Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, commonly called MRSA, is an extreme infection caused by staph bacteria. It's a form of staph infection that emerged several decades ago in hospitals. It is resistant to many of the broad spectrum antibiotics in use. It was the first bacteria to outwit high powered antibiotic treatments, and if it is not successfully treated then it can result in death. This is why it is so important to recognize MRSA symptoms early on to avoid the dangerous results of these infections.
Key Points
- The first MRSA symptom you will likely notice are small, red bumps. These bumps resemble boils or pimples.
- As the infection continues, these bumps will grow larger.
- If the bumps abscess, you need to head to the emergency room. A surgeon will need to drain the abscesses.
MRSA Symptoms
MRSA symptoms usually begin with small red bumps. These red bumps will resemble a boil, or even a pimple. Some have even mistaken these MRSA bumps for spider bites. As the infection takes root, the red bumps will begin to build into larger and larger bumps. As they grow, they go deeper and begin to abscess. They can feel very warm to the touch. If they stay close to the skin, then it doesn't get more serious.
If the MRSA infection gets deeper and deeper below the skin level, then serious complications can set in. You could begin to notice MRSA symptoms showing up in your bones, your blood stream, your joints, and even your lungs as the infection begins to attack your body from the inside.
If you are suffering from what appears to be MRSA symptoms then you need to run, not walk, to your doctor to get started on an immediate treatment. The sooner you begin treatment, the easier it is to fully recover MRSA.
MRSA Treatment & Prognosis
If the infection has produced abscesses, a surgeon will need to drain them. You may be placed on antibiotics to combat the infection. There are some strains of MRSA that still respond to antibiotics, despite the disease's infamous reputation as antibiotic-resistant. If the infection has spread deeper, more complicated surgery may be needed.
Generally, if treated early enough MRSA has a good prognosis. It is important to know, however, that 10 to 30 percent of MRSA cases end in death. This is why it's critical to get to the doctor as soon as possible if you suspect you have MRSA. If you believe your case of MRSA has already spread deeper into your body, head to the emergency room.
To reduce your risk of contracting MRSA, keep any open wounds clean. Athletes are especially vulnerable to MRSA; if you are an athlete, shower after practice and after a sporting event. Make sure your children shower regularly, whether they are athletes or not. Do not share towels or razors with anyone outside of your household. If you need or want to sit on a locker room bench, put a towel down first if your bare skin will come in contact with the bench.
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.