Skin Infections

If you develop symptoms of a skin infection, like redness, itching, or pain, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. At ViteleDoc, a telehealth practice serving patients in California and Oregon, virtual urgent care provider Dustin Jacot, PA-C, provides diagnosis and treatment of skin infections from the convenience of your device. No waiting in line or sitting for hours in the lobby. Save the hassle and book same-day appointments for diagnosis and treatment to speed up your body's healing process. Book online or call Dustin today to receive treatment for your skin infection.

What is a skin infection?

Skin infections are very common, and if left untreated, often become serious. The infected area of skin may be painful, warm to the touch, swollen and inflamed. 

Skin infections often affect the lower legs, but can occur on the face, arms and other areas. A break in the skin allows bacteria to enter it, which causes the infection. Skin infections may spread to the lymph nodes and bloodstream and may even become life-threatening if left untreated. Skin infections aren't usually spread from person to person and many people mistake a skin infection for a spider bite. 

What are the symptoms of a skin infection?

Symptoms of a skin infection usually occur on one side of the body and may include:

• Swelling
• Tenderness of the skin
• Pain
• Warmth
• Fever
• Chills
• Spots
• Blisters
• Skin dimpling

As the infection worsens, the area of the skin that is irritated tends to expand.

When should I seek treatment for a skin infection?

Request a virtual consultation at ViteleDoc if you experience any of the symptoms above. The sooner skin infections are treated, the better they respond to treatment with oral antibiotics. In just a few minutes, Dustin's virtual visits can offer a quick diagnosis and treatment— whether you’re in the comfort of your home or traveling.

How is a skin infection diagnosed?

During your virtual consultation, Dustin first reviews your medical records. He will ask about symptoms such as when the pain or swelling of the skin started, any fluid coming from the wound and any fever or chills. 

Next, he asks you to point your smartphone or web camera at the painful area of skin. He might also ask you to upload pictures of your skin to the online patient portal. Dustin uses the video feed of your device to examine your skin for any swelling, redness and fluid coming from the painful area. 

After determining the type of infection you have, Dustin makes treatment recommendations.

How is a skin infection treated?

Dustin treats skin infections depending on the type of infection you have and how severe the symptoms are. Treatment often includes a prescription oral antibiotic and the infection should begin improving within two days of starting the antibiotic. The antibiotic course is usually 5-10 days and you'll need to take the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better. 

In severe cases, you may need to be hospitalized. It's important to seek treatment if: 

• Your symptoms don't respond to oral antibiotics
• Your symptoms (pain, swelling) are extensive
• You have a high fever

Dustin's goal is to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading deeper into the skin or bloodstream.

How can I reduce my risk of a skin infection?

To help prevent skin infections, take these precautions: 

• Wash any skin wounds wound every day with soap and water 
• Cover any skin wounds with a bandage
• Regularly moisturize your skin 
• Trim your fingernails and toenails carefully 

Click the online booking feature or call ViteleDoc today to receive professional and convenient treatment for a skin infection.