There are many types of "good" bacteria that are naturally present in the body. These bacteria are involved in various functions such as digestion. However there are some harmful bacteria that can cause illness. These bacteria also tend to multiply very fast. Illnesses caused by bacteria are known as bacterial infections. Different types of bacteria may be responsible for different types of infections. The infections may also occur internally or externally. Some common types of bacteria that lead to various infections include staphylococcus, streptococcus, E. coli, salmonella and listeriosis.
The most common bacterial infections include strep throat, urinary tract infections and typhoid. Bacteria may enter the body when they are ingested or inhaled. Bacteria can also enter the system through the skin. Even minor cuts or bruises offer a point of entry to these bacteria. Bacterial infections on skin may vary from mild to severe. Bacterial staph infections are commonly occurring conditions. Individuals who already have skin problems such as eczema or burns are more prone to developing staph skin infections. These infections may spread from touching contaminated objects. The most common mode of transmission of these infections is skin to skin contact. Contact with an infected area of skin can cause the bacteria to spread from one part of the body to another. Staph infections easily spread among those who live in close proximity such as dormitories. Sharing of personal items such as towels or clothing can carry the bacteria from one person to another.
Some common bacterial skin infections include impetigo which is characterized by blisters or crusted lesions around the nose and mouth, folliculitis which causes pus-filled blisters in the hair follicles, furuncles which affect the hair follicles and the tissues that surround them and erysipelas which affects the upper layers of the skin. The bacterial infection cellulitis is a serious condition which begins with a rash that spreads through the body and leads to swelling, fever and chills. The infection can also enter the bloodstream. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for treating bacterial infections. However these medications may reduce the amount of good bacteria in the body and as a result the amount of fungi increases. This could lead to fungal infections. Fungal skin infections treatment is effective only when immunity is strengthened. Natural treatments are also considered to be beneficial in treating bacterial skin infections. Herbal remedies such as calendula, white birch and knee holly may be used in the form of infusions or topical applications.
answered by G R