Impetigo
Start Your Online Consultation Today for Fast Impetigo Relief. Our Pharmacists Will Review Your Symptoms and Provide the Right Treatment Quickly and Safely.
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This service is provided by the NHS at no cost.
You only pay if you are not exempt from prescription charges.
FAQ
Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that primarily affects children, although it can occur at any age. It is highly contagious and typically manifests as red sores that rupture and form honey-coloured crusts.
These sores can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found around the nose and mouth. Impetigo is usually caused by either Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
While it is usually mild and can be treated effectively with antibiotics, it’s essential to practice good hygiene and seek medical attention if necessary to prevent the spread of infection and ensure prompt recovery. With proper care and treatment, most cases of impetigo resolve without complications.
Impetigo is diagnosed if the patient follow typical progression of impetigo clinical features:
☐ The initial lesion is a very thin-walled vesicle on an erythematous base, which ruptures easily and is seldom observed
☐ The exudate dries to form golden yellow or yellow-brown crusts, which gradually thickens
☐ Lesions can develop anywhere on the body but are most common on exposed skin on the face (the peri-oral and peri-nasal areas), limbs and flexures (such as the axillae)
☐ Satellite lesions may develop following spreading of infection
☐ Usually asymptomatic but may be mildly itchy
☐ Refer to NHS.UK website for images of impetigo
If you meet this criteria our pharmacists can arrange for a video call and a treatment plan.
Here is the inclusion criteria
☐ Children 1 year of age plus
☐ Adults
Here is the exclusion criteria
☐ Under 1 year of age
☐ Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy in individuals under 16 years Of age
☐ Breastfeeding with impetigo lesion(s) on the breast(s)
☐ Immunosuppressed individuals
Impetigo usually lasts 1-2 weeks if left untreated, but you may the risk of spreading the disease and further complications. Treated lesions typically become non-contagious within 48 hours, but blisters may take bit longer to heal.
While it is usually mild and can be treated effectively with antibiotics, proper care and treatment, most cases of impetigo resolve without complications.
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How common is impetigo
Impetigo is a prevalent condition, particularly among children aged 2 to 6 years. It is estimated that millions of cases occur worldwide each year.
Symptoms of impetigo
The symptoms of impetigo often start with small, red spots that quickly develop into fluid-filled blisters. These blisters may burst and leave behind raw, red areas that ooze fluid and eventually form a yellowish-brown crust. The affected areas may be itchy or tender to the touch. In some cases, swollen lymph nodes may accompany the rash.
Causes of impetigo
Impetigo is primarily caused by bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. These bacteria can enter the body through breaks in the skin, such as cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or existing skin conditions like eczema. Poor hygiene, crowded living conditions, and warm, humid climates can also contribute to the spread of impetigo.
Treatment for impetigo
Treatment for impetigo typically involves topical or oral antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. Topical antibiotics, such as mupirocin or fusidic acid, are often sufficient for mild cases of impetigo. For more severe or widespread infections, oral antibiotics like flucloxacillin or erythromycin may be prescribed. It’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as directed by a healthcare professional to ensure the infection is completely eradicated.
Preventing impetigo
Preventing the spread of impetigo is crucial to minimize the risk of infection to others. Practicing good hygiene, such as regularly washing hands with soap and water, keeping fingernails short and clean, and avoiding sharing personal items like towels and razors, can help reduce the spread of impetigo. It’s also essential to avoid scratching or picking at the sores to prevent further spread of the infection.
When to seek medical attention
While impetigo is usually a mild and self-limiting condition, there are instances where medical attention may be necessary. Seek medical advice if the rash is extensive, does not improve with treatment, or if there are signs of a more severe infection, such as fever, increased pain, or spreading redness. Additionally, consult a healthcare professional if there are signs of impetigo in newborns or infants, as they may require specialised care.
Conclusion
Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that can cause discomfort and inconvenience, particularly in children. While it is usually mild and can be treated effectively with antibiotics, it’s essential to practice good hygiene and seek medical attention if necessary to prevent the spread of infection and ensure prompt recovery. With proper care and treatment, most cases of impetigo resolve without complications.
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