About Skin Infection :

infections are caused by a wide variety of germs, and symptoms can vary from mild to serious. These infections can affect skin, hair as well as nails.

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Types :

• Bacterial such as Cellulitis, impetigo and boils

• Viral such as Shingles (Herpes), Chicken pox, Warts, Measles, Molluscum contagiosum

• Fungal such as Ringworm, athlete's foot, Yeast infection, Nail fungus, oral thrush, Diaper rash

• Parasitic such as lice, bed bugs and scabies.

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Causes :

The cause depends on type of infection

• Bacterial skin infection: This occurs when bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin, such as a cut or a scratch. More common among people with weakened immunity.

• Viral skin infection: The most common viruses come from one of three groups of viruses: poxvirus, human papillomavirus, and herpes virus.

• Fungal skin infection: Body chemistry and lifestyle can increase the risk of a fungal infection. For example, you may experience athlete’s foot if you’re a runner or if you sweat a lot. Fungi often grows in warm, moist environments.

• Parasitic skin infection: Tiny insects or organisms burrowing underneath your skin and laying eggs can cause a parasitic skin infection.

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Presentation :

Symptoms of a skin infection may vary depending on the type. Common symptoms include redness of the skin and a rash. You may also experience other symptoms, such as itching, pain, and tenderness.

Skin infections can spread beyond the skin and into the bloodstream. When this happens it can become life-threatening. 

Signs of a severe infection include:

• pus

• blisters

• skin sloughing, breakdown

• dark, necrotic-appearing skin, or skin that becomes discolored and painful

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Skin Infections: Tips for Managing

Home care for a skin infection works to reduce symptoms. Home care may include the following: 

• Apply cold compresses to your skin several times a day to reduce itching and inflammation. 

• Take antihistamines to decrease itching. 

• Use topical creams and ointment to reduce itching and discomfort.

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Best way to prevent is frequent HAND WASHING.

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Myths v/s reality

• Skin infection is not just limited to teenagers, adults can experience it too.