With any kind of damage to the skin, whether it was acquired during an injury or surgery, the protective skin barrier can be jeopardized. Those with skin conditions (like eczema) may also be more predisposed to developing a skin infection. The symptoms of these infections can include an increase in redness, swelling, pain, and even deterioration of the skin.
As a highly contagious and bacterial skin infection, Impetigo is caused by staph or strep bacteria. Impetigo mainly affects children and begins as yellow, honey-colored scabs or crusts. Skin infections that are more commonly seen in adults include erysipelas and cellulitis, which form in deeper layers of the skin and cause swelling and redness. Some bacterial infections can result in abscesses that form as painful, sensitive, and red lumps. At Dermatology & Plastic Surgery Specialists, we encourage you to come in for treatment to prevent any bacteria from entering the bloodstream; this is considered a medical emergency and requires care immediately.
During your visit, our trained professionals will perform a skin culture and examination to accurately diagnose your infection. The next step is to prescribe the appropriate antibiotics and eliminate that strain of bacteria from your body. If you have any questions about our treatments for bacterial infections in Palm Desert, California, please call 760-773-6616 to address your concerns.