The largest organ in your body is your skin. It serves as an infection defense for your body. Sometimes, the infection spreads to the skin itself. While some infections can be treated at home or with over-the-counter medicines, some may need to be treated by family medicine doctors in Austin.
To learn more about skin infections and what to do if you have one, continue reading.
What are the causes and risk factors for a skin infection?
The type of infection determines the cause of the skin infection.
Bacterial skin infection: This happens when bacteria get into the body through a skin break, such as a cut or scratch. Even though getting a cut or scratch doesn't guarantee you'll get a skin infection, having a compromised immune system raises your risk. A sickness or a side effect may cause a weakened immune system.
Viral skin infection: The poxvirus, human papillomavirus, and herpes virus are the three types of viruses that are most prevalent.
Fungal infection: The likelihood of a fungal infection can rise depending on lifestyle and physical state. For instance, if you sweat a lot, you could get athlete's foot more than once. Warm, damp surroundings are ideal for fungi to thrive.
A potential risk for skin infections is wearing wet or sweaty clothing. Bacteria may enter the deeper layers of the skin through a fracture or cut in the skin.
Parasitic skin infection: A parasitic skin infection can be brought on by tiny creatures that burrow under your skin and produce eggs.
How is a skin infection diagnosed?
The best way to identify the source of a skin infection is by performing a thorough medical examination. Family medicine professionals in Austin can determine the type of skin infection based on the location and appearance.
Enquire about your symptoms and have your family medicine doctor in Austin to examine any lumps, rashes, or lesions. For instance, fungus frequently results in a recognizable circular, scaly rash. In some circumstances, a sample of skin cells can assist your doctor in identifying the infection type.
How is a skin infection treated?
The type and extent of the infection will determine how it is treated. Some viral skin infections may heal on their own in days or weeks.
Topical antibiotics can be used directly to the skin or oral antibiotics to treat bacterial infections. If the bacterial strain is difficult to treat, treating the illness can necessitate intravenous antibiotics in a medical facility.
A fungus-related skin infection can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal sprays and lotions. Consult your doctor about prescription oral or topical medications if your issue doesn't improve.
You can also cure viral skin infections by using medicated creams. Anti-inflammatory pills are the only medication your family medicine doctor in Austin would advise you to take to ease discomfort.
Home treatments Options for Skin Infection
Symptoms of a skin infection can be managed at home. These are some examples of home care you can try:
- Use cold compresses on your skin daily to lessen inflammation and itching.
- To lessen itching, take over-the-counter medications.
- To reduce itchiness and irritation, apply topical lotions and lotions.
You can consult with a doctor for the best treatment.
Conclusion
There are many ways to lessen the likelihood of getting a skin infection. One of the finest ways is frequent hand washing. Minor to severe skin diseases are possible. If you have a skin condition that hurts you, schedule a visit with your family medicine doctor in Austin. They will give you the care you need to get well.
For active people of all ages, top-notch family and sports medical healthcare is our area of expertise at Medicine in Motion in Austin, Texas. We aim to keep you healthy and fit since we think active bodies are healthy. Contact us to get started.
