Skin infection can be due to many things. Some happen on the skin, while others begin deep below it. The infection can occur any time you get a cut or wound due to a bite, piercing, tattoo, puncture, or sting.
In other words, you are susceptible to getting an infection any time your skin is broken due to external factors.
5 Common Types and Causes of Skin Infection
Skin infection generally refers to several conditions. It covers conditions caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even parasites that get into the skin. Some skin infections can happen on the surface, while others begin from cuts and grow from inside.
The common types and causes of skin infection include:
- Cellulitis: This is a bacterial infection that starts within the deepest layer of the skin. Symptoms include red swelling accompanied by painful sores at the surface.
- MRSA: This is another bacterial infection that can become dangerous because it is resistant to antibiotics. Painful red bumps like pimples or spider bites appear on the affected area. You might even have a fever with this infection.
- Ringworm: This is not a parasite but a fungal infection characterized by round-shaped rashes, hence the name.
- Impetigo: This presents as blisters on the skin and can be contagious. The infection is caused by staph or strep bacteria and causes a honey-colored crust to form on the affected area.
- Boils: This is probably the most common skin infection. Boils are caused by staph bacteria that create pockets of pus over hair follicles or the skin’s oil gland. The skin becomes swollen and red. If you break open the formation, pus will drain out.
Diagnosis of the skin infection starts with a doctor examining the affected area to get clues about the cause. They would then ask you about other symptoms accompanying the infection. To get a proper diagnosis, they may require you to get a lab test.
Skin Infection Symptoms
Watch out for signs and symptoms of skin infection like:
- Red and swollen skin around an injury
- Pus coming out of your skin
- Sore spots that look like blisters
- Swelling on the skin that intensifies
- Pain on the skin that intensifies
- A cut or wound that has not healed for days
- High fever
Since skin infections come in various forms, it can be difficult to tell them apart just by looking at them.
Skin Infection Treatment
Treatment for skin infections will depend on the cause. Most of the time, treatment is given through antibiotics, antibacterial medication, and fungal creams.
Preventing Skin Infection
The best way to prevent skin infection is through proper hygienic practices. Always wash your hands, especially after handling dirty items. Using hand sanitizer or alcohol can work if you do not have access to soap and water.
If you go to the gym often, use a personal towel to create a layer between you and the shared machine surface. Use sanitizers if available.
Keep your cuts and would clean, no matter how minor they may seem. That small opening is all the unwanted bacteria or virus needs to get into your body.
Immediate Treatment at Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care
Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care is the only health system in Hamilton County offering ER and urgent care services under one roof. Unlike most ER or urgent care centers, patients are only billed for the level of services they need. The ER is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The urgent care center is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. No appointments are not necessary for in-person visits; however, pre-registration is available.
Riverview Health Emergency Room Urgent Care has five convenient locations:
- Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care Carmel is located at 14585 Hazel Dell Pkwy., Carmel, IN 46033, and may be reached at 317.406.4280.
- Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care Fishers is located at 9690 E. 116th St., Fishers, IN 46037, and may be reached at 317.406.4585.
- Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care West Carmel/Zionsville is located at 10830 N. Michigan Rd., Zionsville, IN 46077, and may be reached at 317.406.4713.
- Riverview Health Westfield Hospital is located at 17600 Shamrock Blvd, Westfield, IN 46074, and may be reached at 317.214.5555.
- Riverview Health Noblesville Hospital is located at 395 Westfield Road, Noblesville, IN 46060.