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20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL

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Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections arise when harmful bacteria enter the body and begin to multiply, causing illness. Antibiotics can be used to treat bacterial infections, as opposed to viral infections, which are caused by viruses.

These infections can impact different areas of the body and vary in severity from mild to serious. Because of this, our Clinic is committed to providing diagnosis and treatment to help prevent further complications.

Types of Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections are categorized into:

  • Respiratory infections Include ailments like pneumonia, tuberculosis (TB), and bronchitis.
  • Skin infections: Involve conditions such as cellulitis, and impetigo. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are also common form.
  • Gastrointestinal infections Include illnesses like food poisoning and gastritis. Furthermore, STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, are part of this group.

Signs and symptoms

Signs of infection can differ based on the type of infection. The common ones include:

  • Rash
  • Itchiness
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Penile discharge
  • Pelvic or abdominal discomfort
  • Pain when peeing (dysuria)
  • Unusual vaginal discharge

Certain bacterial infections, like chlamydia and non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU), may not show any symptoms. In addition, some infections present different symptoms in both men and women.

Have more questions?

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Prevention

To lower your risk of bacterial infections, maintain proper hygiene by frequently washing your hands and handling food safely. Also, staying updated on vaccinations is crucial because some bacterial infections are preventable through immunization.

To lower your risk of exposure, stay away from close contact with those who exhibit signs of infections.

Infection Risks

Poor hygiene

Inadequate handwashing can allow bacteria to enter the body.

Sexual activity

Some bacteria such as those causing gonorrhea or chlamydia can be transmitted through sexual contact.

Injuries and wounds

Scrapes, cuts, or other skin injuries can become infected when bacteria enter through these breaks.

Contaminated food and water

Eating or drinking anything contaminated with harmful bacteria may cause gastrointestinal infections.

Environmental factors

Environments with high crowd density or poor sanitation can heighten the risk of bacterial infections.

Close contact

Direct skin-to-skin contact, or respiratory droplets from an infected individual are the most likely ways for bacteria to spread.

The following medical conditions can raise the risk of infections:

Antibiotic resistance

When antibiotics are used excessively or inappropriately, resistant bacteria can develop; making infections more difficult to cure.

Immune system compromise

Conditions including diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and cancer therapies can impair immunity, leaving the body more vulnerable to bacterial infections.

Chronic conditions

Long-term illnesses such as cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can make people more vulnerable to bacterial infections, especially in the lungs.

What Next?

Identifying the cause of your bacterial infection-related symptoms is essential for effective treatment and relief. Book an appointment with one of our doctors to determine the best course of action.

We are open

Monday to Thursday 9am to 6pm

Friday 8am to 5pm

Saturday & Sunday by Appointment Only

Call Us

020 7183 2362

E-Mail Us

[email protected]

Address

20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL