How to Identify Symptoms of MRSA

MRSA is a potentially serious skin infection that can quickly spread to other parts of the body. There are many ways to become infected with the MRSA bacteria. The infection can spread in hospitals or medical facilities. Additionally, the bacteria can enter the body by way of a cut or scratch. MRSA is treatable. However, it’s important to recognize the symptoms and fight the infection before it spreads.

Instructions

• 1

  Detect small red bumps on the skin. Because MRSA typically begins as a minor skin infection, people infected with the bacteria may notice tiny red bumps on different areas of their body. The infection normally develops near a cut or injury.

• 2

  Notice boils near hair follicles. Boils are pus-filled infections that vary in size. In the case of MRSA, these unsightly bumps can form on the scalp, underarm and near the groin area.

• 3

  Spot an eye sty. As the infection spreads, MRSA causes painful eye styes. Styes grow on the eyelids. And depending on their location, they can irritate or scratch the eyeball and interfere with the ability to wear contact lenses.

• 4

  Recognize upper respiratory symptoms. If left untreated, MRSA gradually spreads to other organs. Once the infection spreads to the lungs, sufferers may develop a cough, shortness of breath, wheezing or show early signs of pneumonia.

• 5

  Develop a high fever. Fevers are common in mild cases of MRSA. However, they typically respond to medications. If a fever worsens or body chills develop, the infection has likely spread to other organs such as the lungs, kidneys and urinary tract.