Staph infections are caused by the staphylococcus bacteria. There are more than 30 types of staphylococcus bacteria, but the strain that most commonly causes infection is called Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium is present naturally in the nose and on the skin; however, when a cut or wound is present, Staphylococcus aureus can enter into the wound and cause a variety of infections. Staphylococcus can also be spread through the air, through contaminated surfaces and from person to person. Hand washing is the most important defense in preventing staph infection and the resulting symptoms.
Skin Infections
Among the most frequent type of staph infections are infections of the skin. Boils, which are pockets of pus that develop in the hair follicle or oil gland, are the most common symptom. The skin around the area becomes red and swollen and eventually the boil will burst, draining a combination of pus and blood. Impetigo is another symptom. It is characterized by a rash made up large oozing blisters. These blisters will most often show around the nose and mouth, according to the Nemours Foundation website Kids Health. Cellulitis, an infection of the lower layers of the skin, can also result from a staph infection. Symptoms of cellulitis include swelling, redness and pain at the infection site; it most often occurs on the legs and arms.
Food Poisoning
The staphylococcus bacteria can also cause food poisoning. Symptoms of food poisoning include abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea and usually appear within six hours of eating contaminated food, according to MayoClinic.com. The infection usually clears on its own within two days, but may cause more serious problems in the very young or elderly.
Bacteremia
Bacteremia, or blood poisoning, occurs when the staphylococcus bacteria enters the bloodstream. The most prevalent sign of bacteremia is a constant fever. If bacteremia is not treated, it can lead to deeper infections such as endocarditis, which is an infection of the heart, or pneumonia, an infection of the lungs. The staphylococcus bacteria can also cause infection in artificial joints and pacemakers.
Toxic-shock Syndrome
Although largely associated with tampon use, toxic-shock syndrome can also occur as a result of a skin wound. In both circumstances, the syndrome is caused by the staphylococcus bacteria. Toxic-shock syndrome presents quickly and is characterized by high fever, nausea, confusion, muscle aches, headaches and rash.
Septic Arthritis
Septic arthritis is the inflammation of a joint that usually occurs as a result of the spread of bacteria from the blood to a joint. Septic arthritis most commonly affects the knee or the hip, according to the National Institutes of Health website Medline Plus. Septic arthritis is accompanied by fever, chills, pain and swelling of the joint.
