Skin Infections 

Skin is a complex structure that covers your body and comprises different layers. As the body's outer layer, the skin is the first line of defense against disease and infection. The skin is the largest organ in your body, enveloping it in a protective layer. Several organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites can attack your skin and lead to infections. This can range from mild to serious and cause a cascade of symptoms. Anyone can contract a skin infection. However, certain risk factors can increase the susceptibility two to threefold. The treatment for skin infections depends on the symptoms' cause and severity. Mild skin infections can be treated easily through pharmacy drugs, but stubborn infections require diagnosis and treatment.

Read on to learn more about skin infections, including their types, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention! 

What is a Skin Infection?

Skin infection is the invasion of skin tissues by pathogens like fungi, bacteria, virus, or parasite,  their multiplication, and the reaction of host skin tissues to the infectious agents and the toxins they produce. 

What Are the Types of Skin Infections?

There are four different types of skin infections, namely:

Bacterial Infections 

• These occur when bacteria enter the skin through an outside source or bacteria present in the skin. 
• Bacterial infections can be local or systemic. 
• Local infections affect only a specific area in your body, while systemic infections cause symptoms.
• Some bacterial infections may spread only from one area in your body to another, while others can spread from person to person. 
• Types of bacterial infections include:
• Cellulitis
• Impetigo
• Boils
• Leprosy 
• Syphilis 
• Tuberculosis

Viral Infections

• These infections are a result of contagious viruses that can spread easily. 
• The common viral infection usually develops due to herpes, papillomavirus, and pox.
• Viral infections are often systemic in nature. 
• Some common viral Infections include:
• Chickenpox
• Shingles (herpes zoster)
• Warts 
• Measles
• Hand, foot, and mouth disease 

Fungal Infections

• These infections are caused by fungi and are most likely to develop in moist areas of the body where surfaces meet, such as armpits or feet. 
• Different types of fungal infections include:
• Athlete's foot
• Ringworm
• Oral thrush 
• Nail fungus 
• Diaper rash 

Parasitic Infections 

• These infections are caused by a parasite that may usually remain dormant or inactive throughout but may cause symptoms when triggered by certain factors. 
• They may spread beyond the skin into the bloodstream and into different organs.
• Some common parasitic infections are as follows:
• Scabies
• Lice 
• Bed bugs 

What Are the Risk Factors For Developing Skin Infections?

Anyone can get skin infections due to bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic invasion. However, certain risk factors can make you more prone to developing infections in your skin. These include:

• Poor wound care 
• Working in an environment like gardening or construction  
• Have certain health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, or other lung diseases
• Have a weak immune system (as seen in HIV or cancer)
• Taking immunosuppressants
• Being pregnant 
• Exposure to polluted air 
• Having poor hygiene practices 
• Undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy  
• Having sweaty feet
• Wearing closed shoes
• Having skin folds due to excess body fat
• Bathing in contaminated water 
• Sharing personal items with infected people
• Live or travel in tropical or subtropical regions of the world

What Are the Symptoms of Skin Infections?

Symptoms of skin infections may vary in intensity and the cause. Some common symptoms include:

Localized Symptoms·

• Rashes
• Sores
• Warts
• Scaly patches or lesions
• Blisters.
• Bruising
• Bleeding 

Other Generalized Symptoms ·

• Cold, fever, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue 
• Sore throat, runny nose,  sneezing, cough, nasal congestion, and post-nasal drip
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea 
• Joint pain, dark-colored urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice  
• Painful intercourse, painful urination, pelvic or vaginal discharge, rashes or inflamed genitals 
• Photophobia, neck stiffness, lethargy

How is Skin Infection Diagnosed?

Skin infections can be diagnosed by your doctor based on your:

• Symptoms 
• Medical history
• Family history
• Lifestyle habits 

Your doctor will further evaluate the area or part being affected to check for any swelling, tenderness, or skin changes. Furthermore, you will be ordered to undergo a few diagnostic tests that can help confirm a bacterial infection. These include the following:

Laboratory Tests·

• Blood culture 
• Phlegm or sputum test
• Skin biopsy
• Urine test
• Stool test 
• Fluid or secretion test (from the eyes or brain)

Imaging Tests·

• X-rays
• Ultrasound scans 
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
• CT scan (computed tomography)

How Are Skin Infections Treated?

Treating skin conditions with appropriate options is based on the cause, type, and severity. Mild infections go away on their own and respond well to over-the-counter medicines. However, severe forms of skin infections require medications like:

• Antibiotics
• Antivirals 
• Antifungal 
• Antiparasitics 

Home Remedies 

• Apply a cold compress to your skin several times a day to manage inflammation, swelling, and itching 
• Take antihistamines to decrease itching 
• Use topical soothing creams and lotions to reduce itching and discomfort 

Can Skin Infections Be Prevented?

Certain tips can help prevent skin infections by lowering your risk. These include:

• Wash and keep yourself clean regularly
• Dry the body way to remove moisture 
• Avoid sharing personal items with others 
• Check your skin regularly for any changes and seek help if you notice any abnormal rash
• Take the recommended vaccines to prevent diseases such as chickenpox

Bottom Line 

Skin infections are common and can be caused by bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic pathogens. They result in skin rashes and other associated symptoms like itching, discomfort, bruising, swelling, and discoloration. The pathogens can also cause systemic inflammation, leading to generalized symptoms. Mild infections are highly treatable through OTC drugs, but severe forms require prompt diagnosis and treatment. If you notice any skin rash or changes, contact your dermatologist for further evaluation and management. 

FAQs

1.  What are the most common skin infections?

Impetigo boils and folliculitis are the most common skin infections that may cause a rash, itching, swelling, and inflammation. 

2. How long do skin infections last?

Local symptoms like swelling, itching, and skin rash begin to improve within two to three days after treatment. Although, sometimes the symptoms may persist for around 2 weeks.