In fact, honey as a treatment for wounds has been used since ancient times. Manuka honey is thought to be most beneficial but raw honey can be used for the same effects. Coconut oil Coconut oil is mostly known for its moisturizing benefits. It however can be used to stop bacterial growth. Coconut oil is mild and can be used even on sensitive skin and body areas. Direct application is recommended. Garlic Garlic cloves crushed and fried in sesame oil may prove effective in treating impetigo. It can also be added to diets.How to care for and prevent impetigo
Care measures
Keep wounds clean and dry
Always make sure to wash affected areas with Luke warm water and medicated soap. This reduces the number of bacteria that may cause further infection. Dryness makes it impossible for bacteria to multiply.
Cover with loose bandage
Loose and waterproof dressing helps keep bacteria from spreading. It also prevents children from scratching affected areas. Always remember to change the dressing from time to time.
Observe personal hygiene
Personal hygiene is very important especially when a close family member has been diagnosed with impetigo. Sharing clothes and items like towels can easily spread the disease. In kids, parents should ensure to wash and change the kid’s linen.
See a doctor
Complications of impetigo are not common. The disease often heals even without treatment. The problem is that lack of treatment increases chances of spread and possible complications. It is not worth it, bearing in mind that medications are widely available.
Prevention
Promote hygiene
If a family member has been diagnosed with impetigo, encourage other household members to regularly wash their hands with medicated soap if available. This helps flush out bacteria that may have been picked from contaminated surfaces.
[RELATED]
Keep your child at home
Impetigo is highly contagious especially after incubation period. Affected children should be kept from attending school or engaging in sports that allow skin to skin contact. Sharing of toys and personal items should also be discouraged.
Protect affected areas
Touching and scratching affected areas is a classic way to spread infection. This can be discouraged by dressing with bandages and keeping fingernails short.
Possible complications of impetigo
Severe or untreated impetigo can lead to the following complications;- Cellulitis – this is a more serious and potentially dangerous bacterial infection. It affects deeper skin layers and thus not contagious. Signs include swelling, pain and redness. Cellulitis develops around injured areas.
- Toxic shock syndrome – rarely will this condition be caused by impetigo. It is characterized by fever, low blood pressure and desquamating rash.
- Scarlet fever – scarlet fever is mostly preceded by strep throat but can as well be a complication of impetigo. It causes red rash, high fever and sore throat.
- Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis – impetigo rarely leads to post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. This is an infection of blood vessels that supply blood in kidneys. It occurs three to six weeks after infection. Signs include widespread swelling and blood in urine.
Impetigo definition and facts
So what is impetigo? Simply enough, it is a bacterial infection of the skin. Most cases are reported in children in the areas around the nose and mouth. Facts- One can easily pass impetigo to others especially in crowded places. One can also increase intensity of the infection by scratching or touching affected areas.
- Children are the most common culprits. In fact, impetigo accounts for most cases of skin infections in children in most places.
- Incidence rate is higher in developed and industrialized countries compared to developing countries. This is largely because of the fact that the infection is very contagious.
- Impetigo can be bullous or nonbullous. Either type is encouraged by warm and humid environmental conditions.
- Tiny blisters that burst to form crusts with the color of honey are the common first indications of impetigo. Depending on severity and type, other symptoms such as itchiness may occur.
Types, signs and symptoms of impetigo
Types As hinted earlier, impetigo can be bullous or nonbullous.- Bullous – this type is caused by staphylococcus bacteria. These bacteria produce toxic substances that separate upper skin layers. Yellow clear fluid collects in the areas where separation has occurred resulting in formation of a delicate blister. The blister usually bursts, darkens and crusts over as it heals. It may be responsible for impetigo on buttocks.
- Nonbullous – nonbullous impetigo is caused by both strep and staphylococcus bacteria. It is more common than bullous impetigo. It presents with tiny pimples that soon turn into blisters on which brown scabs form.
