Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection that affects children. It’s essential to recognise the symptoms early and seek appropriate treatment to prevent the infection from spreading and to help your child recover quickly. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms and treatments for impetigo in Farnham Common.
What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused primarily by two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. It typically appears as red sores or blisters on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, but it can also occur on other parts of the body, such as the hands and feet. These sores can burst and form a yellowish-brown crust.
What are the Causes of Impetigo?
Impetigo is most commonly seen in children aged 2 to 5 years, but it can affect people of all ages. The infection spreads easily through direct contact with the sores or nasal discharge of an infected person. Children are more susceptible because they often come into close contact with each other while playing and their skin is more likely to have minor cuts or abrasions where the bacteria can enter.
Factors that increase the risk of impetigo include:
- Poor hygiene
- Warm, humid weather
- Close contact with an infected person
- Participation in sports that involve skin-to-skin contact, such as wrestling
- Having other skin conditions like eczema
The symptoms of impetigo can vary, but they typically include:
- Red sores or blisters, especially around the nose and mouth
- Sores that burst and ooze, then form a yellowish-brown crust
- Itching and discomfort at the site of the sores
- Swollen lymph nodes near the affected area
In some cases, impetigo can cause fever and general malaise, but this is less common.
Can Impetigo Be Treated?
Treating impetigo promptly is important to prevent the infection from spreading and to alleviate discomfort. The best treatment for impetigo in East Burnham involves both hygiene measures and medical treatment.
The hygiene measures include:
- Clean the Affected Area: Gently wash the sores with soap and water. Avoid scrubbing, as this can irritate the skin further.
- Keep the Area Covered: Cover the sores with gauze or a bandage to prevent spreading the infection to others.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, bedding or clothing with others until the infection has cleared.
- Wash Hands Frequently: Ensure that the child and caregivers wash their hands regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria.
The impetigo treatment available in Farnham Common includes:
For mild cases of impetigo, over-the-counter antibiotic ointments may be effective. However, for more severe cases or when the infection does not improve with over-the-counter treatments, our pharmacists may prescribe antibiotics.
- Topical Antibiotics: These are applied directly to the sores. Commonly prescribed topical antibiotics include mupirocin (Bactroban) and retapamulin (Altabax). These treatments are often effective within a few days.
- Oral Antibiotics: In cases where impetigo is widespread or the topical treatment is ineffective, oral antibiotics may be necessary. Common oral antibiotics include cephalexin, dicloxacillin and clindamycin.
Best Treatment for Impetigo on the Face
The face is a sensitive area and treating impetigo on the face requires gentle care. Topical antibiotics are usually preferred for facial impetigo, as they are less likely to cause systemic side effects. It’s essential to follow the prescribed treatment regimen closely and to avoid picking at the sores to prevent scarring.
Can You Get Impetigo Treatment from a Pharmacy?
Yes, you can obtain treatment advice for impetigo from Aroga Pharmacy which offers Pharmacy First. Our pharmacists recommend over-the-counter antibiotic ointments for mild cases.
For those living in Farnham Common seeking treatment for impetigo involves consulting our pharmacists who can prescribe antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Early treatment is important to prevent complications and alleviate pain.
Schedule a Consultation at Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common Today!
Impetigo is a common and contagious skin infection in children that can be effectively treated with proper hygiene and appropriate medical care. Early recognition of symptoms and timely treatment are essential to prevent the spread of the infection and ensure a quick recovery.
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of impetigo, visit us today for expert advice and treatment options with Pharmacy First. For those living in Gerrards Cross, Farnham Royal, Hedgerley and Fulmer, seeking treatment for impetigo involves consulting our pharmacists who can prescribe antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to help you find the best solution for your needs. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards effective treatment and relief.