J.S. asks from Aurora, IL on May 10, 2011
Impetigo/staph on Face and Arms
so my son who is 2 was seen on friday for rash which turns out to be impetigo, was given the oral antibiotic then on sunday became worse and spread all down his arms so took him back and they continued the antibiotic and added the ointment. Anyway just wondering when this is going to go away, his arms are clearing up but his face is still so itchy and rash, crusty nothing seems to help with the itch and I know that is why it isn't getting better faster due to him itching it and spreading. This stuff is highly contagious so I haven't let him go by other kids except his sister. how long should I wait till I have him seen again?
More Answers
N.W. answers from Eugene on May 10, 2011
I'd check back with your dr. if he's not gettting better. Sometimes it takes a different antibiotic. Also, make sure you are not using cortisone on his rash because it causes the infection to spread. My daughter struggled with rash and staph infections and it seemed to take a long time to completely clear up.
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M.P. answers from Portland on May 11, 2011
Somehow I caught Impetigo in my nose of all places... It took almost two whole months for all signs to completly disappear. It was all up in my sinus cavity. This is highly contagious, make sure you wash your hands really well after you put the ointment on your son. I hope he feels better soon. Good luck.
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J.R. answers from Miami on May 11, 2011
Hi J. S. So sorry you and your son are going through this.
Some thoughts in addition to the great advice:
1. Can you go to a pediatric dermatologist. Sometimes they know some tricks or wisdom that help skin heal faster. they can also allay your fears better.
2. If not, I agree with the below, I would go for a second opinion.
3. Please know that kids heal quickly and this will pass soon!
HTH Jilly
S.D. answers from Tampa on May 11, 2011
My son has impetigo, but has never actually had a rash. He just gets spots on his face, maybe 1 at a time, but usually 2-3. We use antibiotic ointment. My son does rub the spots when he sucks his thumb. They usually take about a week or 2 to heal depending on how much he aggravates the area and if it's in a place we can put a bandaid so he can't rub it. I would say if he's been on both oral and ointment antibiotics for more than a week, go ahead and call the doc and see what they say. They may want to see him or they may just say give it another week or so. Good luck!
A.L. answers from Charleston on May 11, 2011
Give it a week. Try to dress him in lightweight long sleeved shirts so he can't pick at it on his arms. My pediatrician gave Bactroban creme for my son when he had it. Maybe that would work better than the ointment on his face? It absorbs right in and it worked wonders. I would call and just let them know it is not getting better on the face yet. Doesn't hurt to ask if there is another option! Good luck!
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