Staph Infection and Bacteria that is a significant problem!
Staph Infection on the skin and soft tissues is a common problem in the elderly. The bacteria that causes staph infection is Staphylococcus aureus, also known as staph. This type of bacteria normally resides in the skin and nose of healthy individuals. Unfortunately, staph infections are common in the elderly with a poor immune system. These bacteria live on our skin. But, if it enters the skin through cuts or sores, it becomes a potential source of skin infections. The healthy immunity of young adults is in a better position to fight off infections. However, the immune system also declines with age, making our loved ones more susceptible to staph infections. Dealing with this day out and being careful not to irritate the condition any further can cause strain on you as the caregiver. Here are some great books to help you now.
To make matters worse for our loved ones.
A staph infection is resistant to antibiotics and becomes very difficult to treat. According to the CDC, healthcare facilities see a rise in drug-resistant infections. One of the common drug-resistant infections is MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). In simple terms, this means that a specific strain of staph infection is causing infections. Also, common antibiotics such as methicillin, amoxicillin, and penicillin cannot treat this strain.
MRSA is becoming a severe problem among the elderly population treated in institutional settings each year. This is so because the staph infection can spread quickly in such environments. Which also increases the chances of mortality associated with the disease. While poor immunity is one of the significant reasons for MRSA, The frequent use of antibiotics is equally blamed.
Causes of Staph Infection
An infection can occur if your skin gets a wound and experiences an influx of bacteria from an outside source. Some causes of staph infection are:
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Food poison
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Dirty or infected objects
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Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
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Iron deficiency
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Weak immune system
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Chronic alcohol abuse
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Warm, humid environments
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Skin problems like burns or eczema
Symptoms of MRSA
MRSA infections in the elderly are a common occurrence. These staph infections begin with a slight boil or a pimple but can take a severe turn if left untreated. MRSA infection can become a serious problem related to a urinary tract infection or a surgical wound.
A typical staph infection would produce the following symptoms:
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Skin abscess
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Red
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Swollen
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The area is tender or painful
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Fever
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The area around the spot is warm
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Development of pus and other fluids
If the staph infection becomes more severe, then the following symptoms may develop:
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Rash
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A chronic wound that refuses to heal with standard antibiotics and other treatment
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A cough
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Fever accompanied by chills
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Fatigue
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Anxiety
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Pain in the chest
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A headache
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Breathlessness
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Muscle ache
Our loved ones and the health consequences of MRSA
Older adults aged 75 years and over account for more than 40% of cases of MRSA, as stated by the Journal of Infection. The findings suggest that the affected elderly had an increased risk of mortality with the staph infection. A staph infection is treated early and can benefit our loved ones. However, our loved ones in nursing homes suffering from a staph infection can have a more challenging time fighting the condition. And often, it can become fatal due to compromised immunity.
Wound care for our loved ones
The human body has its natural mechanism to heal wounds. And in many cases, with appropriate wound care, good hygiene, and medications. However, this is usually the case with healthy young individuals. As we age, our skin’s renewal and several other essential body processes take a back seat. Furthermore, our loved ones also have a hard time healing their wounds. This can be due to underlying health conditions such as diabetes.
It is essential not to neglect even a minor wound. For example, suppose your loved one has diabetes and is 60 years old. As a caregiver, it also becomes necessary to consult the doctor immediately, especially if the wound takes more than the average time to heal.
Tips for caregivers to take care of our loved ones with MRSA
Managing our loved ones with MRSA at home should be easier compared to institutional settings. The chances of infection reduce if the elderly can stay in a sterile clean environment when necessary. Furthermore, follow these guidelines to prevent the spread of disease and ensure complete recovery.
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Caregivers should closely monitor wounds of all kinds.
They must keep a close watch on the color change and the nature of the wound. When they notice the damage is getting darker in color, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
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It is essential to wash the towels used for hand wiping every day.
This would also potentially reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
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Always wear disposable gloves while you clean and dress the wound.
Gloves create a barrier between you and the infection. And using gloves keeps your loved one safe, which is the primary goal.
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Practice good hygiene.
Handwashing with soap and water is a must after you touch the infected area. You also must wash your hands thoroughly and sanitize them before and after dressing the wound and clearing up the fluids from the injury.
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Change bed linens need every day.
This is important to maintain a sterile environment. Change more frequently soiled from the fluids and blood of the wound.
Home remedies for staph infection
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Manuka Honey
Sterilizes the wound, speeds up healing, and eliminates the infection.
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Garlic oil
Helps reduce the intensity of the symptoms. Also, it relieves discomfort associated with this type of infection.
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Tea tree oil
It has potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Also, it relieves skin discomfort.
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Oregano Oil
Several chemical components in oregano oil help in reducing infection. It is also as effective as traditional antibiotics.
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Apple cider Vinegar
It fights the bacteria and promotes quick healing.
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Turmeric
This has wound-healing properties that help fight the infection quickly and successfully.
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Goldenseal
The compound called berberine helps kill the bacteria responsible for this infection.
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Echinacea cream
Immune-stimulant properties help ease the symptoms as well as promote recovery. But, if your loved one suffers from an autoimmune disorder, do not use this.
Conclusion
Follow all the tips mentioned above religiously to prevent the spread of infection. This will ensure a fast recovery from your symptoms. But, seek immediate professional help if you cannot get it under control within a couple of days. Staph is a severe problem. Mainly, some of these tips and remedies may be effective at relieving the symptoms. But may not be effective enough to resolve a significant case of staph. Also, check out this post on how to conquer handwashing that will help you with germs.
It can be challenging to attend to your loved one with thinning skin, but it’s not impossible. With the proper knowledge, you can do this. Remember to care for yourself and keep your business going while caregiving. I’m here to assist you on this journey. Schedule your planning session with me to see how to keep your life and business running smoothly.
