Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that mostly affects children, but adults can also get it. It usually appears as red sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, although it can appear elsewhere on the body too. The sores quickly burst and develop a yellow-brown crust. If left untreated, impetigo can spread to other parts of the body or to other people.
If you or your child has impetigo, it’s important to seek treatment as early as possible to avoid complications and reduce the risk of spreading it to others. In this article, we’ll go through the best impetigo treatment options, including impetigo on-face treatment and the use of antibiotics.
What Causes Impetigo?
Impetigo is caused by bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. These bacteria can enter the skin through cuts, insect bites, or any other break in the skin, even if it’s small. However, impetigo can also develop on healthy skin.
It’s highly contagious and spreads easily through direct contact with the sores or through contact with items like towels or clothing that have touched the infected skin. This is why impetigo is so common among schoolchildren and within families.
How Long Does Impetigo Last with Treatment?
With proper treatment, impetigo usually clears up within 7 to 10 days. The exact length of time can depend on how severe the infection is and what type of treatment you use.
For milder cases, a doctor or pharmacist might recommend over-the-counter treatments such as topical creams. These creams are applied directly to the affected area and can help speed up the healing process. However, more severe cases of impetigo will require impetigo antibiotic treatment, either in the form of oral antibiotics or a stronger prescription cream. Antibiotics help fight the infection from within and are typically the best option if the infection is widespread or not responding to over-the-counter remedies.
If left untreated, impetigo can take much longer to heal, and the risk of spreading the infection to other areas of the body or to other people increases. For this reason, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as you notice symptoms. Not only will this help you recover faster, but it will also reduce the risk of complications.
Can You Get Impetigo Treatment From the Pharmacy?
Yes, many pharmacies in the UK, including Aroga Pharmacy, offer advice and treatment options for impetigo. If you suspect you or your child has impetigo, it’s often a good idea to visit a pharmacy first. Pharmacists can advise on over-the-counter treatments that may be suitable for mild cases, including creams that contain ingredients to help clear up the infection.
For more severe cases, your pharmacist may refer you to a GP or prescribe impetigo antibiotic treatment. Some pharmacies can provide prescription-only medicines without the need for a GP visit, especially in cases where the pharmacist has been trained to do so. This makes getting treatment for impetigo quicker and more convenient for many people.
When seeking treatment, make sure you inform the pharmacist about any other medical conditions you or your child may have, as this will help them recommend the most appropriate treatment.
How to Prevent Impetigo From Spreading
One of the main concerns with impetigo is how easily it can spread. If you or someone in your household has impetigo, take steps to prevent it from spreading:
- Avoid touching or scratching the sores.
- Keep the affected area clean and covered.
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching the sores.
- Avoid sharing towels, clothing, or bedding with others until the infection has cleared up.
- Keep children with impetigo home from school until they are no longer contagious, usually 24-48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
Consult with Aroga Pharmacy for Fast and Effective Impetigo Care
If you’re looking for expert advice on how to treat impetigo, Aroga Pharmacy at Farnham Common can help. Our qualified pharmacists can recommend the best impetigo treatment for you and your family, whether it’s topical antibiotics or oral medication.
We’re here to support you every step of the way in Slough, Taplow, and Stoke Poges. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment today for professional guidance and care.