Common Skin Infections and How to Treat Them

Our body's largest organ is the skin, and it also serves as a protective barrier from external threats. That being said, it is also prone to skin infections. Ranging from simple irritations to severe conditions, skin infections can strike anyone, regardless of age or skin type.

At Heights Dermatology, we believe that early identification and optimal treatment are necessary for the health of the skin. In this blog, we are going to identify the most frequent skin infections, their origin, signs, and best treatment methods.

What Are Skin Infections?

Bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic invasion of the skin leads to infection, inflammation, irritation, or destruction of the skin. While a few are mild and heal on their own, others spread, are painful, or result in severe complications when not treated.

Knowing the different forms of skin infection can also enable you to act promptly when you develop the signs.

1. Bacterial Skin Infections

Common Forms

• Cellulitis

• Impetigo

• Folliculitis

• Furuncles (boils)

Causes and Symptoms

Bacterial skin infection is usually due to Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. They enter the skin by way of cuts, bite wounds due to insects, or abrasions.

• Impetigo commonly appears as red sores that burst, ooze, and develop a yellowish brown crust.

• Cellulitis is associated with redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the infected region and is also accompanied by fever.

• Hair follicles are infected by folliculitis, causing red bumps or pustules.

• Boils are painful, inflamed lumps that are pus-filled.

Treatment

• Topical or oral antibiotics are usually prescribed according to severity.

• Warm compresses can ease the pain and enhance drainage.

• In certain instances, incision and drainage are required for large boils.

2. Fungal Skin Infections

Common types

• Fungus of athlete's foot or tinea pedis

• Ringworm (Tinea corporis)

• Jock itch (Tinea cruris)

• Yeast Infections (Candidiasis)

Causes and Symptoms

• Fungi do best in warm, wet conditions and usually result from dermatophytes or yeast for example Candida species)

• Itching, scaling, and cracking, commonly between the toes, are caused by the athlete's foot.

• Ringworm is characterized by red, circular, scaly spots on the body.

• Itchy, red rashes affect the groin and thighs in jock itch.

• Candidiasis causes red, itchy, wet patches, commonly in folds of the skin.

Treatment

Treatment may involve

• Prescription or over-the-counter antifungal creams, powders, or sprays.

• Severe or recurrent cases can be treated with oral antifungals.

• Keeping the wound clean and dry is essential for prevention and healing.

3. Viral Skin Infections

Common Forms:

• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

• Warts due to Human Papillomavirus - HPV

• Molluscum Contagiosum

• Chickenpox and Shingles

Causes and Symptoms

They are caused by viruses that infect both the mucous membranes and the skin.

• Herpes simplex creates cold sores or genital herpes with sore, painful blisters.

• Warts are rough, elevated lumps that occur on hands, feet, or the genitalia.

• Molluscum contagiosum produces tiny, shiny, flesh colored bumps

• Shingles, a reactivation of the chickenpox virus, is characterized by painful, blister-like rashes that occur commonly on one side of the body.

Treatment

• Antiviral drugs like acyclovir can decrease the severity and duration of HSV and shingles.

• Salicylic acid treatments or cryotherapy are used in removing warts.

• Molluscum contagiosum can be treated with topical therapy or small surgical interventions.

• Keeping a healthy, efficient immune system is also instrumental in controlling and preventing skin conditions caused by viruses.

4. Parasitic Skin Infections

Common Type:

• Cutaneous larva migrans

• Lice

• Scabies

Causes and Symptoms

Parasitic infection is due to organisms that inhabit on or in the skin.

• Scabies is due to the Sarcoptes scabiei mite and is characterized by severe itch and pimple-like rash.

• They infest the body or scalp, leading to intense itchiness and observable nits or lice.

• Cutaneous larva migrans is a creeping rash due to invasion of the skin by hookworm larvae, commonly found following barefoot exposure in contaminated regions.

Treatment

• Permethrin or ivermectin prescription topical treatments are very effective.

• More severe cases may call for oral medications.

• Hygienic practices, including washing of clothes and bedding, are necessary in order to avoid reinfestation.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

Whereas certain skin infections are treatable at home, professional advice should be sought out in the case of

• The infection is getting worse or spreading

• You have fever, chills, or fatigue

• The region gets redder and hurts more

• Your immune system is weakened

• Over-the-counter medications have proven ineffective

At Heights Dermatology, our skilled dermatologist in Houston is able to identify the nature of the skin infection and offer a personalized treatment routine that leads to a speedy and successful recovery.

Skin Infection Prevention

Prevention is usually better than a cure. Take the following precautions to minimize your risk:

• Practice good personal hygiene: Take daily baths, wash your hands, and dry and clean your skin.

• Avoid a personal item exchange: Towels, razors, and clothing are transmitters of fungi and bacteria.

• Wear breathable garments: Fungus growth is avoided with moisture-wicking material.

• Keep your skin safe: Insect repellent, shoes in the open, and prompt treatment on cuts or scrapes.

• Improve your immune system: By eating a well-balanced diet, sleeping well, and controlling your stress.

Trust Heights Dermatology for Your Skin Health

Whether you have a persistent rash, inexplicable bumps, or an aching boil, our team of professionals at Heights Dermatology is here for you. Our board-certified dermatologists employ the use of cutting-edge diagnostic equipment and evidence-based treatment in treating all forms of skin infection. Through personalized care in a relaxed and professional environment, we are dedicated to empowering you with confidence in your skin.

Skin infections are more than a mere nuisance, they can also impact your comfort, your confidence, and your overall health. At Heights Dermatology, we treat any condition affecting your skin, ensuring your recovery is fast and further damage is avoided. Call us today for an appointment or schedule online. Your skin is in good hands with Heights Dermatology, trust us with its health and beauty.