Necrotizing fasciitis is a reason to keep close watch on minor cuts
Necrotizing fasciitis has been a hot topic for its life-threatening effects on a 24-year-old zipliner, but the effects of the flesh-eating bacteria are unique among individuals. Aimee Copeland has been the primary focus for the past two months concerning the flesh-eating disorder.
But necrotizing fasciitis bacteria are common in the throat and the skin and relates to common illnesses like strep throat and impetigo.
People with chronic conditions like diabetes or a lacking immune system are advised to be the most careful. Cuts or wounds should be under twice as much care by these people.
However common it is, necrotizing fasciitis does not typically affect its carriers as severely as it has Aimee Copeland. Necrotizing fasciitis is a disorder that develops with the onset of the flesh-eating bacteria to the fascia, a sheet of tissue that holds together the muscles and fat. The bacteria then spreads rapidly to those areas of the body.
Independent Mail reported that when diagnosed with strep throat, it is vital to follow doctors’ orders and take antibiotics as instructed to prevent necrotizing fasciitis. And, impetigo is a disease whose symptoms are inflated, red sores found around the nose and mouth. Impetigo is more common among children under 18 years of age, and can spread by contact.
But, necrotizing fasciitis is not contagious.
Both illnesses are caused by an infestation of Group A Streptococcus (GAS). Strep throat can develop into a high fever and chest and stomach rashes, as well as tongue-swelling when GAS bacteria take over.
Cuts, wounds and scrapes should be carefully monitored for redness, swelling, intense pain or fever. To prevent necrotizing fasciitis, the affected area should be sterilized and covered until the wound heals completely.
The main word of advice Missoulian offers is to examine questionable wounds and treat them early to prevent necrotizing fasciitis. The simplest tip that media outlets commonly suggest is to wash the hands as frequently as possible.
