1. Drain Your Sores
If you're fortunate enough that your MRSA infection is locally contained, you may only need to have your abscess drained to cure your condition. Doctors will usually try to do this first in appropriate cases, because Staphylococcus bacteria are known for being resistant to many antibiotic drugs. You can have the procedure performed right in your doctor's office. Using special surgical tools, your doctor will tap into the abscess and drain it of the pus, fluid and bacteria it contains. Follow-up care may be necessary, but this treatment will often suffice if your case is mild.
2. Effective Antibiotic Treatments
More complex cases need to be treated with antibiotics. Doctors are growing increasingly concerned, because resistant strains of Staphylococcus bacteria are becoming more and more common. There are several antibiotic drugs that still work in the majority of cases, but you may have to try taking a few different types until you find one that works for you.
Vancomycin is the most frequently prescribed antibiotic for cases of MRSA infection. You may also encounter trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, clindamycin, tetracycline and linezolid. No matter which antibiotic works, it's vital that you follow your doctor's directions exactly. If you take too much or too little of the drug, the bacteria may become resistant to it. This can exacerbate your condition considerably.
3. Treating Complications of MRSA Infection
If your MRSA infection is affecting internal tissues and organs, you'll have to undergo more aggressive treatments to cure your condition and head off potentially disastrous complications. Staph infections can become life threatening if they reach this point.
Depending on the affected internal structures and the extent of your infection, your doctor may put you on an intravenous drip, delivering fluids and antibiotics directly to your veins. You might also need oxygen support to aid your breathing. Sometimes, MRSA infection can lead to kidney failure. Should you be so affected, your doctor will turn to kidney dialysis as an emergency measure to save your life. It's vital to seek prompt treatment if you have a staph infection, so report any suspicious signs and symptoms to a medical professional right away.