Most impetigo infections involve small red papules or sores. The sores soon rupture, release a clear or yellow fluid and form a brown or yellow crust. Crusting over indicates later impetigo stages of healing. Patients may experience symptoms such as itchiness and soreness. If present, they usually are very mild.
In the case of bullous impetigo, large blisters will form. This type is not common especially on face. When it occurs, the trunk and buttocks are commonly affected.
Severe impetigo can lead to ecthyma. Here, not only will signs of impetigo include itchiness but also painful blisters which soon form large areas of ulceration.
Impetigo causes
Staphylococcus bacteria are the main causes of impetigo. But how do you get impetigo? The bacteria can be picked from other infections or surfaces that contain them. Although infection can start in a healthy body area, injured areas are more likely to get infected. Insect bites can also introduce bacteria. [RELATED] People with weakened immune systems are more likely to suffer from severe impetigo or develop the disease without prior skin damage. For example, experts are not quite sure why bacterial colonies sometimes form on healthy skin. It may have something to do with lacking strong immunity. In children, immune weakness can be avoided by breastfeeding and other measures that your doctor may suggest. There are some factors that predispose an individual to impetigo. These are necessarily not impetigo causes. They include;- Age – very many cases of impetigo occur in children between two and five years of age.
- Poor hygiene – many healthy people are carriers of staphylococcus bacteria especially in the area between anus and genitals. These bacteria can spread to other body areas through normal activities such as scratching. Washing with medicated soap, not sharing clothes and wearing clean clothes are among preventive measures that may help.
- Skin damage – there are many bacteria to be found on our skins. Rarely will these bacterial cause infections unless they enter the skin. Skin discontinuities and flaws provide for the needed portal of entry.
- Direct contact – although one can pick bacteria from contaminated surfaces, chances of becoming infected are higher after direct skin to skin contact. This is very common in crowded places such as schools and during some sports.
- Seasons – bacteria prefer warm and wet conditions. During summer, conditions are very favorable for bacterial proliferation and infections.
How is impetigo diagnosed?
Most impetigo cases will be recognized by a doctor during physical examination. The patient’s medical history may be required to confirm diagnosis. If infection does not respond to treatments or appears more severe than impetigo, a liquid culture may be taken. This is usually not necessary. The problem is that some bacteria strains have been showing resistance to commonly used antibiotics.How is impetigo treated?
Impetigo responds well to treatment with antibiotic ointments. Topical mupirocin is for example commonly used to cure this infection. Amoxicillin for impetigo is another good example. Antibiotics work very fast when taken for the right purpose. For example, impetigo barely lasts a week with medications. This is even when topical agents are in use.
Patients are advised against going for impetigo treatment over the counter. One main problem is that such medications are not strong enough to be used on staph and strep infections. Another issue is that using antibiotics without prescription can make infections worse in the future. This is being observed in worldwide today, where bacteria are now becoming more resistant to antibiotics. Applying topical agents without instructions from a doctor may also work by spreading infection.
Severe impetigo infections can be treated with oral antibiotics. Rarely are IV antibiotics necessary but may be considered in case of complicated impetigo toddler infection. Your doctor will determine which form of medications to prescribe after diagnosis. Recurring impetigo can be caused by bacterial living in nasal regions. Such can be controlled with antiseptic nasal creams, especially for recurrent impetigo in nose.
It is important that everyone in the household gets to regularly wash with medicated soap and water. This will help flush out bacteria that may have been picked from the patient or contaminated surfaces.
Home treatments and how to prevent impetigo
Home treatments The main home treatment that may help with impetigo is heat therapy. Bacteria prefer warm environments but cannot survive in excess heat. Heat therapy also encourages blood circulation, which in turn aids in delivering immune cells to the site of infection. [RELATED] Heat therapy requires simple tools that can easily be accessed. First, you will need to warm some water to near boiling point. Soak a thick piece of cloth and wring out to get rid of excess water. After that, press the cloth on affected area for several minutes. You can always re-heat the cloth if necessary. Be careful however not to cause unnecessary discomfort or pain. Treatment with heat therapy 3 times a day may quicken recovery process and keep infection from spreading. Impetigo can be treated with the following home remedies;- White vinegar – vinegar mainly works by stopping bacteria from spreading. It works as a natural antiseptic. Vinegar should be mixed with water before use. For best result, add a tablespoon to 2 cups of water.
