Staphylococci are bacteria that are normally found on human skin and many surfaces. When they remain on the skin, problems usually do not arise; however, if they enter the body through a cut, a scratch or an insect bite, they can become dangerous. They can infect a wound which, if left untreated, can be fatal. If you are concerned that you have a staph infection, you need to see your doctor to be safe.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Getting Cure
Step 1. Look for signs of infection
Staphylococcus is a bacterium that can cause redness, swelling, and trigger the formation of pus. The infection can also be very similar to a spider bite, and the skin can become hot to the touch. These symptoms usually appear in the area near a cut or sore.
Step 2. Seek medical attention as soon as possible
The infection can quickly develop and become a more serious problem. Therefore, if you are concerned that this is the case for you, call your doctor right away. He will likely invite you to visit his office as soon as possible and will give you instructions for immediate treatment.
Step 3. Clean the area with antibacterial soap
Gently wash the affected area with warm, soapy water. You can use a towel if you want to be even more delicate, but remember to wash it before using it again for other purposes. If you have a blister, don't try to squeeze or break it, as this will only spread the infection further. If the lesion needs to be drained (because there is fluid) you need to see a doctor.
- Make sure you wash your hands after cleaning the infected area.
- Use a clean cloth to dry the wound and don't use it again without washing it first.
Step 4. Discuss with your doctor whether or not to take a sample
The doctor usually takes a tissue sample for analysis. The aim is to identify the bacterial strain that has infected you, so that you can find the most effective treatment for your case.
Step 5. Be prepared for the doctor to drain the wound
If you have a bad infection that has caused a sore or blister, the liquid will need to be extracted. It shouldn't be very painful, as the doctor would likely numb the area a bit before proceeding.
To drain a wound, a scalpel is commonly used to incise the area and extract the fluid. If the lesion is particularly large, the doctor will need to wrap it in gauze that must be removed at a later time
Step 6. Learn about antibiotics
In the event of a staph infection, it is almost always necessary to undergo a course of antibiotics. One of the reasons staph are so dangerous is because some strains are becoming resistant to some antibiotics.
Cephalosporins, nafcillin or sulfonamides are usually prescribed. Sometimes, however, it may be useful to take vancomycin, for which there is lower bacterial resistance. The downside to this drug is that it must be administered intravenously
Step 7. Know when surgery is needed
In some cases, a staph infection develops around a medical device or a prosthesis implanted inside the body. In this case it is necessary to intervene surgically to remove the device.
Step 8. Pay attention to this complication in the case of other injuries
This type of infection can be a problem in several situations, for example if you are undergoing surgery. You may also develop a serious condition, called septic arthritis, which occurs when staph colonizes a joint, which can happen when infection enters the bloodstream.
If you have septic arthritis you may have difficulty using the affected joint. you may also experience pain, as well as swelling and redness. If you have these symptoms you should go to the doctor as soon as possible
Method 2 of 2: Preventing Staph Infections
Step 1. Wash your hands often
This bacterium is present on the skin, as well as under the nails. By washing your hands thoroughly, you are less likely to introduce bacteria into your body through scratches, scrapes, or scabs.
When you wash them, you should scrub them for 15-30 seconds with warm soapy water; if you can use a disposable towel at the end of the operation, so much the better. Also close the tap with a towel so as not to touch the germs on the surface with clean hands
Step 2. Clean and cover the wound
When you have a cut or scrape it is important to protect it with a bandage after cleaning it. Another fundamental aspect is to apply an antibacterial ointment, in order to avoid in all ways that staphylococci can penetrate through the lesion.
Step 3. Wear gloves if you need to medicate another person
If you are caring for another individual's wound, it is best to wear clean gloves. If you can't, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards and still try not to touch the wound with your bare hands. To avoid direct contact, you can find alternative solutions, such as putting antibiotic ointment on the bandage and then applying it directly to the wound.
Step 4. Shower after exercise
You could get staph infection in the gym, hot tub and sauna, so be sure to shower after exercising to "wash away" any risks. Make sure the shower cubicle is clean and don't share bathroom accessories, such as razors, towels, and soap, with others.
Step 5. Change your tampon often
Toxic shock syndrome is a form of staph infection that often develops due to continuous use of the tampon for more than 4-8 hours. Try to change it at least during this time and use the lightest one possible, compatibly with your menstrual flow. If the internal tampon is too absorbent, the risk of staph infection increases.
If you are concerned about this, you should use other methods of managing your period, such as using only tampons
Step 6. Do your laundry at a high temperature
When washing clothing, including towels and sheets, set up a wash with very hot water. This kills the bacteria and avoids the risk of becoming infected through the laundry.
