Staph (staphylococcus) is the name of a parasitic bacteria that commonly gathers in clusters on the skin of animal organisms. Although staphylococcus exists in at least 28 species, some of which can bring about a multitude of infectious diseases in humans, most breeds seldom cause affliction. Of the separate varieties, staphylococcus aureus is the instigator of most infections in people. Signs of contamination appear mainly in the nose and on the skin. If the epidermis is compromised, the bacteria may then enter deeper levels of tissue, leading to a number of dangerous complications.
Who Is Susceptible?
Any person is capable of contracting a staph infection, but certain people are more easily afflicted than others. Those whose immune capacity has been lowered, usually from surgery or illness, are at high risk. A great number of staph infections reported each year are developed in health care settings.
The dangers of contracting staph also run high among athletes who share personal equipment, and military personnel who abide in communal barracks. Skin abrasions and open wounds are easily penetrated by staphylococcus aureus, making intravenous activity a possible way to transmit the bacteria. Infection can occur from getting a tattoo, or administering drugs directly into the veins.
Symptoms
The superficial onset of staph is usually characterized by an abscess forming at the location of infection. This is a small bag of puss, typically surrounded by an inflamed patch of skin. The swollen area will likely be discolored and painful. Indicators that the staph bacteria has moved beyond the skin, and into the body include: fighting to breathe, a general feeling of discomfort, fever or chills. These symptoms may be accompanied by chest pain, muscle aches, fatigue, shortness of breath and headache.
Secondary Conditions
When an infection reaches tissue beneath the skin, it can infiltrate the bloodstream, leading to more serious consequences. Bacteria may reach the lungs, causing pneumonia. Corruption of the cardio-structure can result in heart failure. Over time, staph may even destroy the bones by way of a condition known as osteomyelitis.
Staph bacteria also generates poisonous substances that cause illness when consumed in food. Symptoms of staph food poisoning include: diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and dehydration. However, this condition usually subsides on its own within a week.
