Ever noticed a reddish, crusty sore around your mouth and nose? If yes, then it could definitely be an indication of impetigo, a skin condition that is highly contagious. More commonly diagnosed in children, impetigo accounts for approximately 10% of all skin complaints in the paediatric population, according to StatPearls Publishing. But what is this condition, what causes it, and can it be prevented? We will answer all your questions.
What Causes Impetigo?
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Priyanka Kuri, Consultant Dermatologist, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, describes impetigo as a highly common skin condition caused by bacteria that appears in the form of red blisters or sores on the face.
The most common bacteria that cause impetigo are Staphylococcus aureus and Group A streptococcus.
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"These bacteria can enter the body through insect wounds, cuts, and bites, among others. Once inside the body, the bacteria begin to grow on the skin, causing inflammation in the epidermis. Contact with someone with impetigo can spread the bacteria. It can also spread to objects that have been in contact with the infected person," the doctor explains, adding that for about a week or two, these sores or spots will burst open and develop golden crusts.
According to her, in most cases, it may not be serious, but if left untreated, it can spread rapidly.
Research suggests the condition mostly affects children, particularly those aged 2–5 years old.
However, it is important to note that adults can also develop the skin condition, with men at a greater risk.
Common Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms of impetigo include:
- Discoloured sores that initially appear around the nose and lips
- Sores quickly develop into blisters that may ooze and burst.
- A yellowish crust.
- The clusters of blisters may spread to cover more skin areas.
- Itchiness
- Occasional pain
- Discoloured marks
Treatment And Prevention
According to Dr Kuri, impetigo itself usually takes weeks to heal.
She says, “Antibiotics are used to speed up her recovery. Antibiotics also prevent the spread of bacteria. In mild cases, antibiotics, such as mupirocin antibiotics, are applied to the painful area. Application two or three times a day for fifteen days is recommended. Warm water should be applied to the wound before applying the antibiotic ointment.”
As far as prevention is concerned, one of the most important habits that can prevent impetigo is maintaining good hygiene, the doctor emphasises, adding that basic practices such as washing hands before and after eating, wearing clean, dry clothing, and not sharing personal belongings with others are effective ways to reduce the risk of developing impetigo. Additionally, if you have an injury, close contact with impetigo-infected people should be avoided, she warns.