Signs of a Staph Infection and What to Do About Them

There are a few other kinds of conditions that can sometimes be mistaken for acne in certain cases, and Staph infections are a common example. Staph infections sometimes appear in similar ways to acne and can be mistaken for it as a result, but being able to tell the two apart is important to receive the proper treatment.

At Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic, we're proud to offer the best acne treatments and related services at our skincare clinic in Salt Lake City, Utah, with estheticians who are experts at identifying acne versus other potential skin issues. While we don't directly treat Staph infections, our estheticians are quite familiar with these issues and how to tell them apart from acne - and we'll even make recommendations on ideal doctors to speak to if it turns out your issue is indeed a Staph infection. Here are some basics on Staph infections and why they're a risk, plus some of the basic indicators our estheticians will use to identify them separately from acne.

Staph Infection Basics and Infection Methods

What exactly is a Staph infection, and how does it differ from acne? Staph infections are caused by the bacteria known as Staphylococcus aureus, which is commonly found on the skin and in the nose. While this bacterium is typically harmless, if it enters your body through a cut or wound, it can cause an infection. This is where things can become dangerous, as Staph infections can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

Staph infections are highly contagious and can spread easily through person-to-person contact or by touching contaminated surfaces. It's important to note that while anyone can develop a Staph infection, certain groups of people, such as athletes, healthcare workers, children, and those with weakened immune systems, are at a higher risk.

Signs of Staph Infection (And How They Differ From Acne)

It's true that in their early stages, Staph infections often resemble pimples or boils. However, there are some key differences to look out for:

• Staph infections tend to be more painful than acne and may have a burning sensation.
• The surrounding skin of a Staph infection may appear red, swollen, and warm to the touch.
• Pus or fluid-filled blisters may develop in the infected area.
• Staph infections can also cause fever and chills, while acne typically does not.
• Staph infections have no obvious border where one lesion ends and another begins, unlike acne.
• Staph infections tend to spread very quickly, while acne is more measured.

Now, even knowing these basics, there will be some cases where it's still hard for individual patients to determine on their own whether they have a Staph infection or acne. This is where professional estheticians or dermatologists come in. They are trained to identify and diagnose different types of skin conditions, including Staph infections and acne. Moreover, they can provide personalized treatment plans tailored specifically for each patient's needs (or, in other cases, recommendations on treatment centers for Staph infections).

Don't Wait to Treat Staph Infections

If you're examined by our estheticians and it turns out your issue is indeed a Staph infection and not acne, you should take immediate action and start treatment. Staph infections can spread quickly if left untreated, causing more serious health complications such as abscesses or even sepsis. Treatment options for Staph infections include:

• Antibiotics: If caught early, a simple course of antibiotics can clear up the infection in a matter of days. However, it's important to finish the entire course of medication as prescribed by your doctor to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated.
• Drainage: In cases where an abscess has formed, our estheticians may recommend draining it to remove the pus and relieve pressure. This should only be done by a trained professional to avoid further complications.
• Topical treatments: For mild Staph infections or recurring ones, topical ointments or creams may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms and prevent future outbreaks.

Preventing Future Staph Infections

Once you have successfully treated a Staph infection, it is important to take steps to prevent future occurrences. Here are some tips to help you avoid contracting Staph bacteria:

• Keep your skin clean: Regularly washing your hands and taking showers can help prevent the spread of Staph bacteria. Remember to use a mild soap and warm water when washing.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Items such as towels, razors, and clothing should not be shared with others to reduce the risk of spreading infection.
• Cover any wounds or cuts: If you have any open wounds or cuts, make sure to keep them covered with a bandage until they are fully healed.
• Maintain good hygiene: Make sure to regularly clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, and keyboards.

At Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic, our expert estheticians are able to spot the differences between acne and Staph infections and quickly point you in the right direction for treatment. Contact us today for these or any other skincare clinic needs around SLC or nearby parts of Utah!