Treatments for Impetigo

Impetigo is a skin infection caused by one of two types of bacteria: streptococcus or staphylococcus. With flesh wounds, there is the possibility of these bacteria entering the skin, which may cause impetigo. Impetigo characteristically looks like a blister with crusty fluid around it.

Hygiene

Sometimes impetigo is so mild the doctor may tell the patient simply to keep the area clean. Many times if the area is kept clean, the infection will heal naturally.

Topical Antibiotic

Your doctor may give you a prescription antibiotic. The antibiotic will most likely be a cream or an ointment that you place directly onto the infection.

Oral Antibiotic

An antibiotic in pill form might be given when the impetigo is more severe or spreading. Finishing all of the pills prescribed will make it more likely that impetigo will not return.

Vinegar

At home, mix 1 tbl. of vinegar with one pint of water. Soak the infected area in the mixture for 30 minutes. The scabs are easier to remove after this treatment.

Bandage

It may be beneficial to treat yourself at home with over-the-counter antibiotics. If this is the treatment taken, apply the medicine, then cover it with a bandage that will not stick to the area. This can help impetigo from spreading.

References

• Kids Health
• Mayo Clinic