- Tea tree oil – tea tree oil is one of the most popular home remedies used for different skin conditions. It has powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The essential can therefore be used to treat impetigo and relieve its symptoms. Like other essential oils, it is important that carrier oil such as olive oil be used to prevent skin irritation. Water can also be used to dilute tea tree oil. Patients should not drink tea tree oil for it is potentially dangerous.
- Garlic – garlic works by fighting infection and relieving symptoms such as pain. For best results, crushed garlic cloves should be fried in sesame oil. Resulting mixture is them to be applied directly. Garlic can as well be consumed in diets.
- Turmeric – turmeric is yet another powerful antibacterial home remedy. It particularly excels in controlling staphylococcus bacteria. For best results, mix a teaspoon of turmeric with a tablespoon of coconut oil and apply the resulting paste directly. Coconut oil can also be used on its own. It helps fight pathogens as well as relieve pain.
- Honey – honey has from ancient times being known to enhance recovery from infections and cure burns. More research has been done on manuka honey for it is believed to be most beneficial. If not accessible, you can use raw honey for the same effects. Just apply a thin coat on affected areas several times a day.
- Keep wounds clean and dry – cleaning wounds flushes out bacteria that may end up causing infection. Medicated soap is recommended although similar results may be achieved with ordinary soap and water. Afterwards, ensure that wounds are kept dry. This keeps bacteria from forming colonies since the pathogens can only survive in wet conditions.
- Stay away from congested places – if you have impetigo, it is advisable that you keep off congested places. This prevents spread to other people. Parents should keep their children from attending school.
- Clean contaminated surfaces – if your child has impetigo, remember to clean the surfaces they have come into contact with. This includes clothing, towels and toys.
- Cover with loose bandages – loose bandages may help keep impetigo bacteria from being passed from one person to another or to other body areas.
Complications of impetigo
Most impetigo patients recover without complications. If symptoms are to worsen or fail to improve with treatment, check with your GP. Below are the possible complications of impetigo;
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is another bacterial infection of the skin. Unlike impetigo, cellulitis develops much deeper in the skin. This makes it potentially dangerous since bacteria can easily reach blood and lymphatic vessels. The infection is characterized by red rash, swelling, pain and fever.
Scarlet fever
Scarlet fever is not common. It is a bacterial infection that results in a pink rash. Patients also experience symptoms such as nausea and pain.
[RELATED]
Guttate psoriasis
This is a form of psoriasis that occurs after impetigo. It is characterized by formation of small, scaly and red patches, mostly on scalp, legs, arms or chest. This condition is not contagious and common after throat infection.
Septicemia
This is a serious complication caused by presence of toxins released into blood by bacteria. The condition can send patients to septic shock and death if severe. Early signs include diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty breathing and low blood pressure. It should be treated as a medical emergency.
Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis
This is an infection that affects blood vessels in kidneys. It is not common but a potential impetigo complication. Some of its signs include blood in urine and widespread swelling.
Scarring
Blisters that result from impetigo usually heal without scarring. Scratching may lead to larger sores and therefore scarring.
[post_title] => What is Impetigo: Definition, Symptoms, Causes, Signs and How it Looks Like
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[post_content] => Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin. It is more common in children but can also occur in adults. The infection is highly contagious but not considered serious.
Bullous and non bullous impetigo are the two major types of impetigo. Bullous is the less common type that mostly appears on buttocks, trunk and thighs. Nonbullous is more common and mostly occurs on face, arms and legs. Classic signs are blisters that quickly rupture to form honey-colored scabs.
Without treatment, impetigo can persist for up to 2 weeks. Antibiotics stop bacterial growth and therefore significantly reduce recovery period. Although not fatal, untreated impetigo can result in serious complications that can be avoided with treatment.
