Skin infections are a prevalent health concern, affecting an estimated 25 percent of the American population at some point in their lives. These infections can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, leading to conditions such as cellulitis, impetigo, and herpes. The frequency of skin infections underscores the necessity for public awareness regarding hygiene practices and prompt medical attention.
Reference: American Academy of Dermatology (.pdf)
If you or a loved one suspect you have a skin infection, contact us today at Colorado Springs Dermatology Clinic, PC, to schedule a medical evaluation with one of our board-certified dermatologists in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, or Cañon City:
What is a skin infection?
A skin infection is any condition caused by a problematic microbe living on or in the skin. As you might guess, this is quite a broad category of health problems. If you have a skin infection, you might be dealing with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Symptoms can range from mild issues like redness to serious problems like large sores. Some of the most common types of issues that you might deal with include:
- Staph infections
- Cellulitis
- Impetigo
- Shingles
- Herpes
- Warts
- Ringworm
- Athlete’s foot
Reference: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
What can cause skin infections?
Skin infections can occur anytime you come into contact with a dangerous microbe. Your body’s immune system often fights off a stray bacteria cell or two. However, if it cannot do so, viruses, bacteria, and fungi might end up infecting your skin and causing problems. Certain factors increase your chances of getting an infection:
- Having unprotected, open wounds
- Swimming in unclean water
- Sharing personal items with other people who have infections
- Wearing wet clothes or footwear
- Having large folds of skin
- Being in hospitals, schools, or other crowded regions
- Having a weak immune system
- Being a senior or an infant
- Having other skin problems like eczema
How are skin infections tested?
Testing for skin infections typically involves a combination of physical examination and laboratory testing. During the physical exam, a healthcare provider will assess the affected area for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, and discharge. Based on the examination, they may obtain a sample of skin, pus, or fluid from the infected area for further analysis. Common laboratory tests include culture tests, where the sample is placed in a medium to encourage the growth of bacteria, fungi, or viruses, allowing for accurate identification of the pathogen responsible for the infection. Blood tests may also be conducted to assess systemic involvement or evaluate the patient’s overall health status. Prompt and accurate testing is essential to determine the appropriate treatment course and prevent complications.
How are skin infections treated?
Medicine is often the first type of care you’ll try for a skin infection. Once your doctor finds out what is causing your infection, they’ll prescribe the appropriate antibiotics or other pills. Along with medicine to manage the infection, they might also suggest treatments to care for your symptoms. Soothing lotions, anti-itch creams, or antihistamines can help with itching, swelling, and other symptoms. You can treat most skin infections at home, but some severe ones might need a hospital stay.
Why see a dermatologist?
This type of doctor provides the ideal treatment for a skin infection. Unlike a standard doctor, a dermatologist has extensive experience dealing with skin issues. This knowledge lets them rule out other causes of skin problems and diagnose obscure infections. They will also have access to many of the tools needed to manage infections. This lets them quickly take samples, identify the issue, and provide the right care.
Our CSDERM locations
We offer medical dermatology at four CSDERM locations:
Central Colorado Springs
170 Parkside Dr
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Phone: (719) 471-1763
North Colorado Springs
2060 Briargate Pkwy, Ste 150
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Phone: (719) 471-1763
Pueblo
406 North Main St
Pueblo, CO 81003
Phone: (719) 566-0176
Cañon City
1332 Bauer Ln
Cañon City, CO 81212
Phone: (719) 275-7485