What are the common symptoms of staph infections. How do staph bacteria spread and cause illness. What treatment options are available for staph infections, including antibiotic-resistant strains.

Understanding Staphylococcus Bacteria and Staph Infections

Staphylococcus bacteria, commonly known as staph, are a group of microorganisms frequently found on human skin and in nasal passages. While many people carry these bacteria without issue, staph can sometimes cause infections ranging from minor skin problems to severe, life-threatening conditions.

Staph infections occur when these bacteria enter the body through cuts, abrasions, or other openings in the skin. The severity of the infection depends on various factors, including the strain of bacteria, the site of infection, and the individual’s overall health.

How Staph Bacteria Spread

Staph bacteria can spread through:

• Direct skin-to-skin contact
• Contact with contaminated objects or surfaces
• Inhalation of respiratory droplets containing the bacteria
• Consumption of contaminated food

The hardy nature of staph bacteria allows them to survive on various surfaces for extended periods, increasing the risk of transmission.

Common Types of Staph Infections and Their Symptoms

Staph infections can manifest in various forms, each with distinct symptoms and characteristics. Understanding these different types can help in early identification and prompt treatment.

Skin Infections

Skin infections are among the most common types of staph infections. They include:

1. Boils: Painful, pus-filled bumps that develop in hair follicles or oil glands
2. Impetigo: A contagious rash characterized by large blisters that ooze and develop a honey-colored crust
3. Cellulitis: An infection of the deeper skin layers causing redness, swelling, and possible oozing sores
4. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome: A condition affecting mostly children, causing fever, rash, and skin peeling

Food Poisoning

Staph bacteria are a leading cause of food poisoning. Symptoms typically appear rapidly after consuming contaminated food and may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Low blood pressure

Bacteremia

Bacteremia occurs when staph bacteria enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to infections in various organs. Symptoms may include fever and low blood pressure.

Toxic Shock Syndrome

This life-threatening condition results from toxins produced by certain staph strains. Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sunburn-like rash on palms and soles
• Confusion
• Muscle aches
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain

Septic Arthritis

Staph infections can cause septic arthritis, particularly affecting joints such as knees, shoulders, hips, and fingers or toes. Symptoms include:

• Joint swelling
• Severe pain in the affected joint
• Fever

Diagnosing Staph Infections

Accurate diagnosis of staph infections is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare providers typically employ a combination of clinical examination and laboratory tests to identify the presence of staph bacteria and determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Clinical Examination

During a clinical examination, the healthcare provider will:

• Assess the affected area for visible signs of infection
• Inquire about symptoms and their duration
• Review the patient’s medical history
• Perform a physical examination to check for fever, swelling, or other related symptoms

Laboratory Tests

To confirm the presence of staph bacteria and identify the specific strain, healthcare providers may order:

1. Skin culture: A sample from the infected area is collected and tested for bacterial growth
2. Blood tests: These can detect signs of infection and identify the presence of staph bacteria in the bloodstream
3. Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI may be used to assess the extent of infection in deeper tissues or organs

Treatment Options for Staph Infections

The treatment of staph infections varies depending on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the strain of bacteria involved. In many cases, a combination of approaches may be necessary to effectively combat the infection.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are the primary treatment for most staph infections. The choice of antibiotic depends on the strain of bacteria and its susceptibility to different medications. Common antibiotics used include:

• Penicillin-like antibiotics (e.g., methicillin, oxacillin)
• Cephalosporins
• Vancomycin (for resistant strains)
• Daptomycin
• Linezolid

Are all staph infections treated with antibiotics? While many staph infections require antibiotic treatment, some minor skin infections may be managed with topical treatments or drainage alone. However, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment recommendations.

Incision and Drainage

For skin infections such as boils or abscesses, a healthcare provider may perform incision and drainage. This procedure involves:

1. Cleaning the affected area
2. Making a small incision to allow the pus to drain
3. Packing the wound with sterile gauze to promote healing

Wound Care

Proper wound care is essential for healing and preventing the spread of infection. This may include:

• Regular cleaning of the affected area
• Application of topical antibiotics or antiseptics
• Covering the wound with sterile dressings
• Frequent changing of dressings

Antibiotic-Resistant Staph Infections: MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a strain of staph bacteria that has developed resistance to many common antibiotics. MRSA infections pose significant challenges in treatment and can lead to more severe health complications.

