The skin provides a force field against bacterial infections. Every day the skin is exposed to many types of bacteria that are normally unsuccessful in harming the body. However, sometimes the immune system can fail or the skin can break down and become susceptible to infection. Most bacterial skin infections occur as a result of a cut, puncture, or burn on the skin. This creates a gateway for bacteria to enter the body and cause infection.
There are a number of bacteria that infect the skin. The two main kinds are Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. The most common types of skin infections caused by these bacteria are:
• Cellulitis
• Erysipelas
• Folliculitis
• Furuncles
• Impetigo
Besides living on the skin, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria can also exist dormant in parts of the body including the throat and nose. Once the bacteria get transferred through the fluids of these orifices they can be easily spread by contact to other parts of the body or to another person, causing infection. When an infected person is sick the risk of passing on the infection is at its greatest.
Bacterial skin infections can impact a tiny area on the skin or affect large portions of the body. Some infections can be easily treated and others life threatening. If you think you may have a bacterial skin infection it is important to consult with a skin care professional immediately to receive treatment and stop the infection from spreading and becoming worse, or even fatal.