A number of conditions may present as impetigo. These include herpes sores, ringworm, erysipelas and MRSA infection. This article compares these conditions in detail.
Impetigo vs cold sores
Below is an impetigo vs cold sores comparison based on causes, symptoms, treatments and who is at risk; Causes Impetigo is caused by staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria. These bacteria mostly enter the skin through skin injuries. It is possible but rare to get impetigo on intact skin. People pick causative bacteria from infected persons or contaminated surfaces. [RELATED] Cold sores are caused by HSV-1 or herpes simplex virus. The virus is admitted into the skin by breaks or discontinuities. Transmission is mainly during direct contact. Symptoms Impetigo symptoms present as vesicles or pustules that quickly develop into blisters. The blisters then rupture to release a clear yellowish fluid. Soon afterwards, ‘golden’ crusts form over. Signs are mainly seen around mouth and nose. Cold sores present as open sores that may ooze clear fluid. They are usually painful especially when broken. The sores follow the normal healing process where scabs form on open wounds before complete recovery.
Treatment
Impetigo is primarily treated with antibiotics. Normally, symptoms improve significantly by the third day after starting treatment.
Herpes is a viral infection and therefore not curable. However, creams can be used to ease its symptoms as well as encourage recovery. If left alone, cold sores can persist for up to 4 weeks. Treatment significantly reduces this period to a few days.
Who is at risk?
Impetigo usually affects children between 2 and 6 years of age. Older people with compromised immunity and infants are also susceptible. Strong immunity in healthy adults keeps the infection from frequently occurring. In rare cases, impetigo herpetiformis occurs in pregnant women.
Anyone can get herpes. Once inside the body, herpes virus cannot be removed. However, it remains dormant for most part of its life but launches invasions when triggered. Having a weak immune system makes outbreaks more frequent.
Impetigo vs herpes sores
Impetigo vs herpes comparison is much similar to that of cold sores. Main difference is in the fact that herpes can be oral or genital. Oral herpes is what causes cold sores. It is caused by HSV-1. Genital herpes is caused by HSV-2.
Genital herpes sores are almost similar in appearance to cold sores. They present as blisters which may be painful and often break open or ooze clear fluid.
Having either impetigo or herpes can predispose a patient to the other condition. This is because the pathogens responsible for these infections usually take advantage of skin breaks for entry. There however is no link between the two conditions. In other words, having impetigo will not cause herpes as long as herpes virus is not present and vice versa.
In the genital area, bullous impetigo is the more common type. Bullous impetigo causes larger blisters which form dark scabs after rupturing. The blisters may be mildly painful or slightly inflamed.
Both impetigo and herpes may cause systematic symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes. This is more likely with herpes however.
Impetigo vs ringworm with pictures
Impetigo is said to be the most common skin infection in kids. Another almost equally common skin infection is ringworm. Below is an impetigo vs ringworm comparison based on causes, symptoms, treatments, prevention and complications; [RELATED] Causes Impetigo has been identified as a bacterial infection. Not all staph and strep infections cause impetigo however. Ringworm is not caused by a worm as the name may suggest. It is a fungal infection. The name comes from the fact that ringworm rash tends to form a ring. People get ringworm during direct contact with infected persons or contaminated surface. This is why children are more susceptible. Symptoms Impetigo forms tiny blisters or red sores which quickly develop honey-colored crusts. The sores are usually not painful. See impetigo early stage pictures for illustrations. Ringworm begins with a red scaly patch. The areas covered by the patch is usually slightly inflamed or raised. Soon afterwards, an itchy red ring forms all around the scaly patch. Treatment Impetigo is treated with topical or oral antibiotics. A valid prescription is necessary to obtain the medications. Ringworm can be treated at home with over the counter medications. If unresponsive, stronger prescription antifungal medications can be used. Prevention Impetigo can be largely prevented by avoiding direct contact with patients or contaminated surfaces. Further preventive measures include proper hygiene, keeping wounds covered and using medications. Natural remedies for impetigo such as tea tree oil may help keep bacterial growth in control. Ringworm can also be prevented by avoiding direct contact with contaminated surfaces or a site of infection. Keeping the skin dry and clean as well as regularly washing bed linen may all help. Complications Impetigo heals without complications in most cases. Possible complications include more serious infections such as cellulitis, blood poisoning, and scarring and kidney infection. Impetigo in nose sometimes causes recurring infection without symptoms of infection in nose. Ringworm doesn’t lead to serious complications. Possible ones include atopic eczema, bacterial infections and spread.Erysipelas vs impetigo skin infection
Erysipelas is an infection almost similar to cellulitis. Their main difference is that erysipelas occurs a bit closer to skin surface which makes it contagious. Below is an erysipelas vs impetigo comparison based on how they present and treatments.
