Signs of Infecton

Infections are caused primarily by external pathogens like bacteria, viruses and fungi. These pathogens enter the body through improperly cooked food, cuts, wounds and respiration. Once in the body, they begin to multiply, causing signs and symptoms typical of infection. Recognizing these signs is vital to both prevention and effective treatment.

Skin

• Complications of the skin are often the first signs of infection. Localized infections--infections that have not spread to other areas of the body, particularly the bloodstream--are often associated with cuts, lesions, scars or wounds. The skin around the localized infection may be swollen, red, painful and tender to the touch. Skin may be warm or hot around the infection because of blood pooling to the area. Infected wounds may also release or ooze a pus-like discharge, often white or greenish in appearance.

Symptoms

• Symptoms occur typically if a localized infection is left untreated. Lack of treatment allows an infection time to enter the bloodstream or develop into a more serious condition. As infection spreads, an individual may experience symptoms such as chills, fever, weakness and pain in the joints. If a localized infection increases in severity, a condition known as cellulitis may occur. Cellulitis is often accompanied by a distinct swelling of the lymph nodes or red streaks on the skin.

Organs

• The possibility of an infection spreading to major organs increases once it enters the bloodstream. This is a condition known as sepsis. Infection of the lungs is usually accompanied by an underlying disease, such as pneumonia, and may cause shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain and abscesses on the lungs. Acute swelling of the bones may be an indicator of internal infection caused by osteomyelitis. Signs of heart infection, known as endocarditis, include swelling of the abdomen and legs (edema) as well as night sweats, joint pain and scattered skin lesions.

Urine

• Complications of the urine may be indicative of a serious kidney infection. Signs include frequent urination combined with fever, back pain, groin pain, a burning sensation while urinating and the presence of pus or blood in the urine. As is the case with the infection of other major organs, severe kidney infections can be life-threatening.

Warning

• Seek medical attention if visual signs of an infection do not abate within three to four days. Infections of the face, particularly around the eyes, may be indicative of a more severe underlying disease. Do not ignore the signs of infection, especially within children, the elderly or people with a compromised immune system (such as one affected by HIV).