MRSA Staph Infection
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is a type of infection that is known for being particularly resistant to treatments. Being diagnosed with MRSA can be frightening, as some cases can be fatal. According to the Centers for Disease Control, staph is a common germ that ordinarily lives within the nose. However, if staph enters through a cut or wound, then the bacteria can grow and multiply, causing serious issues.
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Types
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There are two types of MRSA infections. The most common type, HA-MRSA (or health-care-associated MRSA), occurs in settings such as hospitals or nursing homes. HA-MRSA is more likely to affect older individuals or those who have a compromised immune system, such as HIV/AIDS patients. According to the Mayo Clinic, a new form--CA-MRSA, or community associated MRSA--occurs amongst relatively healthy people, and can result in serious forms of pneumonia.
Causes
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More than one-third of the world's population has staph bacteria growing within their nose or on their skin. You can be colonized with the bacteria, but not even experience symptoms. Only when this bacteria enters a wound or cut will the bacteria begin to wreak havoc.
MRSA causes the most damage for a variety of reasons. For example, if you've taken antibiotics unnecessarily, such as for colds or for the flu, your body will begin to develop a resistance to antibiotics. By the time you get hit with MRSA, your body has no way of fighting the staph because of resistance development due to antibiotics.
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Germ Mutation
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Another way for a MRSA infection to occur is through germ mutation. In a hypothetical scenario, you need an antibiotic to treat an infection, and you take the antibiotic accordingly. Even though you're taking an antibiotic, not every germ may be eradicated. As a result, some of these germs can survive and mutate, becoming resistant to other forms of antibiotics. According to the Mayo Clinic, as these germs become more resistant to drugs and mutate faster than antibiotics can be created, many germs will eventually be resistant to any treatment.
Signs and Symptoms
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Once you have a MRSA infection, a skin infection will develop as a pimple-like sore. The sore will then become red, inflamed, and severely painful. Pus or liquid drainage will ooze from the sore. A serious infection from MRSA can result in pneumonia, infections of your bloodstream or surgical wounds. According to the Mayo Clinic, bacteria from MRSA can also enter your heart valves, lungs, or damage your bones and joints.
Prevention/Solution
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The prevention of spreading MRSA is essential to avoid complications. When visiting loved ones in a hospital environment, always wash your hands before touching your loved one. You can also use a 60-percent-alcohol-based hand sanitizer. If you have a wound, keep it covered to prevent an infection from occurring. Don't touch other people's wounds or touch their bandages.
Never share personal objects, such as razors, towels or clothing. If you participate in sports, shower after games and practice. If you have a wound that is infected, sit out on games. You can risk infecting your teammates. If you ever need to be put on an antibiotic, use it as directed and finish the dosage as prescribed. If your infection doesn't clear up when you're on antibiotics, consult your physician.
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