Overview

Caused mainly by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria entering through cracks, wounds, or insect bites. Diabetics and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk.

Causes

• Skin injury, cuts, burns
• Insect bites, ulcers
• Post-surgical wounds
• Fungal foot infections (entry point)

Symptoms

• Red, hot, swollen skin
• Pain and tenderness
• Fever and chills
• Spreading rash or blistering
• Lymph node swelling (advanced)

Treatment: Modern Medicine

• Diagnosis: Clinical exam, blood tests, wound culture (if abscess)
• Treatment:
  • Oral or IV antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin-clavulanate, clindamycin)
  • Pain relief, rest, elevation of affected limb
  • Surgical drainage if abscess present

Treatment: Traditional Medicine

• Ayurveda: Nimba, Manjistha, Haridra for anti-infective and anti-inflammatory action
• Siddha: Mathan thylam, Karisalai paste
• Unani: Blood purifiers (Sharbat Unnab, Zarishk)
• TCM: Jin Yin Hua, Lian Qiao (antibacterial herbs)
• Homeopathy: Apis mellifica, Belladonna, Rhus tox
• Nutraceuticals: Vitamin C, Zinc, Echinacea, Curcumin

Caution

• Rapidly spreading infection needs urgent hospital care
• Delayed treatment can cause sepsis or necrotizing fasciitis

Prevention

• Treat wounds early
• Manage athlete’s foot and skin cracks
• Control diabetes and maintain hygiene