Skin Infections
- Skin Rash
There are many different types of skin infections. They can be caused by injuries, allergies and bacteria, and can range from minor irritations which are easily treated and cured, to life-threatening conditions.
The most common types of skin infections
1. Erysipelas and Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a common skin infection which recurs over time. Symptoms are warmth, swelling, and tenderness of the skin in any part of the body. Cellulitis can be caused when bacteria enters the body through a crack in your skin. It can be diagnosed easily by a doctor, and usually responds well to antibiotics. Erysipelas is a form of cellulitis.
For more information on Erysipelas and Cellulitis, follow these links:
2. Impetigo
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that occurs most often in children. It starts as a patch of red and itchy skin, usually on the face, and develops into fluid or pus-filled sores, which will burst and heal with no scar. It feels very itchy, but should not be touched or scratched, as it may spread to other parts of the body or other people. It can heal on its own if left untreated, but your doctor may prefer to prescribe an antibiotic ointment as a treatment to prevent complications.
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3. Folliculitis
This is a recurring skin infection that occurs at hair follicles. People who swim in pools that are inadequately chlorinated, or who are taking antibiotics, are more prone to this form of infection. It appears as large pimples, often in clusters. To diagnose it accurately, your doctor may have to send bacterial samples to a laboratory for testing. It is treated with the application of an ointment.
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4. Furuncles and Carbuncles
Folliculitis can sometimes be followed by furunculosis, which also appears at hair follicles. Carbuncles are a complication of furunculosis. Both of these appear as fluid-filled nodules, with a discharge, and both conditions can be very painful. They will both have to be treated with antibiotics. Larger carbuncles and furuncles may have to be incised i.e. cut, and drained by your doctor.
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5. Fungal and Yeast Infections
These are among the most common skin infections. A simple example of a fungal infection is athlete's foot, which occurs on the soles on the feet and between the toes. Fungal infections also commonly occur on the scalp. They look scaly and are very itchy. They are usually treated with the regular application of ointments prescribed by a doctor.
Yeast infections occur most frequently when you have a weak immune system, or have been on antibiotics. You usually find them on the tongue, nails and genitals organs. Again, they are usually treated with the regular application of ointments prescribed by a doctor.
Both of these conditions can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but it is best to have them diagnosed by a doctor first.
For more information, follow these links: Wikipedia
For more information on these and other types of skin infection, follow the links below:
1. Cleveland Clinic: Common Skin Infections
3. Wikipedia
4. About.com
5. Medhelp
