Know the basics
What is MRSA?
MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is a “staph” germ that does not get better with the type of antibiotics that usually cure staph infections. MRSA can penetrate deep into the body causing infectious diseases such as bones, joints, bloodstream, heart valves and lungs infection. If not treated in time, this disease can cause danger to life. MRSA infection mainly spread through your skin and often begins as painful skin boils. There are 2 types of MRSA infection: Hospital Acquired – HA-MRSA and Community Acquired – CA-MRSA.
How common is MRSA?
MRSA can happen to anyone, especially those living in overcrowded places. You can minimize the chance of having hernias by reducing your risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for further information.
Know the symptoms
What are the symptoms of MRSA?
Common symptom is small red bumps on skin that look like pimples or boils. Besides, there are other symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Cough or shortness of breath
- Fever and chills
- General ill feeling
- Wounds that do not heal
There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.
When should I see my doctor?
If you have any signs or symptoms listed above or have any questions, please consult with your doctor. Everyone’s body acts differently. It is always best to discuss with your doctor what is best for your situation.
Know the causes
What causes MRSA?
Aureus bacteria developed methicillin resistance after many years of this antibiotic being used to treat infections. Most cases of MRSA infections are usually due to skin contact with an infected person or by sharing the tools that have been infested. In addition, those with a weakened immune system because of surgery, cancer treatment, dialysis… also have greater chance of having MRSA infection.
Know the risk factors
What increases my risk for MRSA?
There are many risk factors for MRSA, such as:
- Being hospitalized (visiting, hospitalization, working…)
- Participating in contact sports. MRSA can spread easily through cuts and abrasions and skin-to-skin contact.
- Living in crowded or unsanitary conditions.
- Men having sex with men. Homosexual men have a higher risk of developing MRSA infections.
Not having risk factors does not mean you cannot get hamstring strains. These factors are for reference only. You should consult your doctor for more details.
Understand the diagnosis & treatment
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. ALWAYS consult with your doctor for more information.
How is MRSA diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made by getting samples of skin, pus, blood, urine, or secretions from the nose. These are cultured (grown) in a laboratory to see whether MRSA bacteria are present.
How is MRSA treated?
Some infections may not need antibiotics. Abscesses are first treated with incision and drainage. Possible drugs include trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and newer ones such as linezolid, daptomycin, quinupristin/dalfopristin, tigecycline, and telavancin. People with HA-MRSA infections can be isolated. Visitors and health care workers should wear protective clothes, and wash hands after patient contact. Room surfaces and laundry should be disinfected.
Lifestyle changes & home remedies
What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help me manage MRSA?
The following lifestyles and home remedies might help you cope with MRSA:
- Re-examine punctually to keep track on the disease’s progress and your health condition.
- Follow doctor’s instruction
- Remember that hand-washing is the best way to stop spreading infections.
- Change and wash linens often. Use hot water and hot dryers for bed linens and towels. Clean areas around sick people.
If you have any questions, please consult with your doctor to better understand the best solution for you.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Review Date: May 30, 2016 | Last Modified: April 13, 2017
Ferri, Fred. Ferri’s Netter Patient Advisor. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders / Elsevier, 2012. Download version.
MRSA http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mrsa/basics/definition/con-20024479. Accessed July 14, 2016.
MRSA https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007261.htm. Accessed July 14, 2016.