Characteristics of MRSA

MRSA infections differ from typical staph infections in several ways:

• Resistance to multiple antibiotics
• Potential for rapid spread in healthcare settings
• Increased risk of severe infections
• Higher mortality rates in severe cases

Treatment Approaches for MRSA

Treating MRSA infections often requires specialized antibiotics and careful management. Treatment options may include:

1. Vancomycin: Often considered the drug of choice for severe MRSA infections
2. Daptomycin: An alternative for patients who cannot tolerate vancomycin
3. Linezolid: Effective against MRSA and can be administered orally
4. Combination therapy: Using multiple antibiotics to enhance effectiveness
5. Surgical intervention: In cases of severe abscesses or deep-tissue infections

Can MRSA infections be prevented? While complete prevention is challenging, reducing the risk of MRSA infections is possible through:

• Proper hand hygiene
• Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces
• Avoiding sharing personal items
• Promptly cleaning and covering cuts or wounds
• Following infection control measures in healthcare settings

Preventing Staph Infections: Key Strategies

Preventing staph infections involves a combination of personal hygiene practices, environmental measures, and awareness of risk factors. By implementing these strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of acquiring or spreading staph bacteria.

Personal Hygiene

Maintaining good personal hygiene is crucial in preventing staph infections. Key practices include:

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are unavailable
• Keeping cuts, scrapes, and wounds clean and covered
• Avoiding touching or popping pimples or other skin lesions
• Not sharing personal items such as towels, razors, or clothing

Environmental Measures

Creating a clean environment can help reduce the risk of staph infections:

1. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
2. Wash bedding, towels, and clothing in hot water and dry them on high heat
3. Use protective barriers (e.g., towels) on shared equipment in gyms or locker rooms
4. Maintain clean and hygienic conditions in communal areas

Risk Factor Awareness

Understanding and mitigating risk factors can help prevent staph infections:

• Be cautious in healthcare settings, especially if you have open wounds or invasive devices
• Practice good food safety to prevent staph-related food poisoning
• Take precautions if you participate in contact sports or use shared equipment
• Follow proper care instructions for medical devices or prosthetics

How effective are these prevention strategies? While no method is 100% effective, consistently practicing these prevention strategies can significantly reduce the risk of staph infections. However, it’s important to remember that some individuals may be more susceptible due to factors such as weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Potential Staph Infections

Recognizing the signs of a potential staph infection and seeking timely medical attention is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. While minor skin infections may sometimes resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation.

Signs and Symptoms Requiring Medical Attention

Seek medical care if you or a family member experience:

• Skin infections that are red, swollen, warm to the touch, or painful
• Pus-filled blisters or boils that don’t improve after a few days
• Fever accompanying skin symptoms
• Rapid spread of redness or swelling around a wound
• Symptoms of systemic illness such as high fever, chills, or body aches
• Signs of toxic shock syndrome, including sudden high fever, vomiting, and rash
• Persistent or worsening symptoms despite home treatment

Special Considerations

Certain situations may require more urgent medical attention:

1. Infections in children, elderly individuals, or those with weakened immune systems
2. Infections near the eyes, nose, or mouth
3. Recurrent staph infections or infections that appear to be spreading within a household
4. Infections that don’t respond to prescribed antibiotics
5. Signs of deeper tissue involvement or systemic spread

Should all skin infections be evaluated by a healthcare provider? While not all skin infections require immediate medical attention, it’s generally advisable to consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure about the nature or severity of an infection. Early evaluation can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for staph infections, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their health and seek timely medical care when necessary. Remember that while staph bacteria are common, proper hygiene and preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Staph infections – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Staph infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria. These types of germs are commonly found on the skin or in the nose of many healthy people. Most of the time, these bacteria cause no problems or cause relatively minor skin infections.

But staph infections can turn deadly if the bacteria invade deeper into your body, entering your bloodstream, joints, bones, lungs or heart. A growing number of otherwise healthy people are developing life-threatening staph infections.

Treatment usually involves antibiotics and cleaning of the infected area. However, some staph infections no longer respond, or become resistant, to common antibiotics. To treat antibiotic-resistant staph infections, health care providers may need to use antibiotics that can cause more side effects.

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Symptoms

Staph infections can range from minor skin problems to life-threatening illness. For example, endocarditis, a serious infection of the inner lining of your heart (endocardium) can be caused by staph bacteria. Signs and symptoms of staph infections vary widely, depending on the location and severity of the infection.

Staph infection

infections start out as small red bumps that can quickly turn into deep, painful abscesses.

Skin infections

Skin infections caused by staph bacteria include:

• Boils. The most common type of staph infection is the boil. This is a pocket of pus that develops in a hair follicle or oil gland. The skin over the infected area usually becomes red and swollen.

  If a boil breaks open, it will probably drain pus. Boils occur most often under the arms or around the groin or buttocks.

