As we navigate through life, our skin undergoes several transformations, including skin ageing, it also gets influenced from the surrounding environment, and infections. One of the infections that can occur in people of all ages but is most common in children is impetigo. It is a skin disease that is easily spread and, if not treated, can cause discomfort and other complications. Knowledge of the causes, signs, and preventive measures will help achieve healthy skin and protect against skin infections.
What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a highly contagious skin disease that is most often caused by bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. It is characterized by red pimples or blisters on the face, particularly around the lips and the nose, but they can also occur on any other part of the body. This condition mainly affects children, but it can also sometimes affect adults if exposed to crowded or unhygienic places.
Impetigo Causes
Impetigo is mainly caused by bacteria. Here are some key impetigo causes that contribute to its development:
- Bacterial Infection:
The main impetigo causes are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. These bacteria can get into the skin through a crack on the surface, such as a scratch, a cut, or an insect bite. - Poor Hygiene:
Bacterial infections break out if the hygiene measures are not followed. It is easily transmitted through contact, and as a result, it can easily spread through areas where people are in close contact, such as schools or daycare centers. - Skin Conditions:
This infection can also be a result of skin conditions like eczema and other skin injuries that weaken the skin’s protective barrier against the bacteria. - Weather:
It is known to be caused by bacteria, and therefore warm weather, especially that which is humid, is likely to increase the spread of the disease. - Contact with Infected Individuals:
The infection can also be transferred from one person to another by touch or sharing of other personal items such as towels and razors.
Impetigo Symptoms
It is important to have some knowledge about impetigo symptoms and manifestations to avoid passing on the disease after getting a diagnosis. Common symptoms include:
- Red Sores or Blisters:
The infection usually starts with red rashes that progress to form pustules or vesicles within a short time. - Honey-Colored Crusts:
The sores may ooze and crust all over. The crust may be honey-colored. - Itching or Pain:
The affected areas may be itchy or painful, and therefore, can cause discomfort. - Swollen Lymph Nodes:
Sometimes, the lymph nodes near the infected area may also become enlarged. - Fever:
It is rare to have a fever, but some people might have a mild fever.
Impetigo Treatment
If you think you or someone you know has impetigo, it is important to consult a doctor. The impetigo treatment typically involves:
- Topical Antibiotics:
In mild cases, the doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics to be used on the affected areas of the skin. Topical agents used in the treatment of this condition are mupirocin or retapamulin. - Oral Antibiotics:
In cases where the infection is severe or when there are widely spread symptoms, the doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics. These may help in getting rid of the bacteria from the body; hence, it minimizes the chances of getting complications. - Proper Hygiene:
The affected part should also be clean and should be covered so that the infection does not spread to other body parts. Regularly wash your hands and do not scratch the infected area. - Avoid Scratching:
While it can be hard to resist the itching, scratching the sores could be an even bigger problem since it prolongs healing. - Soothing Creams:
Topical creams that are available without prescription can be used to alleviate pain and inflammation of the skin.
Preventing Impetigo
Some of the precautions that can be taken to avoid getting an infection include proper hygiene and knowledge about the disease. Here are some tips:
- Maintain Good Hygiene:
Habits such as washing of hands and taking a bath are very effective in preventing the spread of bacteria. - Avoid Close Contact:
Avoid contact with people who have active impetigo and do not share personal belongings. - Treat Existing Skin Conditions:
It is important to treat other skin diseases such as eczema in order to have little chance of contracting the infection. - Keep Wounds Clean:
Treat any kinds of wounds like cuts, scratches, or any insect’s sting to reduce the chances of bacteria getting to the skin.
Conclusion
Impetigo is a skin disease where people can experience discomfort and various complications. Knowledge of causes, defining symptoms of the disease, and getting the right treatment for the disease go a long way. If a person has or thinks they have impetigo, they should seek medical advice about how to treat it effectively and avoid its recurrence. Therefore, one ought to be knowledgeable on the causes to avoid the skin condition, besides practicing good hygiene in order to have healthy skin.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430974/#:~:text=Impetigo%20is%20a%20common%20infection,highly%20contagious%20and%20spread%20easily.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/impetigo/symptoms-causes/syc-20352352
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15134-impetigo
https://www.healthline.com/health/impetigo
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/understanding-impetigo-basics
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/impetigo/
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/965254-overview?form=fpf
