Common Symptoms of Impetigo

Impetigo is a type of staph infection you can contract on the surface of your skin and is somewhat common in children. Most commonly caused by staph or strep bacteria, this infection is extremely contagious and can spread in several ways: from direct contact with an infected person, towels, toys, clothing, or other household items. To safeguard yourself from this infection properly, it can help to know some of the most common symptoms of impetigo.

Symptoms of Impetigo

Types of Impetigo

The two main types of impetigo are non-bullous and bullous. Non-bullous impetigo is the most common form and appears as small blisters or scabs that form yellow or honey-colored crusts. These blisters often start around your nose and face and can spread to your arms and legs. In most cases, these sores itch, though they are rarely painful. Bullous impetigo occurs when staph bacteria produce a toxin that causes a break between your top and lower levels of skin, forming a blister. Blisters from bullous impetigo can appear in several areas on your body, such as your buttocks, arms, and legs. Bullous impetigo is similar to the non-bullous variety in the sense that the skin around blisters is usually itchy but not sore. However, one difference between the two types is that bullous impetigo can last much longer than its non-bullous counterpart does.

Generic Symptoms of Impetigo

While there are different types of impetigo, some common symptoms of impetigo are often present in both types. Some of these include:

• Red sores that rupture quickly, ooze pus and fluid for a few days, and then form a yellowish-brown crust
• Itching and inflammation around the sores
• Painless, fluid-filled blisters
• Painful fluid- or pus-filled sores that can turn into deep ulcers

If you think you may be suffering from any of the symptoms of impetigo, it is essential that you seek medical attention immediately, as a doctor can diagnose your condition and determine whether you have an infection. If you do have symptoms of impetigo and are suffering from a staph infection, he or she can recommend an appropriate treatment plan for you and give you some tips that can help you avoid spreading the infection to others.