• Impetigo. This contagious, often painful rash can be caused by staph bacteria. Impetigo usually has large blisters that may ooze fluid and develop a honey-colored crust.
• Cellulitis. Cellulitis is an infection of the deeper layers of skin. It causes redness and swelling on the surface of your skin. Sores or areas of oozing discharge may develop, too.
• Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Toxins produced by the staph bacteria may cause staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Affecting mostly babies and children, this condition includes a fever, a rash and sometimes blisters. When the blisters break, the top layer of skin comes off. This leaves a red, raw surface that looks like a burn.

Food poisoning

Staph bacteria are one of the most common causes of food poisoning. The bacteria multiply in food and produce toxins that make you sick. Symptoms come on quickly, usually within hours of eating a contaminated food. Symptoms usually disappear quickly, too, often lasting just half a day.

A staph infection in food usually doesn’t cause a fever. Signs and symptoms you can expect with this type of staph infection include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Low blood pressure

Bacteremia

Also known as a bloodstream infection, bacteremia occurs when staph bacteria enter the bloodstream. A fever and low blood pressure are signs of bacteremia. The bacteria can travel to locations deep within your body to cause infections that affect:

• Internal organs, such as your brain (meningitis), heart (endocarditis) or lungs (pneumonia)
• Bones and muscles
• Surgically implanted devices, such as artificial joints or cardiac pacemakers

Toxic shock syndrome

This life-threatening condition results from toxins produced by some strains of staph bacteria. The condition has been linked to certain types of tampons, skin wounds and surgery. It usually develops suddenly with:

• A high fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• A rash on your palms and soles that looks like a sunburn
• Confusion
• Muscle aches
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain

Septic arthritis

Septic arthritis is often caused by a staph infection. The bacteria often target the knees, shoulders, hips, and fingers or toes. Artificial joints may also be at risk of infection. Signs and symptoms may include:

• Joint swelling
• Severe pain in the affected joint
• Fever

When to see a doctor

Go to your health care provider if you or your child has:

• An area of red, irritated or painful skin
• Pus-filled blisters
• Fever

You may also want to talk to your provider if:

• Skin infections are being passed from one family member to another
• Two or more family members have skin infections at the same time

Causes

Many people carry staph bacteria on their skin or in their nose and never develop staph infections. However, if you develop a staph infection, there’s a good chance that it’s from bacteria you’ve been carrying around for some time.

Staph bacteria can also be spread from person to person. Because staph bacteria are so hardy, they can live on objects such as pillowcases or towels long enough to transfer to the next person who touches them.

Staph bacteria can make you sick by causing an infection. You can also become sick from the toxins produced by the bacteria.

Staph bacteria can survive:

• Drying
• Extremes of temperature
• Stomach acid

Risk factors

Many factors — including the health of your immune system or the types of sports you play — can increase your risk of developing staph infections.

Underlying health conditions

Certain disorders or the medications used to treat them can make you more likely to get staph infections. People who may be more likely to get a staph infection include those with:

• Diabetes who use insulin
• HIV/AIDS
• Kidney failure requiring dialysis
• Weakened immune systems — either from a disease or medications that suppress the immune system
• A transplant
• Cancer, especially those who are being treated with chemotherapy or radiation
• Skin damage from conditions such as eczema, insect bites or minor trauma that opens the skin
• Lung (respiratory) illness, such as cystic fibrosis or emphysema

Current or recent hospitalization

Despite strong attempts to get rid of them, staph bacteria stay present in hospitals, where they can infect people who are most at risk of infection. This can include people with:

• Weakened immune systems
• Burns
• Surgical wounds

Sometimes people admitted to the hospital may be screened to see if they’re carrying staph bacteria. Screening is done using a nasal swab. Treatment to get rid of the bacteria may be given to help prevent infection and decrease the spread to others.

Invasive and implanted devices

Staph bacteria can get into the body by traveling along medical tubing. These devices make a connection between the outside and the inside of your body. Examples are:

• Urinary catheters
• Tubing placed in a vein (intravenous catheters)

Also, staph bacteria are attracted to implanted devices, where they grow on the surface and cause infection. These include surgically implanted devices such as:

• Artificial joints
• Cardiac pacemakers

Contact sports

Staph bacteria can spread easily through cuts, scrapes and skin-to-skin contact. Staph infections may also spread in the locker room through shared razors, towels, uniforms or equipment.

Unsanitary food preparation

Food handlers who don’t properly wash their hands can transfer staph bacteria from their skin to the food they’re preparing. The bacteria multiply in the food and produce toxins that make you sick. Cooking can kill the bacteria. But the toxins are still in the food. Foods that are contaminated with staph bacteria do not look or taste differently.

Complications

If staph bacteria invade your bloodstream, you may develop a type of infection that affects your entire body. Called sepsis, this infection can lead to septic shock. This is a life-threatening episode when your blood pressure drops to an extremely low level.

