Everyone will experience an infection or two at some point during life. As a symptom or side effect of many mild or serious health conditions, there are countless triggers that cause an infection to appear. Whether it’s the result of a cut on the surface of the skin or a contagious virus like chicken pox, learn how to recognize and treat this potentially serious condition.

What is an infection?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, an infection is the “process by which germs enter a susceptible site in the body and multiply, resulting in disease.”

There are many types of infections; however, most can be classified according to cause:

• Bacterial infections: Tiny, single-celled creatures called bacteria cause bacterial infections. Bacteria are widespread and naturally exist in almost all types of environments, including the human body. While most bacteria that humans encounter are harmless or have a positive impact on health, some types can cause harmful infections, including strep throat, tuberculosis and urinary tract infections.

When it comes to the skin, most bacterial infections can be traced to two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus sp. Common bacterial infections that affect the skin include impetigo, erythrasma, cellulitis and folliculitis. Each of these types of infections has a different set of symptoms, so it’s important to seek a professional diagnosis.

• Viral infections: Like bacteria, viruses are tiny microbes that can cause harm to the body. However, unlike bacteria, viruses must invade the cells of a host organism (for example a bird, human or dog) in order to survive, reproduce and create an infection. Also, viruses are encased in protective capsules that make viral infections much harder to treat than bacterial infections.

Common viral infections that affect the skin include chicken pox, herpes, shingles and the measles.

In addition to bacteria and viruses, other microbes including fungi, helminthes (i.e. roundworm and tapeworm) and protozoa can also cause infections.

Symptoms of infections

Every infection brings a unique set of symptoms that depends on its cause and location in the body, but Mayo Clinic identifies seeking treatment if you experience the following:

• A bite from an animal or another human
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Persistent cough lasting one week or more
• A fever that exceeds 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
• Very rapid heartbeat
• A rash
• A fever
• Swelling
• Blurry or impaired vision
• Vomiting
• A headache

Because there are so many different types of infections, it’s important to consult a doctor to diagnose your condition.

Treatment of infections

The treatment of bacterial infections typically involves antibiotic medications that target and kill bacteria. However, because of the widespread use of antibiotics, some bacteria have evolved to resist them, making these medications ineffective. While new antibiotics can be developed, most health care professionals recommend that antibiotics only be used when necessary and under the close supervision of a doctor.

Contrary to popular belief, antibiotics are not effective in the treatment of viral infections. However, because some diseases, including diarrhea, pink eye, meningitis and pneumonia, can be caused by either bacteria or a virus, it’s important to seek a professional diagnosis and treatment. Some viral infections can be prevented with the use of vaccines or treated with antiviral medication (although these are very rare). Typically, doctors recommend letting the body fight off a viral infection on its own.

Prevention of infections

The transfer of potentially harmful bacteria and viruses can be prevented with good hygiene, including:

• Washing hands. Always wash your hands after using the bathroom, before and after handling food, before eating and after shaking hands, sneezing, touching animals, changing diapers or physical contact with the elderly or very young. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly for 10 to 15 seconds using soap and warm water.

• Product pick: While soap and water are always the best way to avoid the spread of infection, sometimes you might need an antiseptic on the go. Keep CLEAN Anti-Bacterial Hand Cream - Unscented in your purse, glove compartment or desk for instant infection protection that lasts up to four hours. And, unlike other alcohol-based sanitizers, this unscented formula moisturizes with vitamin E, avocado, jojoba and grape seed oil to leave skin silky soft and smooth.

• Avoid and treat injuries. Cuts, scrapes and burns are susceptible to germs and viruses. Always wash and treat wounds with an antibacterial ointment to prevent infection.

• Product pick: Treat wounds immediately to prevent infection. AmeriGel Wound Dressing can be applied to mild or serious cuts, burns and scrapes and features oak extract for its naturally antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Protect your mouth. The mouth is a common point of entry for unwanted bacteria and viruses. Brush your teeth at least twice per day, and always avoid contact with objects that may be contaminated including your hands.

• Product pick: Rinse with a multitasking mouth wash like Supersmile Clinically Formulated Oral Rinse. In addition to its whitening and brightening effects, this mouth wash kills the germs and bacteria that cause plaque, gingivitis and other oral care problems.

• Shower daily. Showering daily can cleanse your skin of harmful bacteria or viruses that may have been picked up during the day. Use a body wash or soap to cleanse thoroughly from head to toe.

• Product pick: Incorporate a deep-cleansing body wash into your daily shower routine. DermaQuest Skin Therapy Anti-Bacterial Enzyme Cleanser is formulated with Triclosan for its antibacterial properties, as well as gentle, proteolytic enzymes and plant extracts to calm and soothe skin from head to toe.

• Practice food safety. Food-born infections can be avoided by practicing food safety. Always use clean utensils and dishes, wash fresh fruits and vegetables, cook meat thoroughly, refrigerate leftovers and store raw meat and eggs separate from other foods.

• Product pick: When cooking in the kitchen, it’s essential to keep some hand soap close by. And, since cooking demands frequent hand washing, it’s important to have a soap that’s non-drying and with a scent that you like. Greenleaf Antibacterial Foaming Hand Soap - Pomegranate has a fruity, fresh aroma and is infused with aloe and chamomile to leave your hands feeling soft and supple.

For more detailed information about the symptoms, causes, treatments and prevention of infections, contact your health care provider. Always take even minor infections very seriously. Infections can spread, and when left untreated, infections can worsen and create serious health problems.

See also:

Skincare & Beauty FAQ Handbook – Part 12: Natural Skincare

How to Protect Your Nails During a Manicure

Skincare & Beauty FAQ Handbook – Part 15: Skincare Conditions

Understanding and Preventing MRSA