Impetigo
Impetigo spreads easily as a skin infection, commonly affecting children but also impacting people of all ages. Bacterial in origin, impetigo causes rashes, blisters, and yellowish crusts on the skin, most often appearing around the mouth, nose, and other exposed areas. While it can be unpleasant, impetigo is generally mild and responds well to treatment. At Seaton Pharmacy, we offer a range of treatments, including impetigo creams, to help manage and clear this infection quickly and effectively. This guide will provide an overview of impetigo, its symptoms, causes, and how to treat it efficiently, including details about the NHS Pharmacy First service for impetigo management.
What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a superficial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. It occurs when bacteria enter the skin through a small cut, insect bite, or other minor injuries, infecting the top layers of the skin. Impetigo is particularly common among young children due to their frequent skin contact with others and less mature immune systems, but adults can also contract it, especially if they have weakened immunity or a pre-existing skin condition, such as eczema.
The condition can be classified into two types:
Non-Bullous Impetigo: The most common form, featuring red sores that quickly rupture and ooze, eventually forming a yellow-brown crust. Non-bullous impetigo often appears around the nose and mouth.
Bullous Impetigo: This less common form leads to larger fluid-filled blisters that remain unbroken for longer. These blisters may appear on the torso and limbs, often affecting infants and younger children.
Symptoms of Impetigo
Recognising impetigo early can prevent it from spreading and ensure timely treatment. Common symptoms include:
Red sores: Initially, small red sores appear, which may be itchy or uncomfortable.
Blisters and pustules: These sores quickly turn into blisters that may ooze or burst, forming a yellow or honey-coloured crust.
Itching and discomfort: While the sores themselves may not be painful, they can be irritating, causing discomfort and a strong urge to scratch.
Spreading lesions: If not treated promptly, the infection can spread to other parts of the body or to other people through direct contact.
Impetigo is easily spread through close contact with an infected individual or by touching contaminated surfaces. It’s important to avoid sharing towels, bedding, or clothing with someone who has impetigo, as these items can carry the bacteria.
How is Impetigo Treated?
Impetigo is highly treatable, and most cases resolve within a few days to a week with appropriate medication. The primary treatment options include:
Impetigo Cream (Topical Antibiotics)
For mild to moderate cases of impetigo, antibiotic creams are typically the first line of treatment. Impetigo cream containing mupirocin or fusidic acid is commonly prescribed and work by eliminating the bacteria causing the infection. At Seaton Pharmacy, we stock impetigo creams that are effective and safe to use, helping to clear the infection within a few days.
The impetigo cream is applied directly to the sores after gently cleansing the affected area with warm water. It’s important to apply the cream as instructed, typically two to three times daily, to ensure full effectiveness. Avoid touching or scratching the affected areas after application to prevent spreading the bacteria.
Oral Antibiotics
In more severe cases, or when impetigo covers a larger area, oral antibiotics may be prescribed. These medications work from within the body to target the bacteria and prevent further spread of the infection. Your pharmacist or healthcare provider will determine if oral antibiotics are necessary based on the extent and severity of the infection.
Hygiene Measures
Proper hygiene is crucial to treating and preventing impetigo. It’s essential to wash hands frequently, avoid touching the sores, and refrain from sharing personal items such as towels or clothing. Keeping nails short and clean can help reduce the risk of further infection, especially in children who may scratch the affected areas.
Non-Prescription Antiseptics
Use mild antiseptic creams or washes as part of a cleaning routine to help keep the affected area free of bacteria. However, these treatments generally work less effectively than targeted antibiotic creams and should not replace prescribed treatments.
Preventing Impetigo
Preventative measures are essential to reduce the risk of impetigo, particularly in young children who are more susceptible to contracting and spreading the infection. Consider these tips to lower the risk:
Regular Handwashing: Encourage children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially after playing outside or engaging in activities where they may come into contact with bacteria.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Educate children on the importance of not sharing items like towels, toys, or bedding, particularly if they or others have visible sores or rashes.
Proper Wound Care: Cover any cuts, scratches, or insect bites with a plaster until they have healed to prevent bacteria from entering the skin.
Avoid Close Contact with Infected Individuals: Try to limit contact with someone who has active impetigo, as the infection spreads through skin contact.
NHS Pharmacy First for Impetigo Treatment
At Seaton Pharmacy, we are proud to be part of the NHS Pharmacy First service, which provides convenient access to treatment and advice for minor health conditions like impetigo. This service enables you to consult with a pharmacist about impetigo symptoms, and they can advise on the most appropriate course of action.
Through Pharmacy First, you can receive guidance on over-the-counter treatments, including impetigo cream and hygiene measures. For mild cases, these creams are often sufficient, and our pharmacists can provide support on how to use them effectively. If the infection is more extensive or does not respond to initial treatment, we may advise a GP consultation for further assessment or prescription antibiotics. This service allows you to avoid the need for an immediate GP appointment for mild cases and receive expert help directly from our pharmacy team.
Why Choose Seaton Pharmacy for Impetigo Treatment?
Seaton Pharmacy offers both expertise and accessibility, making it easy for you to get advice and impetigo treatment without delay. We understand that impetigo can be distressing, especially for young children, so our pharmacists are here to provide support, from recommending effective impetigo creams to explaining the best hygiene practices to prevent reinfection.
Through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, you have access to timely assistance without needing a GP appointment, allowing you to address the issue as soon as symptoms appear. With years of experience in managing skin conditions, our team can provide guidance on the best impetigo creams and additional treatment options if needed.
Whether you’re dealing with a mild case or need more comprehensive advice, Seaton Pharmacy is here to help you or your child recover swiftly. Visit us to discuss the most effective impetigo treatments and receive the support needed to manage this condition effectively.
For anyone struggling with impetigo, getting the right impetigo cream or treatment and taking quick action is crucial. Let Seaton Pharmacy be your trusted source for reliable, professional treatment and care. We’re dedicated to ensuring you have everything you need to stop the spread of impetigo and find relief.
Book Your Pharmacy First Appointment Today
Don’t let Impetigo disrupt your well-being. Book your Pharmacy First appointment at Seaton Pharmacy, and experience swift relief tailored to your needs. Take the first step towards healthier skin.
The age range for this condition is 1 year and over.