What is
Skin Infection
A skin infection occurs when bacteria enter the skin through a cut, scrape, insect bite, or hair follicle, causing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and sometimes pus or drainage. Common types include cellulitis (infection of the skin and underlying tissue), abscesses (pockets of pus), impetigo (a highly contagious crusting infection), and folliculitis (infection of hair follicles). Treatment depends on the type and severity of infection but typically includes oral or topical antibiotics, warm compresses, and proper wound care. It is important never to squeeze or attempt to drain an abscess at home, as this can spread the infection deeper into surrounding tissue. Antibiotic treatment should be completed in full even if the area appears to be improving before the course is done. Seek emergency care immediately if you develop a red streak spreading from the infection site, rapidly worsening pain, black or darkened tissue, high fever with confusion, or signs of sepsis, as these indicate a potentially life-threatening infection.
Common symptoms
Redness, swelling, or warmth
Pain or tenderness
Pus or drainage
Skin changes after a cut, scrape, insect bite, or irritated hair follicle
How your visit works
You'll complete a short online assessment describing your symptoms and health history. A licensed medical provider reviews it — usually within the hour — and determines the safest, most appropriate treatment. If a prescription is appropriate, it's sent directly to your pharmacy.
When to seek in-person or emergency care instead
Seek emergency care immediately for a red streak spreading from the infection, rapidly worsening pain, black or darkened tissue, high fever with confusion, or signs of sepsis.
What happens next
Quick assessment: about 10 minutes, from your phone or computer.
1
Provider review: a licensed medical provider evaluates your case, usually within the hour.
2
Treatment plan: sent to your pharmacy if a prescription is appropriate, in two hours or less.
3
No insurance needed
HIPAA compliant, confidential
Full refund if we can't treat you
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