Basics
Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection of superficial layer. It is caused by staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria. The infection occurs in humans but can also occur in animals. See more details here can dogs get impetigo?
Erysipelas is an infection of underlying tissue. It is caused by Group A hemolytic streptococcus bacteria. Unlike impetigo, erysipelas causes slight inflammation on affected areas marked by distinct borders and redness. Signs mostly appear on face, scalp and extremities. Like cellulitis, affected areas may become warm and tender.
Children and older persons are more susceptible. This is because their immune systems may not be strong enough to withstand bacterial invasions.
Treatment
Oral and topical medications are used to treat impetigo. The medications contain antibiotics which stop growth and spreading of bacteria. Topical medications are better suited when smaller areas are infected. Oral medications work effectively for widespread infection such as impetigo on back.
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Erysipelas is also treated with antibiotics such as penicillin. Treatment often runs a course of about 7 days. Patients with mild cases are given oral antibiotics to take at home. Severe cases require hospitalization and treatment with IV antibiotics.
At home, erysipelas can be improved by keeping affected areas such as leg raised above the heart. This encourages flow of fluids to avoid further swelling.
Prevention
Both impetigo and erysipelas can be prevented by;
- Keeping wounds clean and dry
- Covering broken skin areas
- Treating skin conditions like eczema
- Improving skin health
- Blood clots
- Gangrene
- Other infections
- Blood poisoning
- Abscess
Impetigo vs MRSA
MRSA is not a condition or a disease. It is a type of bacteria that is resistant to some commonly used antibiotics. MRSA is methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. Let’s look at impetigo vs MRSA in details. How are impetigo and MRSA related? Impetigo is commonly caused by S. aureus bacteria. Normally, these bacteria should respond to antibiotics regardless of their mode of action. At least that is what the several decades of antibiotics use has made us believe. In the last decade, there have been rising cases of bacterial infections that don’t heal with antibiotics. MRSA is a main cause of such bacterial infections. Although not in many cases, impetigo can be caused by MRSA. Why is MRSA more dangerous? To most of us, bacteria are these tiny organisms that cause different types of infections which we can easily treat with antibiotics. Some part of that is true but not all. Only a very small percent of bacteria are actually harmful. We in fact depend very heavily on different types of bacteria which we are in symbiotic relationship with. When penicillin was discovered in 1940s, it was a miracle drug. Many soldiers who had been injured in World War 2 were able to recover without fear of succumbing to infections. Over the years, bacteria have been developing ways to evade the effects of some forms of antibiotics. MRSA is one of the bacteria types that have found some success. [RELATED] Antibiotics such as penicillin, cephalexin and amoxicillin don’t work on MRSA. That is as scary as it seems. Currently, we don’t have very many different types of antibiotics. Bacterial resistance can therefore easily throw us back to days before antibiotics. That would mean mass deaths, with people succumbing to even very simple infections. To start with, intense surgery would almost become impossible. What does MRSA look like? Other than being resistant, MRSA infection is also hard to diagnose at first. It usually is taken for an insect or spider bite. Patients first develop a lesion which is usually tender and painful. Without treatment, the lesion becomes bigger and develops into an abscess. When MRSA causes localized infection, it is not serious to the extent of being fatal. Problems arise when infections occur deep into skin or in vital organs including bones. Impetigo treatment over the counter cannot cure MRSA infection. [post_title] => Impetigo vs Cold Sore, Herpes, Ringworm, Erysipelas, MRSA [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => impetigo-vs-cold-sore-herpes-ringworm-erysipelas-mrsa [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-04-14 19:03:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-04-14 19:03:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://skinanswer.com/?p=4953 