Staph infection is a term that can apply to several different kinds of infections. They are all caused by the Staphylococcus bacteria. Some can be minor and respond well to treatment at home, while others can resist antibiotics. Keep reading to learn when you should visit urgent care.

staph infection

Staph Infection Causes

The bacteria that cause staph infections live on the skin and in the noses of otherwise healthy people. Staph infections happen when the staph bacteria overruns areas such as the heart, lungs, joints, blood, bloodstream, or skin.

To help prevent staph infections, practice the following:

  • Don’t share personal items.
  • Change tampons regularly and use sanitary napkins.
  • Wash sheets and clothes regularly.
  • Keep wounds clean and dry.
  • Practice good hand washing and other good hygiene habits.

Types of Staph Infections and Their Symptoms

Staph bacteria can overrun many different areas of the body and cause problems. Symptoms can change depending on where the bacteria is found.

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome happens when the toxins from staph start to burn the skin. This is most common with infants and young kids. The symptoms are fever, blisters, and a rash.

Cellulitis

When staph bacteria get below the skin’s surface, it causes cellulitis. This presents as swollen and red skin with sores that seep.

Boils

When staph gets into the hair follicles or oil glands, it can become a boil. The symptoms of these are red skin and swollen pockets of pus. 

Impetigo

Impetigo is one of the more contagious types of staph infection. Its symptoms are rashes with blisters that seep clear fluid. They then develop yellow scabs over the blisters.

Bacteremia

Other names for this staph infection are endocarditis, pneumonia, and meningitis. Bacteremia is the term given when staph bacteria enter the blood. Symptoms of this type of staph infection include fever and low blood pressure. 

Toxic Shock Syndrome

This type of staph infection is usually linked to misusing tampons. The symptoms are stomach aches, muscle aches, fever, and diarrhea. Some people will develop rashes on their feet and hands and fever.

Food Poisoning

This type of staph infection arises when a person eats spoiled or old food containing staph bacteria. Symptoms of this type of staph infection include nausea, diarrhea, dehydration, low blood pressure, and vomiting.

MRSA

When a staph infection becomes resistant to antibiotics, it is called MRSA or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. These infections will need specific antibiotic treatment to avoid further complications.

Septic Arthritis

When staph bacteria enter the fingers, knees, toes, shoulders, or hip joints, it is called septic arthritis. These symptoms are swollen joints and fever.

staph infection doctor

You need to visit urgent care or the ER right away if you have the following symptoms:

  • Weeping blisters on the skin.
  • Rashes that are painful and irritated.
  • Fever.
  • Rashes are being spread from one person to another in the house.

Staph Infection Treatment

Treatment varies according to the type of staph infection you have. Generally, the area needs to be cleaned thoroughly. In some cases, antibiotics are needed. In severe cases, IV antibiotics and fluids must also be administered.

Get Staph Infection Treatment at Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care

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: