Signs of a skin infection after an allergic reaction

Infection is more likely to develop when a rash breaks down the upper layer of skin. Scratching a rash further breaks down skin and lets bacteria into the areas of broken skin. Signs of an infection include:

• Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the affected area.
• Red streaks extending from the affected area.
• Drainage of pus from the area.
• Swollen lymph nodes near the site of the rash.
• Fever or chills with no other known cause.

It may be hard to tell the difference between an allergic reaction and an early infection. Both cause redness and swelling. Pain may be present with an infection. Itching is usually a symptom of an allergic reaction. You may be able to tell the difference by watching the swelling and redness of the area. With an allergic reaction, swelling and redness develop but usually do not increase in size. When infection is present, pain, swelling, and redness usually increase in size as the infection spreads.

Skin allergies can cause rashes. Contact dermatitis, such as from poison ivy, may become infected.

If you follow home treatment steps for cleaning and caring for a rash, you will reduce the chance of developing a skin infection.

Certain areas of the body, such as the mouth, the genital and anal area (perineum), and between the toes, have greater amounts of normal skin bacteria. Rashes in these areas are more likely to become infected.

When an area is becoming infected, pain, swelling, and redness usually increase as the infection spreads. Other signs of an infection include fever, red streaks extending from the wound, and pus that drains from the area.

Prompt medical treatment of an infection can prevent serious complications.