Staph infections can also turn deadly if the bacteria invade deep into your body, entering your bloodstream, joints, bones, lungs or heart.

Prevention

These commonsense precautions can help lower your risk of getting staph infections:

• Wash your hands. Thorough hand washing is your best defense against germs. Wash your hands with soap and water briskly for at least 20 seconds. Then dry them with a disposable towel and use the towel to turn off the faucet. If your hands aren’t visibly dirty or you aren’t able to wash your hands, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

  Wash your hands with soap and water regularly, such as before, during and after making food; after handling raw meat or poultry; before eating; after using the bathroom; and after touching an animal or animal waste.

• Keep wounds covered. Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with sterile, dry bandages until they heal. The pus from infected sores often contains staph bacteria. Keeping wounds covered will help keep the bacteria from spreading.
• Reduce tampon risks. Toxic shock syndrome is caused by staph bacteria. Tampons left in for long periods can grow staph bacteria. You can reduce your chances of getting toxic shock syndrome by changing your tampon frequently — at least every 4 to 8 hours. Use the lowest absorbency tampon you can. Try to alternate tampons with sanitary napkins whenever possible.
• Keep personal items personal. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, sheets, razors, clothing and athletic equipment. Staph infections can spread on objects, as well as from person to person.
• Wash clothing and bedding. Staph bacteria can spread on clothing, towels and bedding. To remove bacteria, wash and dry items at the warmest temperature recommended by the items’ labels. It’s OK if you can’t use hot water, as using detergent in your wash is enough to make items clean and safe for use. You can use bleach on any bleach-safe materials.
• Take food safety precautions. Wash your hands before handling food. If food will be out for a while, make sure that hot foods stay hot — above 140 F (60 C). Make sure that cold foods stay at 40 F (4.4 C) or below. Refrigerate leftovers as soon as possible. Wash cutting boards and counters with soap and water.

Staph infections – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Staph infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria. These types of germs are commonly found on the skin or in the nose of many healthy people. Most of the time, these bacteria cause no problems or cause relatively minor skin infections.

But staph infections can turn deadly if the bacteria invade deeper into your body, entering your bloodstream, joints, bones, lungs or heart. A growing number of otherwise healthy people are developing life-threatening staph infections.

Treatment usually involves antibiotics and cleaning of the infected area. However, some staph infections no longer respond, or become resistant, to common antibiotics. To treat antibiotic-resistant staph infections, health care providers may need to use antibiotics that can cause more side effects.

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Symptoms

Staph infections can range from minor skin problems to life-threatening illness. For example, endocarditis, a serious infection of the inner lining of your heart (endocardium) can be caused by staph bacteria. Signs and symptoms of staph infections vary widely, depending on the location and severity of the infection.

Staph infection

infections start out as small red bumps that can quickly turn into deep, painful abscesses.

Skin infections

Skin infections caused by staph bacteria include:

• Boils. The most common type of staph infection is the boil. This is a pocket of pus that develops in a hair follicle or oil gland. The skin over the infected area usually becomes red and swollen.

  If a boil breaks open, it will probably drain pus. Boils occur most often under the arms or around the groin or buttocks.

• Impetigo. This contagious, often painful rash can be caused by staph bacteria. Impetigo usually has large blisters that may ooze fluid and develop a honey-colored crust.
• Cellulitis. Cellulitis is an infection of the deeper layers of skin. It causes redness and swelling on the surface of your skin. Sores or areas of oozing discharge may develop, too.
• Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Toxins produced by the staph bacteria may cause staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Affecting mostly babies and children, this condition includes a fever, a rash and sometimes blisters. When the blisters break, the top layer of skin comes off. This leaves a red, raw surface that looks like a burn.

Food poisoning

Staph bacteria are one of the most common causes of food poisoning. The bacteria multiply in food and produce toxins that make you sick. Symptoms come on quickly, usually within hours of eating a contaminated food. Symptoms usually disappear quickly, too, often lasting just half a day.

A staph infection in food usually doesn’t cause a fever. Signs and symptoms you can expect with this type of staph infection include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Low blood pressure

Bacteremia

Also known as a bloodstream infection, bacteremia occurs when staph bacteria enter the bloodstream. A fever and low blood pressure are signs of bacteremia. The bacteria can travel to locations deep within your body to cause infections that affect:

• Internal organs, such as your brain (meningitis), heart (endocarditis) or lungs (pneumonia)
• Bones and muscles
• Surgically implanted devices, such as artificial joints or cardiac pacemakers

Toxic shock syndrome

This life-threatening condition results from toxins produced by some strains of staph bacteria. The condition has been linked to certain types of tampons, skin wounds and surgery. It usually develops suddenly with:

