Impetigo can be present on any part of the body, but appears more often around
the face. The blisters of impetigo are usually very itchy. Scratching the blisters
breaks them open and causes the bacteria to multiply to other parts of the body.
Impetigo infection varies between each individual. Some may develop clear fluid
filled blisters that cluster-others may develop blisters in a line. It is very
common for a person who comes in contact with a contaminated surface to have
their palms and fingers afflicted. The size of the infection also varies. Some
people may only develop tiny blisters-while others may present large patches
or boils.
Doctors can generally make a diagnosis simply by visual examination. Some doctor’s
choose to do a wound culture. Fevers do not present with impetigo but lymph
nodes may be swollen near the area.
Children are often given antibiotic ointments for the impetigo. If the infection
is more severe, oral antibiotics may be prescribed. Children are asked to stay
home from day care and school for at least twenty four hours after they start
antibiotic treatments.
All wounds should be gently washed with soap and water and covered with a light
airy dressing. This will absorb any drainage and help keep tiny fingers from
scratching the sores.
Complications from impetigo are rare. If a complication does occur, it’s
probably due to an infection that developed from excessive scratching at the
area.
Special care needs to be taken when a child develops impetigo. The infected
child’s clothing, wash cloths and towels need to be washed separately-preferably
at the hottest setting the clothing will tolerate. Hands need to be washed frequently
and thoroughly. It might be a good idea to use hand sanitizer and a disinfecting
household spray-but do not use hand sanitizer on your child if they have blisters
or sores on their fingers and hands.
Towels and other item should not be shared and children should be encouraged
not to scratch.
The bacteria that cause impetigo can easily enter broken skin. You should monitor
your child’s cuts and scrapes and keep them clean. Impetigo can occur
with healthy skin also.
If you suspect your child has impetigo, call their pediatrician. Many impetigo
infections clear up on their own, but if your child is in a daycare setting
or school, you’ll want to seek treatment to help prevent the spread to
other children.
Many people believe that impetigo spreads from poor hygiene. This is not true.
You and your child should not feel ashamed if impetigo develops. While frequent
bathing and hand washing is imperative to good health, developing impetigo is
by no means an indicator of uncleanliness.
© Rebecca Pillar 2007 |
