Impetigo

What is Impetigo?

Commonly known as “school sores,” Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection that happens mainly due to either of the two bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. Impetigo is the most common skin infection among children. It can occur in adults as well, but remains more prevalent in children. It is a contagious disease and can spread through close contact.

Symptoms

Flu is easily confused with a bad cold. Mentioned below are a few symptoms which differentiate flu from cold:

  • High fever.
  • Muscle pain: aching joints and limbs.
  • Cold sweats and shivers.
  • Fatigue.
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

 

Causes

Influenza is caused by influenza virus and spreads from one person to another through the air.

Risks

Generally, Influenza is not a serious condition, but for some people it can become a serious health issue. In elderly people, babies or young children, pregnant women, and people with long standing illnesses, flu can cause the following:

  • Weakening the immune system.
  • Diarrhoea.
  • Bacterial pneumonia.
  • Ear infection.

 

Prevention

Following are some measures that can be taken to prevent influenza

  • Getting vaccinated every year.
  • Washing hands.
  • Covering your mouth while sneezing or coughing.
  • Avoid touching eyes.
  • Keeping yourself hydrated by increasing fluid intake.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically based on the symptoms. Usually, a look by the doctor is enough to diagnose impetigo. The doctor may remove a small piece of the sore skin to send it to the lab to identify th...

How is it treated?

At Medanta, the following treatment methods are used to treat Impetigo:

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  • Medication

    Mild impetigo can be healed by applying antibiotic or bactericidal ointment. Simple hygiene methods also help the skin to heal and prevents impetigo from spreading. If crust formation is noticed, the doctor may suggest removing the crusts or softening them by soaking them in warm water and then patting them dry. Make sure you or your child does not scratch the sores as it can spread the infection to other parts of the body. The sores may be covered with loose bandages as it needs air to heal.
    If the impetigo is serious, then the doctor may prescribe antibiotic pills or cream. Usually, the sores heal in 1 week if the prescribed method are followed. Untreated impetigo usually heals within 2 to 3 weeks. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching skin affected by impetigo.

When do I contact the doctor?

A doctor must be consulted if impetigo is not getting any better even after taking proper medication and precautions. A dermatologist should be contacted when the symptoms start to appear on the skin. 

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How does Medanta provide care?

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Consult with experienced doctors

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