Skin Infections

If you notice changes in your skin or experience uncomfortable symptoms, such as redness, crusting, or pain, you can rely on Swift Solutions Medical Center in Hampton, Georgia, led by Nadine Opong, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC. Nadine offers telehealth appointments to evaluate and treat skin infections. When you meet with her virtually, she can see your skin condition and learn about your symptoms. Call today or book online now to schedule a telehealth appointment.

What are skin infections?

Skin infections are conditions where microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites invade your skin, leading to inflammation and other symptoms. Common types include:

• Bacterial infections (e.g., cellulitis and impetigo)
• Viral infections (e.g., herpes simplex and warts)
• Fungal infections (e.g., ringworm and athlete's foot)
• Parasitic infections (e.g., scabies and lice)

A telehealth appointment allows Nadine to visibly evaluate your skin condition and also learn about your symptoms for an accurate diagnosis.

What are the symptoms of skin infections?

Symptoms of skin infections vary depending on the type and severity but may include:

• Redness and swelling
• Pain or itching
• Rash or blisters
• Fever
• Scaling or peeling
• Crusting or oozing

If you notice any of the signs above, call Swift Solutions Medical Center right away to schedule a telehealth appointment.

What are common types of skin infections?

Common types of skin infections encompass a range of conditions affecting your skin's integrity and health. These include:

• Cellulitis: A bacterial infection causing redness, swelling, and tenderness in the skin's deeper layers
• Eczema: Dry, itchy, and inflamed skin patches
• Rash: redness, bumps, or blisters from allergic reactions, infections, or irritants 
• Abscesses: Pus-filled pockets typically caused by bacterial infections
• Impetigo: Highly contagious bacterial infection characterized by blisters or sores on the skin's surface
• Athlete's foot: Fungal infection causing itching, redness, and scaling between the toes and on the feet

Each skin infection requires specific treatment approaches.

How are skin infections treated?

Treatment for skin infections varies based on the underlying cause and severity. Options may include topical medications, such as antifungal creams, antibacterial ointments, or antiviral medications, which you directly apply to your affected skin.

In severe cases or when infections are widespread, you may need oral medications like antibiotics, antifungals, or antiviral drugs. 

Nadine may also refer you to a specialist to perform drainage or debridement for abscesses or pus-filled lesions to aid in healing. In addition, antiparasitic treatments, like permethrin or ivermectin, can effectively eliminate parasitic infections, such as scabies or lice. 

You should also practice proper hygiene, including keeping the affected area clean and dry, to prevent the spread of infection and promote healing.

Do you have symptoms of a skin infection? If so, don’t hesitate to call Swift Solutions Medical Center or book online today to schedule a telehealth appointment with Nadine.