What exactly is a staph growth?

I thought I was bitten by a spider a couple of days ago so I went to the doctor, when I got there he told me I had a Staph Growth, what is this? He gave me two antibiotics, it isnt as bad as yesterday so I am assuming it is working. He also told me to watch for red streaking, what is this, and would I know because I tan so my skin is somewhat dark. Please help me, I am one of those people who will freak out, which I am doing right now.





Thanks!

What exactly is a staph growth?
What he meant by "staph growth" is that you have a skin infection caused by a bacteria called staphylococcus. It's a very common bacteria, probably the most common one that causes skin infections. In order to get rid of the infection, you MUST take antibiotics. It's important to take the antibiotics until they're all gone and not stop taking them just because it looks like the infection is better. This is because we often feel better before the bacterial infection is completely gone...and if you stop the antibiotics early, the infection can return. When this happens, the bacteria can become resistant to the antibiotic that you're taking.





When a bacteria is resistant to an antibiotic, that just means that it has developed the ability to not be killed by the antibiotic. It's a survival mechanism. Staph infections are notorious for developing resistance to antibiotics, so it's important to notify your doctor if the infection doesn't get better or if you see the red streaking that he mentioned. The red streaking would look like how it sounds...reddened streaks starting at the site of the infection and extending outward. Red streaking would indicate that the infection is spreading systemically (meaning throughout your body) and that would be more serious than a local infection (meaning one that's limited to the site where you were bitten or injured).





Don't freak out. If it isn't as bad as yesterday, the antibiotics are working. Just take the antibiotics exactly as prescribed, don't miss any doses and don't stop taking it until they're all gone. And in the meantime, if the infection looks or feels worse -- larger, more painful, feels hot to the touch, you see red streaks -- call your doctor right away and tell him so he can change your antibiotic if necessary.
Reply:Staph growth is an infection of staph bacteria. The antibiotics your doctor prescribed should clear it up. Make sure you take ALL of them as directed... don't stop taking them just because your infection appears to be cleared up.





Your doctor wants you to watch for red streaking because it would indicate the infection has entered your blood stream. In other words, blood poisoning. You would see it even with a tan. The streaks will run from the point of infection toward your heart. If you do see any streaks, contact your doctor immediately or visit the emergency room.
Reply:Staph or Staphylococcus is a bacteria. It comes as 2 common varieties Staphylococcus aureas and Staphylococcus epidermis. Both are common organims on your skin and both can cause infection if there is a break in the skin. Not sure what your doctor means by "red streaking" but I assume that there is inflammation in the bite area, he probably means worsening of the cellulitis in the area if the antibiotics aren't working. Make sure you complete your antibiotic course (take them until you are finished). Hope this helps!
Reply:Red streaking means that the infection has spread and you need to get back to the DR. ASAP!! This is quite serious. I hope you feel better soon.