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Skin Infections

Skin Infections

Skin Infections in Santa Barbara, CA

Skin infections range from simple superficial problems that involve the outer layer of skin to more significant infections that go deep into the tissues. Dr. Keith Llewellyn offers treatment for skin infections for residents of Santa Barbara, Ventura, Santa Maria, Santa Ynez, Solvang, and the surrounding areas of California.

What Are Skin Infections?

Skin infections happen when bacteria penetrates the protective layer of skin. As the largest organ in the human body, your skin is responsible for keeping bacteria and other pathogens out of your body. An open sore may allow bacteria or other pathogens to bypass this protection and cause a skin infection. Your body responds to this intrusion by activating your immune system to fight off the infection. The symptoms of a skin infection (redness, inflammation, warmth, tenderness, fever) are signs that your body is trying to fend off an intruder. Infections may be caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. For example:

  • Fungi cause ring worm, athlete’s foot and jock itch
  • Parasites cause scabies and lice infestations
  • Bacteria, such as staph (staphylococcus), may cause folliculitis, cellulitis, an abscess, carbuncles and even sepsis
  • Viruses cause warts, cold sores, genital herpes, shingles, chicken pox

Infants, children, adolescents and adults can develop skin infections, and those with weak immune systems are at increased risk.

How Much Does Treatment for Skin Infections Cost?

Dr. Llewellyn needs to evaluate your skin condition and determine if you have a skin infection before he can recommend a treatment. After your consultation, we will have a plan of care upon which to determine the cost. Our payment options are cash and major credit card, and you can learn more on our financing page.

What Are the Benefits of Treatment for Skin Infections?

Skin infections can spread to the surrounding skin and even other parts of your body if the bacteria, virus, fungi or parasite is able to reach your bloodstream. Left untreated some skin infections can result in death. Dr. Llewellyn can initiate appropriate treatment in the earliest possible stages of the infection.

Am I a Candidate for Skin Infections Treatment?

Symptoms of skin infections are:

  • Pus or oozing
  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Open sores
  • Blisters
  • Rashes

If you have a more severe skin infection, you may develop a fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, and other issues that indicate the infection has spread beyond the skin. If you have these symptoms, we recommend that you seek medical attention immediately.

What Should I Expect from Skin Infections Treatment?

Dr. Llewellyn often prescribes medications for skin infections. These prescription medications may be oral or topical. Abscesses may be incised and drained. Cultures may be taken and sent to a laboratory to determine what organisim is responsible for your infection and to help guide your treatment.

While some skin infections can be remedied with at-home care, you run the risk of allowing the infection to become more serious and spread locally and to other parts of your body. Aloe Dermatology offers skin infections treatment for men and women in Santa Barbara, Solvang, Ventura, Santa Maria, Santa Ynez, and the surrounding areas of California. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.