• A high fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• A rash on your palms and soles that looks like a sunburn
• Confusion
• Muscle aches
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain

Septic arthritis

Septic arthritis is often caused by a staph infection. The bacteria often target the knees, shoulders, hips, and fingers or toes. Artificial joints may also be at risk of infection. Signs and symptoms may include:

• Joint swelling
• Severe pain in the affected joint
• Fever

When to see a doctor

Go to your health care provider if you or your child has:

• An area of red, irritated or painful skin
• Pus-filled blisters
• Fever

You may also want to talk to your provider if:

• Skin infections are being passed from one family member to another
• Two or more family members have skin infections at the same time

Causes

Many people carry staph bacteria on their skin or in their nose and never develop staph infections. However, if you develop a staph infection, there’s a good chance that it’s from bacteria you’ve been carrying around for some time.

Staph bacteria can also be spread from person to person. Because staph bacteria are so hardy, they can live on objects such as pillowcases or towels long enough to transfer to the next person who touches them.

Staph bacteria can make you sick by causing an infection. You can also become sick from the toxins produced by the bacteria.

Staph bacteria can survive:

• Drying
• Extremes of temperature
• Stomach acid

Risk factors

Many factors — including the health of your immune system or the types of sports you play — can increase your risk of developing staph infections.

Underlying health conditions

Certain disorders or the medications used to treat them can make you more likely to get staph infections. People who may be more likely to get a staph infection include those with:

• Diabetes who use insulin
• HIV/AIDS
• Kidney failure requiring dialysis
• Weakened immune systems — either from a disease or medications that suppress the immune system
• A transplant
• Cancer, especially those who are being treated with chemotherapy or radiation
• Skin damage from conditions such as eczema, insect bites or minor trauma that opens the skin
• Lung (respiratory) illness, such as cystic fibrosis or emphysema

Current or recent hospitalization

Despite strong attempts to get rid of them, staph bacteria stay present in hospitals, where they can infect people who are most at risk of infection. This can include people with:

• Weakened immune systems
• Burns
• Surgical wounds

Sometimes people admitted to the hospital may be screened to see if they’re carrying staph bacteria. Screening is done using a nasal swab. Treatment to get rid of the bacteria may be given to help prevent infection and decrease the spread to others.

Invasive and implanted devices

Staph bacteria can get into the body by traveling along medical tubing. These devices make a connection between the outside and the inside of your body. Examples are:

• Urinary catheters
• Tubing placed in a vein (intravenous catheters)

Also, staph bacteria are attracted to implanted devices, where they grow on the surface and cause infection. These include surgically implanted devices such as:

• Artificial joints
• Cardiac pacemakers

Contact sports

Staph bacteria can spread easily through cuts, scrapes and skin-to-skin contact. Staph infections may also spread in the locker room through shared razors, towels, uniforms or equipment.

Unsanitary food preparation

Food handlers who don’t properly wash their hands can transfer staph bacteria from their skin to the food they’re preparing. The bacteria multiply in the food and produce toxins that make you sick. Cooking can kill the bacteria. But the toxins are still in the food. Foods that are contaminated with staph bacteria do not look or taste differently.

Complications

If staph bacteria invade your bloodstream, you may develop a type of infection that affects your entire body. Called sepsis, this infection can lead to septic shock. This is a life-threatening episode when your blood pressure drops to an extremely low level.

Staph infections can also turn deadly if the bacteria invade deep into your body, entering your bloodstream, joints, bones, lungs or heart.

Prevention

These commonsense precautions can help lower your risk of getting staph infections:

• Wash your hands. Thorough hand washing is your best defense against germs. Wash your hands with soap and water briskly for at least 20 seconds. Then dry them with a disposable towel and use the towel to turn off the faucet. If your hands aren’t visibly dirty or you aren’t able to wash your hands, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

  Wash your hands with soap and water regularly, such as before, during and after making food; after handling raw meat or poultry; before eating; after using the bathroom; and after touching an animal or animal waste.

• Keep wounds covered. Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with sterile, dry bandages until they heal. The pus from infected sores often contains staph bacteria. Keeping wounds covered will help keep the bacteria from spreading.
• Reduce tampon risks. Toxic shock syndrome is caused by staph bacteria. Tampons left in for long periods can grow staph bacteria. You can reduce your chances of getting toxic shock syndrome by changing your tampon frequently — at least every 4 to 8 hours. Use the lowest absorbency tampon you can. Try to alternate tampons with sanitary napkins whenever possible.
• Keep personal items personal. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, sheets, razors, clothing and athletic equipment. Staph infections can spread on objects, as well as from person to person.
• Wash clothing and bedding. Staph bacteria can spread on clothing, towels and bedding. To remove bacteria, wash and dry items at the warmest temperature recommended by the items’ labels. It’s OK if you can’t use hot water, as using detergent in your wash is enough to make items clean and safe for use. You can use bleach on any bleach-safe materials.
• Take food safety precautions. Wash your hands before handling food. If food will be out for a while, make sure that hot foods stay hot — above 140 F (60 C). Make sure that cold foods stay at 40 F (4.4 C) or below. Refrigerate leftovers as soon as possible. Wash cutting boards and counters with soap and water.

Staphylococcal infection consultation treatment ID-CLINIC St. Petersburg

Staphylococcal infection consultation treatment ID-CLINIC St. Petersburg

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Staphylococcal infections are a group of diseases caused by Gram+ Staphylococcus bacteria. Most often, the cause of the disease is Staphylococcus aureus, epidermal and saprophytic subspecies are diagnosed much less often. All these microorganisms are considered opportunistic pathogens, so they do not cause clinical manifestations in all people, but only in patients who have one or more predisposing factors. Diseases caused by staphylococcus are treated infectiologists ID-clinic.

How infection occurs

Staphylococci are stable in the external environment, insensitive to heat, alcohol and standard antiseptics. This explains the high risk of infection and expands the range of transmission routes. Infection occurs by contact, alimentary, airborne droplets. Outbreaks of infection are possible in organized groups, medical institutions, catering establishments, since asymptomatic carriers are also a source of infection.

Risk factors

Patients with these diseases and conditions are more likely to develop symptomatic staphylococcal infection:
● chronic bronchopulmonary diseases
● reduced immunity due to diabetes mellitus, HIV-positive status, congenital immunodeficiencies
● long-term treatment with antibiotics, cytostatics, immunosuppressive drugs
● chronic dermatoses
● oncological diseases

Symptoms of staphylococcal infection

The disease occurs with a variety of clinical symptoms, which depend on the lesion. When infected with staphylococcus, pustular lesions of the skin and soft tissues (boils, abscesses, phlegmon), ENT organs (tonsillitis, otitis media, sinusitis), genitourinary system (cystitis, pyelonephritis), bronchopulmonary system (pneumonia, pleurisy), gastrointestinal tract (enterocolitis) are possible. It is also possible to develop arthritis, osteomyelitis.

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Generalized infection

With poor immune protection and irrational treatment at an early stage of the disease, staphylococci can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. In this case, the patient develops sepsis and secondary ulcers form in different tissues. With staphylococcal infection, it is possible to develop an infectious-toxic shock, which is caused by exotoxins of the pathogen.

Doctor’s consultation

Initial consultation is carried out by an infectious disease specialist, dermatologist, internist, urologist or other specialists, taking into account the prevailing symptoms. For the convenience of patients, ID-Clinic doctors provide online consultation services, go to their homes for a complete examination and sampling of biomaterial for diagnosis. In the presence of acute manifestations of infection, it is recommended to refrain from coming to the clinic on your own so as not to endanger other patients.

Diagnosis of staphylococcal infection

● bacteriological culture of pus, sputum, blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid and other biomaterials
● coagulase test and other specific diagnostic methods for pathogenic staphylococci
● antibiotic susceptibility test
● PCR for differentiation of antibiotic-resistant strains of staphylococci
● Soft tissue ultrasound, abdominal ultrasound, chest x-ray and paranasal sinuses

Treatment of staphylococcal infection

The basis of therapy is the administration of one or more antibiotics to which the isolated strain of staphylococci is sensitive. The duration and treatment regimen depend on the severity of the disease, the location of the focus of inflammation, and the general condition of the patient. Pathogenetic and symptomatic therapy is selected taking into account the clinical picture. Surgical opening and drainage of abscesses is also shown, which increases the effectiveness of therapy.

Vaccination effectiveness

For the treatment of the disease, staphylococcal antiphagin, which is administered daily for 9 days, and staphylococcal toxoid, requiring 5-7 injections with an interval of 2 days between injections, can be used. Unlike other vaccines, immunization is given when a staphylococcal infection has already been diagnosed to protect the patient from a severe course of the disease. The decision on the need for vaccination is made by the attending physician.

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• Krotov Kirill Yurievich

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I chose this doctor because there was a free appointment on the same day, which was important. The doctor explained all the issues that interested me and put a good treatment. The reception began without delay.

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Dmitry

I have a good impression of Dr. Savchenko. He speaks professional language, and, as I understand it, Botkin’s practice also helps him become the best specialist in his field. The only question is the age of the doctor – very young, the rest is on the level. Perhaps I will contact him again. At the moment, all the doctor’s appointments have already been completed, it remains only to wait for the results of the tests. In principle, if there is any need for the next, the first thing we will have in mind is this clinic. The clinic seemed good to us, but a bit expensive.

