Impetigo: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Home Remedies

How to Reduce  Impetigo

Impetigo is a highly contagious skin disease that affects both adults and children. It is more common in small children, elderly and individuals with decreased immunity. It appears as red sores round nose or mouth but may also affect other parts of face, neck, arms, and legs. It is a highly contagious disease. Different types of impetigo are impetigo contagiosa, bullous impetigo, and erythema.

What are the Symptoms of Impetigo?

Impetigo appears as red and small spots. It soon changes into a blister and then breaks. It is very itchy and painful. The fluid oozes and crust is formed. The sore may be small or of the size of a coin. It increases in number and size.

What Causes Impetigo?

Impetigo is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria infect the skin through the break in the skin that follows an injury, insect bite or cut. Risk factor for causing impetigo includes poor hygiene, warm weather, impaired immunity, diabetes, dermatitis and other skin infections.

How is Impetigo Treated?

Impetigo treatment depends on the severity of the disease. Mild cases can be treated by home remedies we have mentioned in this article. In the cases of server infection that is spreading quickly or if home remedies for impetigo don’t work consult your doctor as soon as possible.

5 Best Home Remedies for Impetigo

1.Garlic

Garlic is a natural anti-inflammatory and antibiotic. It fights infection and also eases pain and itch. Mince 2-3 cloves of garlic and heat them in 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Strain it, cool it and apply on the affected part. Repeat this 2 times for a few days.

Also, increase the dietary intake of garlic. In case you are taking garlic supplement do consult your doctor once.

2.Turmeric

Turmeric acts as an anti-inflammatory and relieves redness and pain. Mix one-fourth teaspoon of turmeric powder to enough quantity of coconut oil or olive oil to make a paste. Apply this pate to sores and leave it for half an hour. After half an hour rinse it off with warm water. Repeat this 3-times in a day.

3.Heat Therapy

Heat therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat mild cases of impetigo. It helps the lesions to dry and also kills the bacteria that cause infection. Soak a washcloth or a cotton ball in hot water and wring out the excess of water. Apply the washcloth when at a bearable temperature to the lesion and keep it for a few minutes. Repeat this process for about 15 minutes. Repeat this several times in a day.

4.Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibacterial. It checks the infection and also prevents the formation of scabs. It cleans the affected area and promotes healing. Dilute a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in 2 cups of water. Mix the ingredients and apply on the affected part with the help of a cotton ball. Leave it for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water, Repeat this 2 times in a day. You may also use white vinegar for this purpose.

5.Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is one of the most effective home remedies for most of the skin issues. You can also use it to treat mild cases of impetigo at home. Tea tree oil is a potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. it relieves pain and its and fights off infection. Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with a tablespoon of olive oil and apply on the lesions. Leave it for half an hour and then wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this 3 times in a day.

Beside the home remedies also make changes in your dirty habits. Eat citrus fruits, fresh vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid sugary food, fried foods, and processed food. Make habit of drinking about 9-10 glasses of water every day. Also add sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, tuna, flax-seeds to your diet.

Impetigo is highly contagious so better avoid crowded places. Children should not be send school, let them rest at home. Avoid sharing food and drinks. Avoid sharing utensils or other belongings and refrain yourself from kissing.
In this article, we have tried to compile basic information on impetigo and common and easily available home remedies for impetigo. If you have any related query add it to the comment section below.