Bacteria are one of the smallest organisms. Most of these are pretty harmless. In fact, most bacteria are useful in the digestion of food, destruction of cells that cause diseases, break down of vitamins, and maintenance of a healthy gut. However, there are a few bacteria such as streptococcus, staphylococcus, and so on that release toxin in the body, damage tissues, and cause infections. The infections can range from mild to severe. It can affect different parts of the body, including the skin. The intensity of the infection depends on the age of the person affected, their general health, and whether or not they have a strong immune system.
Read on to find out more about bacterial skin infections.
- Folliculitis: This bacterial skin infection occurs in the hair follicles. It appears as tiny red bumps filled with pus. This infection can be caused by the bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. People with acne are more prone to folliculitis. In men, it also affects beard growth and the risk increases with shaving. Although the infection goes away on its own in most cases without any treatment, there can be severe infections leading to permanent hair loss. There can be scarring as well. In some cases, a person may require a course of antibiotics.
- Furuncles: This skin infection affects the pilosebaceous unit that comprises the follicle, shaft, erector pili muscle, and the sebaceous gland. These units are everywhere on the body except the lower lip, palms, and soles of the feet. Furuncles usually form on the upper neck, face, and the chest. Boils filled with liquid form over the infected area. In most cases, warm compresses will help treat the furuncles.
- Hot tub folliculitis: This bacterial infection is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It affects the hair follicles. The bacteria are usually found in hot tubs, contaminated whirlpools, water slides, loofah sponges, and physiotherapy pools. Hence, the infection gets the name “hot tub folliculitis”. Children are more susceptible to this infection than adults since their skin is more sensitive, and they tend to stay in the water for a longer time.
- Erysipelas: This bacterial skin infection occurs due to Streptococcus. It affects the top two layers of the skin. The affected area becomes red and swollen, and there are large patches of infected skin that are clearly distinguishable from the normal skin. It causes an intense burning sensation and can often be very painful. This is why this skin infection is also known as St. Anthony’s Fire. In some cases, the infection can be accompanied by chills, blisters, and fevers. The skin on the face and legs is usually affected by this infection. It goes away after antibiotic treatment.
- Cellulitis: The two common causes of this bacterial skin infection are Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Similar to erysipelas, cellulitis also affects two layers of the skin, but at a deeper level. Cellulitis affects the dermis and the subcutaneous tissues. This skin infection affects the skin around the areas of ulcers and surgical wounds. The affected skin becomes red, swollen, and warm to touch. It is painful as well. In most cases, cellulitis occurs in the lower legs. However, it can also affect the arms, face, and other areas of the body. The bacteria can also affect the lymph nodes and the bloodstream if not treated on time. Treatments usually involve the intake of oral antibiotics.
- Carbuncles: A cluster of several furuncles packed together form carbuncles. This bacterial skin infection occurs when Staphylococcus aureus enters the hair follicles. Broken skin and moist areas of the body are also susceptible to this infection. Carbuncles usually affect the shoulders, thighs, buttocks, armpits, the groin, face, and the back of the neck. Boils filled with pus and liquid form over the infected skin. Carbuncles are treated with pain relievers, antibiotics, or antibacterial soaps. In some cases, surgery can be required to remove and drain large carbuncles or those that have formed deeper in the skin.
