Your skin acts as a vital barrier that protects your body from harmful microorganisms. When the skin is broken or damaged, these microorganisms can enter and lead to infection. While many skin infections are mild and treatable, more severe infections can occur if they spread to deeper layers of the skin or across larger areas of the body.
There are several types of skin infections. Each infection will have their own set of symptoms and treatment options, depending on the cause. Prompt treatment is essential for managing skin infections effectively, preventing them from worsening or spreading.
Skin infections can have a variety of causes including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The type of microorganism determines the specific infection:
Certain factors increase the risk of developing a skin infection, including:
Symptoms vary based on the type of infection but may include:
To diagnose a skin infection, our pharmacist will assess your symptoms and take your medical history. The treatment recommended or provided will depend on the type and severity of the infection. While some minor infections can heal on their own, others may require further treatment or referral to an alternative healthcare professional.
Treatment options include topical creams or ointments applied directly to the skin. For more serious infections, oral antibiotics may be required for complete treatment.
This is a FREE NHS service available at our local pharmacy. If you suspect you have a skin infection, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with one of our prescribing pharmacists.
