Should impetigo scabs be removed

Schmitt, MD. All rights reserved. Your privacy is important to us. Learn more about our website privacy policy. Advisor Categories. Impetigo Infected Sores. What is impetigo? The infected sores: Are less than 1 inch in diameter Start as small red bumps, which rapidly change to cloudy blisters, then pimples, and finally sores Are often covered by a soft, yellow-brown scab May cause swollen lymph glands in the area near the sores May be draining pus Impetigo often spreads and the sores increase in number from scratching and picking at the initial sore.

What is the cause? How long does it last? How can I take care of my child? Oral antibiotic Some children with impetigo need an oral antibiotic prescribed by their healthcare provider. Antibiotic ointment You can buy antibiotic ointment without a prescription.

Reason: to prevent spread. Reason: may need an oral antibiotic. Many of these children also have a Strep throat. Bellevue Everett Federal Way Seattle. Should your child see a doctor? All Symptoms. Accept All Cookies. If you have multiple lesions or if there is an outbreak, your doctor might prescribe an oral antibiotic.

There is no over-the-counter OTC treatment for impetigo. Untreated, impetigo often clears up on its own after a few days or weeks, Smith says. The key is to keep the infected area clean with soap and water and not to scratch it. The downside of not treating impetigo is that some people might develop more lesions that spread to other areas of their body. Wash anything that may have touched the infected area. Try to avoid scratching the area. Call your doctor or nurse call line now or seek immediate medical care if: You have symptoms of a worse infection, such as: Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.

Red streaks leading from the area. Pus draining from the area. A fever. Impetigo gets worse or spreads to other areas.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse call line if: You do not get better as expected. Current as of: February 10, Home About MyHealth. Include Images Large Print.