Signs and Symptoms of MRSA

Early identification of a MRSA infection is important, so treatment can start right away and potential spreading can be stopped. In order to identify MRSA, here are the top signs and symptoms of an infection that may appear on the skin as a bump, or in a general area, according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention): 

• Redness 
• Painful 
• Swollen
• Warm to the touch
• Full of drainage, or pus 

These signs and symptoms represent the presentation in earlier stages of an infection. However, if the infection does spread the presentation might change and include more serious concerns. These might include: 

• Fever
• Chills
• Low blood pressure
• Joint pain
• Severe headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Rash

At a certain point, if the infection spreads enough, your body may go into septic shock, where the infection has spread throughout. Signs of this whole body infection, include: 

• Fever, or low body temperature
• Fast heart rate
• Fast breathing rate........along with previously mentioned signs and symptoms 

Here are some visuals of what an infection might look like: 

If you have signs of infection, consult your provider as soon as possible! 

For more detailed information on signs and symptoms of MRSA, take a look at this article: 

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/10634.php

And lastly, for some humor......

References: 

MRSA Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - What are the signs and symptoms of a MRSA infection? - MedicineNet. (n.d.). Retrieved May 15, 2015, from http://www.medicinenet.com/mrsa_infection/page4.htm#what_are_the_signs_and_symptoms_of_a_mrsa_infection 

  

(n.d.). Retrieved May 15, 2015, from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/10634.php

MRSA Research Center. (n.d.). Retrieved May 15, 2015, from http://mrsa-research-center.bsd.uchicago.edu/patients_families/resources.html