Staphylococcus is the bacteria responsible for triggering a variety of diseases that range from minor to life-threatening. It is important to note that there are several types that affect the skin including the mucous membranes in the nose and throat. The common staph infections are instigated by staphylococcus aureus. Any break or cut in the skin will enable the staph bacteria to enter inside the body and travel to organs where they can cause more damage. If you want to learn more about similar conditions, click here.
Usual symptoms
The simplest symptom of a staph infection is a boil which is a collection of pus accompanied by swelling and redness. This often develops at the groin or armpits and can break and release pus and blood. If left untreated, it can progress into impetigo and cellulitis.
Impetigo is quite common among children and typically involves blisters that ooze out pus or other liquids and have an exterior yellow crust. These sores are usually around the mouth and nose. As for cellulitis, it often occurs among the elderly particularly in the feet and legs. The follicles create dimples that provide the skin with the appearance of orange peel.
In some cases, scalded skin syndrome can develop but this is rare and only occurs in infants. The condition is characterized by rashes, blisters and fever. Once the blisters burst, the skin underneath appears burned and red in color
What are the severe symptoms?
It is important to note that scaled skin syndrome typically occurs in children below five years old. The bacteria generate exotoxin that destroys the structures that keep the skin layers together. The blisters form and the skin slough off. Take note that this can occur over wide areas and can be life-threatening.
Oftentimes, the infection occurs in hospitals if unsanitary procedures were used. It is vital to treat scalded skin syndrome with the administration of intravenous antibiotics as well as preventing the skin from becoming dehydrated.
Toxic shock syndrome is linked to surgery, wounds and tampon use. As a life-threatening condition, the symptoms include fever and indications of shock such as rashes, nausea and vomiting, headaches, seizures, muscle aches and low blood pressure. Take note that this can be fatal in a matter of days.
Another condition is septic arthritis which is also caused by the staph bacteria when they enter the joints. The symptoms of the condition include pain, joint swelling, fever and chills.
Drug resistance
MSRA or methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus is a strain that is highly resistant to various antibiotics and can be deadly. Most cases of MSRA infections usually occur in healthcare facilities. Those who are too young and old or have weakened immune systems are at high risk. The symptoms of this infection include small, red-colored bumps that are similar to spider bites or pimples that eventually turn into deep and sore abscesses. In most cases, they require surgical draining. In some cases, the bacteria can penetrate into the skin and cause infections in the joints, bones, blood, organs and surgical incisions.