Best Over The Counter Medicine For Staph Infection
If you've ever had a staph infection, you know how uncomfortable and painful it can be. Staph is a bacterial infection that can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin infections, pneumonia, and even sepsis. While prescription antibiotics are the most effective treatment for staph infections, there are also some over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can help alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process. In this article, we'll discuss the best OTC medicine for staph infection.
What is Staph Infection?
Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as staph, is a type of bacteria that can cause a range of infections. While staph is commonly found on the skin and in the nose of healthy individuals, it can cause infections when it enters the body through a cut or wound. Staph infections can range from minor skin infections, such as boils and impetigo, to more serious infections, such as pneumonia and sepsis.
Best Over-The-Counter Medicines for Staph Infections
While prescription antibiotics are the most effective treatment for staph infections, there are also some over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can help alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process. Here are some of the best OTC medicines for staph infections:
1. Pain Relievers
Staph infections can be painful, especially if they are located on the skin. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. These medicines are especially helpful for skin infections, such as boils or impetigo, which can be very painful.
2. Topical Antibiotics
OTC topical antibiotics, such as neomycin and bacitracin, can be used to treat minor skin infections caused by staph. These antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that are causing the infection. They are usually applied directly to the affected area and can be purchased at most drugstores.
3. Antiseptic Cleansers
Antiseptic cleansers, such as chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine, can be used to clean the skin and prevent staph infections from spreading. These cleansers work by killing the bacteria on the skin and preventing it from entering the body through a cut or wound.
4. Anti-Itch Creams
Staph infections can be itchy, especially as they start to heal. Over-the-counter anti-itch creams, such as hydrocortisone, can help alleviate itching and reduce inflammation. These creams can be applied directly to the affected area and can be purchased at most drugstores.
5. Probiotics
While probiotics are not technically an OTC medicine, they can be helpful in preventing staph infections. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They can help boost your immune system and prevent staph infections from occurring in the first place.
Conclusion
If you have a staph infection, it's important to seek medical treatment from a healthcare professional. Prescription antibiotics are the most effective treatment for staph infections. However, over-the-counter medicines can help alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process. Pain relievers, topical antibiotics, antiseptic cleansers, anti-itch creams, and probiotics are all OTC medicines that can be helpful in treating staph infections.