Do You Have Impetigo? 7 Facts to Know

Are you wondering if the red, itchy rash appearing on your skin is actually impetigo? It's time to find out the facts about this highly contagious skin infection! In this article, we'll explore seven key facts about impetigo - from its symptoms and causes to its treatment options - so that you can make an informed decision if you've been diagnosed with this condition.

Impetigo- A Quick Overview

Impetigo is a common skin condition that may spread to other people. It is the epidermis infection (superficial layer of the skin) caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It may appear on your face, arms, and legs. Moreover, it may affect anybody, but majorly youngsters, particularly those between the ages of 2 and 5.

Any break in the skin, no matter how little, is a potential entry point for the infection. This includes scrapes, insect bites, and rashes like eczema. However, it may also appear on otherwise healthy skin. When it infects healthy skin, the condition is referred to as primary impetigo; when it develops on injured skin, it is referred to as secondary impetigo. It is not always required to draw this difference, nor is it always convenient to do so.

Now with this basic fundamental supplement, it's time to learn about impetigo through the lens of these seven less-known facts.

Seven less-known Facts about Impetigo

Impetigo is only Associated with a Moderate level of Itching, if any Itching at all

Itchiness is a common symptom that may take the form of sores, blisters, and crusting. It’s imperative in impetigo too, both in children and adults. But it’s not severe, and some individuals do not feel any itching. Mostly, people confuse impetigo with chickenpox, as the infection causes itching followed by tiny blisters that are filled with fluid. But itchiness associated with chickenpox can be comparable to scabies that often come with symptoms of high temperature, headache, and an inability to eat. Chickenpox blisters that are fresh (or fresher) are commonly filled with clear fluid and appear on a red, circular region of irritated skin. Unlike impetigo blisters, chickenpox blisters do not often develop a crust or ooze as impetigo blisters do.

The Underlying Cause of Impetigo is Distinct from that of other skin rashes in the Following ways

The root cause of impetigo is different from other skin rashes. Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that may be caused by either the staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria present on the skin. The root cause can be a cut, scrape, or insect bite that allows the bacteria to enter the body and develop an infection on the top layer of the skin. In contrast, scabies is caused by mites and ringworm by fungi. Similarly, rashes are the result of an allergic reaction such as those experienced with poison ivy. Some sores and rashes could also be triggered by a viral infection like cold sores or chickenpox.

When Treated with Antibiotics, Impetigo Typically only Lasts for one Week at a Time

Impetigo lasts longer than other skin rashes, which is another way in which it stands out from other skin conditions. If antibiotics are used to treat impetigo, the condition often improves within a week. The rash will often cure without leaving any scars between two and four weeks if it is allowed to heal on its own. The length of chickenpox is much less. It also goes away on its own, but only after around 5 to 10 days have passed. A scabies infestation can’t heal on its own. To eradicate the mites, you will need to make an appointment with your primary care physician and use a topical medication. The good news is that this medication works rapidly, and one treatment that is administered from your neck down is often sufficient to eradicate mites and their eggs. But even if treatment for scabies is quick, itching may persist for a few weeks thereafter.

Children are more Likely than Adults to be Affected by Impetigo

Impetigo is a one-of-a-kind virus because, even though anybody may have it, children and babies are the most likely to be affected by it. This infectious skin illness has the potential to spread rapidly across educational institutions and childcare facilities. Adults who assist their children in caring for blisters and other wounds run the risk of contracting an infection themselves. As a result, it is essential to practice proper safety measures while caring for lesions. The blisters and sores caused by impetigo need to be cleaned and covered every day, as well as treated with a topical antibiotic. If you have touched an impetigo lesion, you should wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap to help prevent the illness from spreading.

Impetigo is a Skin Infection That Can Develop as a Complication of Other Skin Conditions

Impetigo is noteworthy since it may develop from another skin disorder. Scratching eczema or chickenpox outbreak may damage your skin. Staph and strep bacteria may enter via this. Rashes cause itching, so alleviate it. Apply soothing lotion or anti-itch cream. Gauze may prevent rash, itching and consequences. Covering skin prevents infectious rashes from spreading.

Impetigo may cause Complications on its own, but it can be Avoided by following some basic Preventative Measures.

Fortunately, impetigo seldom causes serious consequences. Ecthyma may result from not treating the rash with antibiotics (when impetigo penetrates a deeper layer of the skin). Deep infections may cause lasting scarring, but persons with lower immune systems are more prone to have them. Hygiene and topical medicines are enough to hasten to heal and avoid deeper infections. Cellulitis is another impetigo consequence. Strep germs cause post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Immune reactions cause kidney inflammation and damage.

Contrary to Other Skin rashes, Impetigo may easily spread from person to Person.

Rashes may spread like impetigo. Cold sores, ringworm, scabies, and chickenpox. Impetigo differs from allergic rashes. These rashes are not communicable, like poison ivy. Poison ivy causes skin reactions when touched, and it does not spread; only plant-exposed skin develops this rash. On the other hand, impetigo spreads to anyplace on the body.

Conclusion

Understanding impetigo is an essential part of overcoming it in the first place. We have discussed seven key facts about impetigo. Based on all these facts, if you feel you have impetigo, visit a doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Remember, always practice good hygiene to prevent getting this infection in the future. With proper care, your skin can heal quickly and become healthy again.