Because of their diversity, the best treatment for skin infections depends on their particular cause. Bacterial infections require antibiotics to treat, while fungal infections require antifungal medication to eliminate. Viral infections may require antiviral agents or other supportive intervention. Some more serious infections may require drainage in order to treat them in an Urgent Care clinic.
Early interventions improve the chances of avoiding significant complications from skin infections. Skin infections can spread quickly, and providing the wrong treatment will delay healing and worsen symptoms. Las Vegas is an area where the heat, moisture from perspiration, and minor skin traumas are all contributing factors for these skin infections. Therefore it is very important to know when to seek medical assistance for skin infections to avoid unnecessary hospitalizations. Let’s take a closer look!
What Causes a Skin Infection?
Skin infections develop because germs that cause the infection have entered through some type of broken skin. There are many things that can cause broken skin such as:
- cuts or scrapes
- insect bites
- acne or other irritated skin
- surgical wounds
- dry and cracked skin
- weak immune system
Also, hot weather causes you to sweat, which creates moist skin that allows bacteria and fungi to multiply much more quickly than in other situations.
What Are the Main Types of Skin Infections?
Infection of the skin can occur in four ways:
1. Bacterial Infections
Examples:
- Cellulitis
- Impetigo
- MRSA
- Boils and abscesses
Typically, you will see red or swollen areas of low-grade bleeding or fluid and pus.
2. Fungal Infections
Examples:
- Ringworm
- Athlete’s foot
- Jock itch
- Yeast infections
Typically you will see itching; scaling and/or a rash.
3. Viral Infections
Examples:
- Herpes
- Shingles
- Warts
- Molluscum
Typically, you will see blisters or bumps.
4. Parasitic Infections
Examples:
- Scabies
- Lice
Typically, you will see extreme itching and/or irritation.
What Is the Best Treatment for a Bacterial Skin Infection?
Antibiotics are used for treatment of all skin infections.
There are several options available for treatment:
- Topical Creams – for mild infections
- Oral antibiotics – for infections spreading
- IV Antibiotics – for severe cases
- Drainage – for abscesses
Call Urgent Care Las Vegas if redness is spreading quickly or developing a fever.
What Is the Best Treatment for a Fungal Skin Infection?
Antifungal medication should be used to treat fungus.
- Possible antifungal treatments include:
- OTC antifungal creams
- Prescription strength antifungal creams
- Oral antifungal pills for difficult to treat infections
You should keep the area clean and dry during the use of antifungals.
What Is the Best Treatment for Viral Skin Infections?
The type of treatment for viral infections (e.g. Herpes & Shingles) will depend on what kind of virus it is.
- Typically, antiviral medications are used to treat the virus (e.g. Herpes, Shingles)
- Warts may require topical freezing treatment.
- Over-the-counter pain relief may be prescribed (for symptom levels) as well.
Some mild viral infections clear on their own.
Can You Treat a Skin Infection at Home?
If you are very mildly infected, you can manage yourself by following these steps:
- Keep the area clean with soap and water
- Keep the area dry
- Apply your prescribed cream (as directed)
- Do not scratch
- Do not squeeze/drain any infection on your own.
This will only increase your risk of spreading the infection to another area.
When Should You Visit an Urgent Care Clinic?
You should see a doctor if any of the following signs occur:
- Fever
- Severe Pain
- Pus
- Rapid Swelling
- Red Stripes
- Infection around the Eyes
- No Improvement After 48 Hours
Urgent Care Clinics have fast access to infection diagnosis and treatment, without having the problem of waiting in an Emergency Room.
How Is a Skin Infection Diagnosed?
When a doctor examines you for an infection, he or she will likely do the following:
- Examine Your Skin
- Take Cultures For Testing
- Send you For Any Necessary Blood Work
- Drain Abscesses Repeatedly
A proper diagnosis will allow for proper medications to help you fight an infection.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Infections left untreated can lead to:
- Sepsis
- Tissue Damage
- Blood Infections
- Hospitalization
Getting adequate treatment early on can help diminish some or all of these risks.
What Are the Complications of Untreated Skin Infections?
Las Vegas Residents use Urgent Care Las Vegas because:
- Same Day Appointments
- On-Site Evaluations
- Fast Prescriptions
- Immediate Drainage Of Abscesses
- Lower Cost Than an Emergency Room
By Seeing A Doctor At Urgent Care Las Vegas, You Can Get Prompt And Professional Treatment.
Why Choose Sahara West Urgent Care Las Vegas for Skin Infection Treatment?
Las Vegas residents are choosing Sahara West Urgent Care for various reasons:
- Appointments can be scheduled the same day.
- Patients can receive an assessment on-site.
- Prescriptions can be obtained quickly.
- Abscess drainage may be available.
- Costs are typically lower than at an Emergency Room.
- Patients will receive prompt medical attention in a professional environment.
Final Thoughts
When deciding how to treat a skin infection the determining factors are the cause and severity of infection or the seriousness of the situation:
- Bacterial infections – antibiotics
- Fungal infections – antifungals
- Viral infections – antivirals
If you feel your circumstances have worsened, don’t wait; see your nearest Urgent Care Clinic and be treated quickly and effectively. Timely treatment enhances your well-being and helps you recover faster. To schedule your appointment with the highest standard of care, visit Sahara West Urgent Care on our website, where you can also explore more informative blogs .
FAQs
How do I know if my skin infection is serious?
If you have fever, expanding redness, significant pain or pus, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible, as these symptoms could indicate a serious condition.
Can a skin infection heal without antibiotics?
Some minor fungal or viral infections can improve without treatment but most will require an antibiotic to clear up the infection.
Is cellulitis dangerous?
Yes, due to their rapid ability to spread, and may require urgent medical care.
Should I go to urgent care for a skin infection?
Yes, particularly if the condition you have worsens or does not improve after two days.
Are skin infections contagious?
Some infections, such as impetigo, MRSA, ringworm and Herpes Simplex Virus, can also be transmitted to other people.
How long does it take for a skin infection to heal?
Mild infections improve in a few days with treatment. Severe cases may take weeks.
