Bacterial Infections Treatment Clinic in Charleston, SC

Bacterial infections are caused by harmful bacteria. Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that multiply rapidly and can cause a wide range of health concerns. While certain bacteria are beneficial and necessary for our wellness, other strains lead to infections and illnesses.
 
When bacteria enter the body, toxins are released and multiply in tissues, leading to inflammation and various other symptoms. Bacterial infections can affect many parts of the body, including the skin, respiratory system, urinary tract, and gastrointestinal tract. The most common bacterial infections include strep throat, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and food poisoning.
 
Prompt treatment is necessary to alleviate bacterial infections and associated symptoms. To effectively target and eliminate bacteria, antibiotics are commonly used. If you suspect you have a bacterial infection, it’s advised to consult a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and effective treatment options.

Bacterial and viral infections are two distinct kinds of infections with different causes. While both make you feel unwell, there are differences between the two. Bacterial infections are caused by bacteria that invade and reproduce, leading to infection. This includes food poisoning, strep throat, whooping cough, and certain sexually transmitted infections. As for treatment, bacterial infections often require antibiotics.
 
On the other hand, viral infections are caused by viruses, which are much smaller than bacteria and only reproduce inside host cells. Viral infections include the flu, the common cold, and viral gastroenteritis. Unlike bacterial infections, viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics as these medications are ineffective against viruses. Instead, antiviral medications are used to manage certain viral infections. In most cases, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the immune system’s response. Overall, accurately distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections requires medical expertise.

Bacterial infections can affect various body systems, resulting in a range of symptoms and health concerns. The most common bacterial infections are:
 
• Strep throat – This is an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria.
• Urinary tract infection (UTI) – Bacterial infection in the urinary system is often caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria.
• Sinusitis – Infection of the sinuses often results from bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae.
• Pneumonia – This type of infection inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs and is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
• Skin infections – Common skin infections include cellulitis and impetigo, which can be caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
• Bacterial gastroenteritis – The gastrointestinal tract can be affected by bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, or E. coli.
• Tuberculosis (TB) – This is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs. A bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes TB.

Several symptoms can indicate a bacterial infection, including:
 
• Fever – A sudden rise in body temperature is a common sign of an infection.
• Pain or discomfort – This symptom varies depending on the site of infection. It can present as throat pain in strep throat or abdominal pain in bacterial gastroenteritis.
• Inflammation – Redness, swelling, or warmth at the site of infection can occur, such as in skin infections or urinary tract infections.
• Fatigue – Bacterial infections often cause a general feeling of tiredness and lack of energy.
• Respiratory symptoms – Coughing and difficulty breathing may be present in respiratory bacterial infections such as pneumonia or sinusitis.
• Changes in urine – Painful urination, frequent urination, or cloudy and strong-smelling urine often indicate a urinary tract infection.
• Gastrointestinal issues – Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps are common in cases of bacterial gastroenteritis.

At the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine in Charleston, we prioritize your well-being and provide a comfortable environment to discuss your symptoms and concerns with a skilled healthcare provider. Once a diagnosis is made, the doctor will develop a treatment plan for your specific needs. Our team will also provide you with comprehensive care instructions and advice on managing symptoms and preventing infection spread.
 
With the expertise of our doctors, you can trust that you’re in capable hands. If you suspect you have a bacterial infection, schedule a visit with us for prompt, effective, and holistic care. We serve patients from Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville, North Charleston SC, Ladson SC, Hanahan SC, James Island SC, John’s Island SC, Daniel Island SC, all of South Carolina, Nationally, and Internationally. Patients routinely fly into Charleston to be evaluated by COEM and to enjoy this beautiful city which is a Condé Nast and Travel and Leisure Top Domestic and International Tourist Destination.