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Visited an endocrinologist Darya Mikhailovna Surzhenko. Very caring, intelligent, and caring doctor! There were problems related to the activity of thyroid hormones. Quite a bit of time has passed, and the indicators, well-being and mood have already improved. I will definitely recommend to my friends, because I know for myself how difficult it is to find a good specialist in this field. Thanks to the administration of “H-Clinic” for the professionalism and selection of doctors with such tremendous experience! Excellent clinic.

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Anna Borisovna was very polite, informatively told everything. I chose the doctor based on reviews. At the appointment, the doctor explained everything in an accessible way, prescribed an additional examination and gave recommendations. The specialist spent enough time at the reception and answered all questions.

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Super professional! Leaves recommendations on the merits, friendly, attentive to detail.

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I came to this clinic for an ultrasound and a consultation. I was advised by Alexei Vasilievich Baranov, he has vast experience and deals specifically with thyroid problems. I’m glad I came across this specialist. Very polite and attentive doctor, and did not look superficially, but in detail and attentively. Advised on the necessary issues and made recommendations. I have been suffering from thyroid gland for several years, but this is the first time I have received such a detailed and thorough consultation.

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Very competent doctor. Communicated with me great. I will contact him again. For a long time I could not figure out what was wrong with my health, and Kirill Alexandrovich helped me get a complete picture of my condition. Everything explained in detail and clearly. Everything suited me. I would recommend this doctor to my friends if needed.

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I have been going to Victoria Valerievna for a long time. Cure old nail fungus. She is a true professional in her field, gives detailed recommendations for the treatment of nails, and, based on tests, selects the most effective medicines for treatment. Lately I’ve been going to the doctor for a preventive pedicure and I don’t want to lose a good specialist.

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I found this clinic close to home. Had an ultrasound of the kidneys. I have a good impression. Everything was convenient and on time. As a result of the examination, I found out that everything is in order with me. The clinic is cozy, clean and warm. Would recommend her to others.

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staphylococcus aureus, salmonellosis – symptoms, treatment

Intestinal infections are caused by the spread of harmful bacteria. Most often, they develop in children, but can often cause ailments of any family member. In this article, we will talk about what types of intestinal infections are, how they appear in the human body and how to treat them correctly and effectively.

Despite the similar symptoms and method of infection, each species has its own distinctive features and poses a different danger to humans.

Types of intestinal infections

The pathogen appears and parasitizes in the gastrointestinal tract. The mucous membrane of the stomach can become inflamed, digestion processes are disturbed, and the general well-being of a person worsens.

Viral infections

When viral infection affects the walls of the stomach, intestines, respiratory organs, in rare cases, other organs may be affected. The infection can be transmitted in several ways: fecal-oral, airborne, contact-household.

The infection can be cured in as little as one week, but a person can continue to be a carrier for another 3-4 weeks. It is important to adhere to a strict diet during treatment, drink plenty of clean water and use antiviral drugs prescribed by a doctor after diagnosing the body.

Bacterial infections

Such a disease is considered more dangerous, since there is a high probability of complications. You can get infected by the fecal-oral and contact-household route. The infection affects the gastrointestinal tract, urinary canals.

Bacteria, spreading in the gastrointestinal tract, release toxic substances. With a large number of such substances entering the body, toxic shock can occur.

The patient will need complex treatment. It is necessary not only to get rid of harmful microorganisms, but also to cleanse the body of toxic substances, as well as eliminate symptoms. In such cases, antibiotics are prescribed.

Protozoan infections

They are considered less common, but very dangerous. They are transmitted not only by the fecal-oral and contact-household route, but also during sexual intercourse. Despite the active spread in the stomach and intestines, the disease may not make itself felt for a long time, which will further complicate the treatment process.

Symptoms of intestinal infection in adults

The first symptoms make themselves felt quite quickly – it takes from 6 to 48 hours after the pathogen enters the body. An intestinal infection can also begin as a cold: with a sore throat, low temperature, up to 37.5.

Characteristic signs appear:

• fever
• vomiting, diarrhea
• pain in the lower abdomen
• discomfort, sometimes a sharp increase in body temperature (up to 38-39 ° C)
• Weakness, pallor, shortness of breath, may be heart failure
• the most dangerous thing in this case is fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea

If the disease is mild, then these symptoms may not be observed, and with an acute intestinal infection, the symptoms may become pronounced.

Staphylococcus

The disease is caused by opportunistic microbes that are dangerous to human health. Living in the body constantly, they are under the control of immunity. But when the protection is weakened, they can provoke an inflammatory process.

