Q. What's the Difference Between MRSA and a Pimple?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a strain of staph bacteria that has become resistant to many commonly used antibiotics. It is usually spread through skin-on-skin contact and can cause serious, potentially life-threatening infections. MRSA often appears as a red or swollen bump that may be tender, warm to the touch, full of pus, oozing fluid or crusty in appearance.
On the other hand, pimples are caused by blocked pores and an overproduction of sebum. This in turn leads to whiteheads (pus filled bumps), blackheads (bumps with oxidized sebum inside), cysts/nodules (large lumps under the surface of your skin) and spots (red inflamed areas). Pimples are generally not contagious and have no risk associated with them other than those related to physical pain or scarring due to excessive squeezing or popping.
While both MRSA and pimples have similar looking symptoms on the surface, there are several important distinctions between them: MRSA is highly contagious while pimples generally aren't; MRSA typically starts as a bump but can quickly become worse if left untreated; it's much easier for an untreated infection from MRSA than an untreated spot; treatment for each condition involve different types of medications - antibiotics for treating MRSA versus topical solutions or creams for treating pimples. In some people’s cases antibiotic treatments such as clindamycin may work depending on their individual case studies however it’s recommended you seek medical advice before trying this method yourself. The bottom line is that if you suspect you may have either one of these ailments seek immediate medical attention – don’t try any home remedies!