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [comment_count] => 0 [current_comment] => -1 [found_posts] => 13 [max_num_pages] => 1 [max_num_comment_pages] => 0 [is_single] => [is_preview] => [is_page] => [is_archive] => 1 [is_date] => [is_year] => [is_month] => [is_day] => [is_time] => [is_author] => [is_category] => 1 [is_tag] => [is_tax] => [is_search] => [is_feed] => [is_comment_feed] => [is_trackback] => [is_home] => [is_404] => [is_embed] => [is_paged] => [is_admin] => [is_attachment] => [is_singular] => [is_robots] => [is_posts_page] => [is_post_type_archive] => [query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => 9a456c89927201a12353e55c7981be59 [query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => [thumbnails_cached] => [stopwords:WP_Query:private] => [compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => query_vars_hash [1] => query_vars_changed ) [compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => init_query_flags [1] => parse_tax_query ) ) Over 13 articles spanning numerous of Impetigo topics.-
Impetigo vs Cold Sore, Herpes, Ringworm, Erysipelas, MRSA
Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin. It is more common in children but can also occur in adults. The infection is highly contagious
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Impetigo Medicine : Mupirocin, Neosporin, Amoxicillin, Bacitracin and Cephalexin
Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin. It is commonly seen in children between ages of 2 and 6 years. Although highly contagious, impetigo
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Impetigo Stages: Early, Mild, Recurrent, Healing and How Long Does It Last
Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin. It is highly contagious but not serious. Most cases are reported in children between 2 and 6
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How Dogs and Puppies Get Impetigo: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment
Most of us know impetigo as a bacterial infection of skin that affects children. See what is impetigo for more details. Apparently, the infection also
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Impetigo During Pregnancy, Herpetiformis and How to Prevent
Impetigo is a bacterial condition of the skin that is most common in children and highly contagious. Generally, it is not considered a serious infection.
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Medicine for Impetigo: Antibiotics, Cream, Ointment and OTC Drugs
Impetigo is a bacterial skin condition that mostly occurs in children. They are two types, bullous and nonbullous impetigo. Their main difference is that the
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Main Causes of Impetigo in Adults: Staph, Strep, Bullous and Non Bullous
There are two major types of impetigo. These are bullous and nonbullous. Both are most common in children but also occur in adults. While staph
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Treating Impetigo at Home with Natural Remedies, Cream and Essential Oils
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the skin. It is most common in children but can also occur in infants and adults. Like
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Impetigo on Legs, Hands, Fingers, Armpits, Arms, Back, Buttocks and Genital Area
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that often occurs in children between 2 and 5 years. Adults and infants too can be affected. It is
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Impetigo Prevention and Complications in Infants, Toddlers, Babies and Kids
Impetigo is commonly diagnosed in kids between 2 and 5 years. It is a bacterial infection of the skin that is not deadly but highly
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Impetigo on Face, Scalp, Nose, Mouth, Lips, Eyes, Ears, Chin and Neck
Impetigo is skin infection caused by bacteria. It is not serious but highly contagious. Patients can easily transmit the infection to others or to elsewhere
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Spreading of Contagious Impetigo Rash, Treatment and Incubation Period
Impetigo is a bacterial infection that occurs on the skin. It is most common in children aged between 2 and 5 years. The infection usually
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What is Impetigo: Definition, Symptoms, Causes, Signs and How it Looks Like
Impetigo is a skin infection, common and very contagious but rarely serious unless complications occur. It is caused by bacteria of staphylococcus and streptococcus strains.
