Knowing the MRSA Symptoms is important to effective treatment because early treatment reduces the risk of it spreading and serious complications.

Though MRSA can originate in a surgical wound, the first symptoms commonly appear on the skin. A break in the skin, like a rash, puncture, cut, scrap, burn, etc. will often be the point of entry for the bacteria.

Once this infection is diagnosed, prompt medical treatment is needed. There are many symptoms that mimic other illnesses and health issues and staph infections, which makes it difficult to diagnose.

When colonizes (is present with no symptoms or signs) in the nose, it can spread to others and cause symptoms.

MRSA Signs and Symptoms On The Skin

The symptoms are the same for adults and children. MRSA symptoms on the skin may originate as a bump that resembles a bug bit. Instead of it being a little itchy and going away, it will quickly look infected, have pus, or turn into a boil. It will be very painful and swell. In addition to symptoms on the skin, there may be flu like symptoms that will be experienced.

The only way to determine if it is just an infected bug bite or rash is by going to a health care professional who can swab the wound, take a blood sample, or identify the presence of MRSA DNA. The test results are usually available within days. When  DNA testing is done, the results can be available within hours. Once the infection is diagnosed, effective treatment can begin. Impetigo is common in children and without proper MRSA Treatment it can be susceptible this infection.

Symptoms That MRSA Has Spread To The Organs

Untreated MRSA can spread to the organs like the lungs or other parts of the body and become serious fast. This is especially true for people who have a weak immune system due to illness, injury, or other health issue. Some of the symptoms when MRSA spreads include the following:

  • Extremely high fever
  • Shortness of breath
  • Low blood pressure
  • Joint pains
  • Persistent cough
  • Chest pains
  • Excessive fatigue

The only way to be certain that the above symptoms are symptoms of MRSA is to be tested by a healthcare provider. He or she will be able to determine if the symptoms are from MRSA or another health issue.

Symptoms That MRSA Is In The Blood (sepsis)

Untreated MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) can lead to blood poisoning (bacteremia). This occurs when there is a high level of bacteria in the liquid portion of the blood. The combination of toxins that are produced and low blood pressure can cause toxic shock syndrome. Symptoms that MRSA is in the blood:

  • Chills
  • Light headiness
  • Shaking
  • Rash
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Decrease urine output
  • Delirium

When there are symptoms of MRSA in the blood it will be important to be in contact with a medical professional so he or she can do testing and monitor the condition. If MRSA is in the blood it is a serious condition that will require immediate treatment.

Sometimes, to avoid MRSA symptoms, it just takes proper wound care and covering vulnerable skin when in places where there is risk of an infection (hospital, gyms, day care centers, prisons, etc.). It is best to avoid an infection by building a strong immune system and following prevention guidelines. MRSA infections can be scary, but they can be treated.