What is Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) ?
Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA is a specific form of staph bacteria. While it is true that there are certain types of antibiotics that are used in the treatment of staphylococcus infections, MRSA is a bit more challenging to treat as it does not respond to the treatment in the same manner. This condition is also identified as “Hospital Acquired MRSA HAMRSA” and “Community Acquired MRSA CAMRSA”. The official designation depends heavily on the method of transmission.
The infections that occur as a result of this condition are considered to be relatively difficult to treat. As a result of this fact, many medical professionals consider hospital acquired MRSA HAMRSA and other types quite dangerous. Throughout this health guide, you will be introduced to many facts about Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus.
Causes
The bacteria that is identified as “Staph. Aureus” is considered to be relatively common. It has been estimated that one in every four individuals that are considered to be healthy carries this particular bacteria on the skin or in the nasal region of the body. In most instances, this bacterium does not result in complications, such as infections. Unfortunately, should the bacteria have the opportunity to invade the internal regions of the body through the means of a breakage in the skin, or medical equipment such as a breathing tube, it could result in the onset of an infection.
It does not matter if the infection is hospital acquired MRSA HAMRSA or another type, it could become a minor infection or a serious infection.
For many, the infection could be limited to a skin complication. For others, it could be as serious as an infection of one of the organs of the body. The more serious infections affect those with immune system complications. Individuals that are in the hospital or another type of similar location often acquire Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA.
The following includes other locations that may result in the onset of MRSA
• Local Gyms
• Day Care Facilities
• Nursing Homes
• Military Housing
• Tattoo Parlors
Common Symptoms of MRSA
Out of all the types of MRSA, hospital acquired MRSA HAMRSA is considered to be the most common. When an individual develops this condition, they often experience many uncomfortable symptoms. The following highlights the most common:
• It is common for MRSA that impacts the skin to become swollen and discolored. In most instances, the sufferer will experience pain. Rashes may develop on the skin.
• When this infection occurs on the skin, it is likely that fluids will drain from the site of infection.
• Many individuals may experience respiratory complications such as pain in the chest region, a moderate to a severe cough, and may feel as if they are short on breath.
• Discomfort may occur when a patient is suffering from Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA. Common types of discomfort include body chills, extreme fatigue, mild to severe fever and aches associated with the muscles.
• A person that is suffering from this potentially devastating condition may experience a condition that medical professionals refer to as “Malaise”. This means that the sufferer has a general feeling that is often described as being “ill”.
• If the infection affects a major organ, it could result in symptoms that are directly related to that organ’s functioning.
Treatment
There are several different types of treatments that may be used to assist an individual suffering from Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA. For individuals that have the bacteria on the skin, a doctor may indulge in draining the infected site. However, patients are encouraged to keep the infection covered unless directly informed to do otherwise by a medical professional. Despite the fact that the infection is resistant to most antibiotics, many doctors may elect to prescribe these medications in order to combat the infection.
In many instances, the medication is sufficient and allows the patient to overcome the complications that they are experiencing.
Unfortunately, if the MRSA infection is considered to be severe, this treatment may prove to be ineffective. It is common for many hospitals to prescribe fluids through an IV and possibly even IV medications that are known to combat the bacteria. If a particular organ is infected, treatments are often geared towards those organs. For example, if the lungs are infected, oxygen may be provided to a patient.
This bacterial infection is considered to be potentially serious. By educating yourself on the condition, you will have a higher success rate at overcoming the challenges that are commonly associated with it.