Staphylococcus aureus is a non-motile Gram-positive spherical microorganism that forms numerous colonies. It can develop and parasitize in the body without the participation of oxygen in a closed environment. There are more than twenty strains of bacteria. Some of them are quite harmless, while others cause powerful pathological reactions in the human body.

Pathology most often appears on the skin, mucous membranes, connective tissue, subcutaneous tissue, heart muscle. Affecting them, microbes produce toxic substances, provoke inflammation, in severe cases leading to sepsis, irreversible changes in structures.

The most common variety is Staphylococcus aureus. The name was given because of the characteristic yellow pigment on the surface. Penetrating into the body, it synthesizes the enzyme coagulase, can cause purulent inflammation of almost any internal organs.

Symptoms of staphylococcal infection

The two main signs that can be observed in the body of an infected person are intoxication and inflammation. Painful raised nodules filled with pus may appear. The defeat of the sinuses of the nose by staphylococcus is manifested by a banal runny nose with viscous yellowish or green discharge. The following symptoms may also appear:

• nasal congestion
• feeling of heaviness, fullness on the affected side
• shortness of breath
• thick purulent nasal discharge
• increase in body temperature above +37°C

Often, the infection spreads to the middle ear, causing otitis: sharp shooting pains, hearing loss. With the defeat of the mucous eyes, suppuration of the conjunctiva develops, the sclera turn red and swell. Staphylococcus often occurs in children under 12 years of age and manifests itself in the same way as in adults.

To quickly suppress the activity of pathogens, combinations of various groups of drugs are used. Relatively new and effective: macrolides and fluoroquinolones. Drugs in these categories break down and destroy the protein coats of bacteria, giving them no time to develop resistance. The course of treatment for staphylococcus should be carried out according to the clear instructions of the doctor and should not be interrupted.

Salmonellosis

Another type of bacterial infection that affects humans and animals is transmitted by the fecal-oral route, usually affecting the stomach and small intestine. The nature of the course of the disease differs in each case, from asymptomatic lesions to severe forms with toxic and dehydration shock.

The cause of the disease is Salmonella bacteria. They keep well and live long in the environment. They are not afraid of the cold, so freezing food does not prevent infection. But when boiled, these bacteria die instantly.

Salmonella enters the gastrointestinal tract with food, water or through contaminated hands, freely passes the acid barrier of the stomach and colonizes in the small intestine. In the fight against immune cells, they produce a toxin that is dangerous for human life. With the blood flow, they enter other internal organs: the liver, spleen, lungs, bones.

Symptoms of salmonellosis:

The incubation period lasts from several hours to 2 days. The body temperature rises sharply, there is a pronounced pain syndrome, heaviness in the head, weakness. An upset stool with salmonellosis is one of the main symptoms. The stool becomes watery, frothy and extremely offensive. Defecation is accompanied by the urge to vomit. The mucous membrane of the mouth and tongue are covered with a white coating, become excessively dry.

Patients suffering from a severe form of salmonellosis or complications are subject to hospitalization. Adults and children who experience a mild infection are treated at home. Treatment of salmonellosis begins with a basic gastric and intestinal lavage procedure.

Then the restoration of the balance of electrolytes in the patient’s body and the correction of the water-salt balance. This is done by ingesting a saline solution by mouth. In severe dehydration, intravenous infusion therapy is performed, which includes polyionic solutions.

Treatment of intestinal infections

If signs of infection appear, you should consult a doctor. Many diseases have similar symptoms. Therefore, in order to conduct competent therapy, it is necessary to undergo a complete diagnosis. Only laboratory diagnostic methods will show the correct result.

What to do if there is a sick person in the family?

• The sick person should stay in bed. It is advisable to lie in a separate room where children should not be allowed. If you feel sick, bring a bowl.
• If the infected person is sick, cover him with a blanket. Preferably one that is easy to wash afterwards.
• Give the sick person a separate container for drinking.

Medicines are prescribed for treatment. Activated charcoal (1 tablet per 10 kg of weight) and other sorbents, rehydron (prescribed for large fluid loss, especially for underweight people, with dehydration), antipyretics. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water, you can mineral without gases.

You should remove all dairy products from the diet and follow a diet for several days. Porridge on the water (preferably rice), crackers from white or gray bread, exclude vegetables and fruits that cause fermentation – grapes, cabbage, black bread, legumes.

With an intestinal infection, the patient is prescribed a warm drink. It can be:

• fruit drinks (from fresh or frozen berries)
• unsweetened tea, can be herbal
• juice (preferably diluted)
• jelly is especially good – because of its astringent properties

Prevention of intestinal infection in adults and children

• Separate knives and cutting boards should be provided in the kitchen for raw meat and fish.