Staph Infections

Eczema patients have been found to suffer from staph (staphylococcal bacteria) infections on the skin more than others.

Eczema patients do not make enough antibacterial proteins called magainins. These proteins kill bacteria in the skin but those of us with eczema are in short supply. Staph infections will usually manifest themselves as pustules. One type of staph infection that I had several years ago was folliculitis. This is a staph infection in which red pimple-looking bumps appear around the hair follicles. I had them all up and down my legs. I know, gross.

Treatment: If you have a staph infection go to your doctor immediately for antibiotics. Oral antibiotics cleared up my folliculitis in a couple days (for more of folliculitis from the Mayo clinic, click here). Oral antibiotics, though, are only given for severe infections since they can also build up resistence. The doctor also told me to wash with an antibacterial soap in the shower. Usually, eczema patients are told to avoid harsh soaps since they can be very drying, but when staph is getting out of control, it is best to use them. For less severe outbreaks, topical antibiotics can be used. One that my doctor has given me is a cream called Mupirocin. When I get a postule that appears to be infected, I just put some of this on right away.

Prevention: Since eczema patients have more staph on them than others, when an eczema patient gets a cut or scrape, it is best to wash with soapy water quickly to prevent the spread of staph. And keep cleaning it regularly. Also, use emollients often because staph likes dry skin better than well-moisturized skin.