Impetigo is a common skin infection that predominantly affects young children. Characterized by red, itchy sores that can rupture, ooze, and form a yellow-brown crust, this condition is both uncomfortable and unsightly. Understanding the nature of impetigo, how it spreads, and the steps to take if your child contracts it is crucial for every parent.
At After Hours Kids in Austin, Texas, we specialize in diagnosing and treating childhood ailments like impetigo. Our dedicated team is here to provide compassionate and effective care, ensuring your child gets the treatment they need quickly.
Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection caused by the Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. It primarily affects infants and children but can occur in adults as well. The bacterial infection usually presents as red sores or blisters on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, and on the hands and feet. These sores can burst and develop honey-colored crusts.
There are three types of impetigo: non-bullous (crusted), bullous (large blisters), and ecthyma (ulcers). Non-bullous impetigo is the most common of the three.
Yes, impetigo is highly contagious. It spreads through direct contact with the sores of an infected person or by touching items that have been contaminated with the infected skin, such as towels, clothing, or toys. Close contact activities like playing in schoolyards or daycares make children particularly susceptible to contracting and spreading impetigo.
The symptoms of impetigo can vary but typically include:
The sores may start as small red spots that expand and develop into blisters, which eventually rupture. The crust that forms is a distinctive feature of impetigo.
Impetigo is caused by bacteria that enter the skin through cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or other breaks in the skin. Factors that increase the risk of developing impetigo include:
A healthcare provider can typically diagnose impetigo based on the appearance of the sores. In some cases, they may take a sample of the fluid from a blister to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection. This helps in determining the most effective treatment, especially if the infection is severe or not responding to standard treatments.
You should call a doctor if:
Early medical intervention can prevent complications and help your child recover more quickly.
Impetigo treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection and reduce the risk of spreading. Depending on the severity, this may include:
It’s important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if the sores seem to heal quickly, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated. Additionally, keeping the affected area clean and covered can help prevent the spread of impetigo to others.
Preventing an impetigo infection involves good hygiene practices and minimizing contact with infected individuals. Key prevention tips include:
If your child does contract impetigo, keep them home from school or daycare until they are no longer contagious, typically 24-48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
Impetigo, while highly contagious, is treatable and preventable with proper care and hygiene. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options, you can help protect your child from this uncomfortable infection.
If you suspect your child has impetigo or need more information, don’t hesitate to contact us at After Hours Kids in Austin, TX. Our experienced pediatric team is here to provide the care and support your family needs.
Pediatric Medical Care at a Convenient Time
Please call us to schedule an appointment during business hours.Online scheduling is only available outside of business hours.
5/5
Contact Info
The contents of this website, including any links or documents, are for educational and informational purposes only. The provision of this information is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide specific medical advice. The information on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health condition, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical provider for medical advice. If you think you have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use. Neither After Hours Kids nor their employees, nor any contributor to this web site, makes any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.
© Copyright 2024 After Hours Kids