A Potentially Deadly Infection Being Seen in Common Foot Conditions

You may have seen recent headlines warning the public of an antibiotic-resistant bacteria called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or more commonly known as MRSA. It’s now being seen in common foot conditions.

While MRSA has been most commonly contracted in hospitals, the bacterial staph infection is now popping up in patients who have foot conditions, such as ingrown toenails, athlete’s foot, and cuts and cracks in the skin.

Due to breaks in the skin, the MRSA bacteria can easily enter your system, leaving you seriously ill.

MRSA infections are common. In fact, one in three people carry the bacteria on their skin or in their nose, which then can be spread to others through skin contact. However, if you take some simple—and necessary—precautions, you can prevent a MRSA infection:

• Clean and bandage any cuts, especially on your hands and feet
• If you have suffered a puncture wound to the bottom of the foot, visit a doctor within 24 hours to take necessary steps to prevent infection
• Never dig out or cut out an ingrown toenail; visit a podiatrist who can safely remove it for you
• Maintain good foot hygiene to help prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot
• Avoid sharing personal items, like towels, razors or washcloths

You can also prevent MRSA infections by taking proper care of your feet, such as having good hygiene and having ingrown toenails and other foot-related conditions evaluated by a podiatrist. If you have any cuts or wounds that are not healing in a timely matter, you should also seek the help of a podiatrist, who can help determine if MRSA is present or if there is another underlying cause as to why your wound is not healing.

For more information about foot health, or to make an appointment with a podiatrist at Triad Foot Center, please click here to request an appointment or call one of our three offices conveniently located in the Piedmont Triad.

 

 

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