Wellness Tips from Josef Schenker, MD
Welcome to our Wellness Tips blog series, where we’re dedicated to helping you feel your best with practical advice and expert insights. Guided by Dr. Josef Schenker, Medical Director at Centers Urgent Care, this series breaks down complex health topics into simple, easy-to-follow strategies that anyone can use. Drawing on years of experience in internal medicine and emergency care, Dr. Schenker shares thoughtful tips to help you stay proactive, informed, and in control of your well-being. Each post is designed to empower you with tools to live a healthier and more balanced life.
Common Skin Infections
Skin diseases are a significant concern worldwide. According to the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Studies, skin conditions have consistently been a major health issue. In 2010 and 2013, they were the fourth leading cause of nonfatal burden, and by 2021, they ranked as the eighth leading cause. With such a high prevalence, understanding how to prevent and treat skin infections is crucial. Dr. Josef Schenker offers expert advice on how to keep your skin healthy and infection-free.
Dr. Josef Schenker Explains How to Prevent Skin Infections
Josef Schenker, MD emphasizes that preventing skin infections is key to maintaining overall health. Here are practical tips to prevent skin infections:
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water can prevent many types of skin infections. Make sure to wash your hands before eating, after using the restroom, and after touching potentially contaminated surfaces.
- Keep Your Skin Clean and Dry: Moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. After bathing, make sure to thoroughly dry off, especially in areas prone to sweating like the armpits and groin. This simple habit helps prevent skin infections by reducing the damp environment in which microbes thrive.
- Moisturize Regularly: Use a good-quality moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Dry skin can crack, creating an easy entry point for infections. Apply moisturizer daily, especially after bathing, to maintain your skin’s natural barrier and keep it healthy and infection-free.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Sharing towels, razors, and makeup can transfer bacteria and fungi, increasing the risk of skin infections. Always use your items and avoid sharing them with others to maintain good hygiene and reduce the chances of spreading infections between individuals.
- Wear Clean Clothes: Regularly change and wash your clothes, especially after sweating. Clean, breathable fabrics like cotton can lower the likelihood of skin infections by minimizing bacterial buildup. Keeping your clothing fresh and dry contributes to overall skin health and reduces the risk of irritation and infection.
- Protect Your Skin: When outdoors, wear protective clothing like long sleeves and hats, and apply sunscreen. This shields your skin from harmful UV rays and reduces the risk of damage which can make your skin more susceptible to infections.
- Be Mindful of Public Spaces: Wear sandals in public showers or locker rooms to protect your feet from fungi and bacteria that thrive in damp environments. This simple precaution reduces the risk of contracting infections like athlete’s feet.
- Practice Safe Grooming: If you visit salons for manicures, pedicures, or haircuts, ensure that the tools are sterilized. High hygiene standards prevent the spread of infections like fungal nail infections. By choosing salons that prioritize cleanliness, you reduce the risk of contracting skin and nail issues, ensuring a safe grooming experience.
- Treat Cuts and Scrapes Properly: Clean cuts or scrapes thoroughly with soap and water to remove dirt and bacteria. Cover them with a clean bandage to protect against infection and promote faster healing. This simple practice reduces the risk of complications and ensures wounds heal properly without further irritation or infection.
- Boost Your Immune System: Keeping your skin healthy from the inside out is crucial. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. A strong immune system can help fend off infections.
- Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals: Skin infections can be contagious. Avoid close contact with people who have visible skin infections and encourage them to seek medical treatment.
Josef Schenker, MD, Explains How to Treat a Skin Infection
Despite your best efforts, skin infections can still occur. When they do, it’s essential to treat them promptly to avoid complications. Here are Dr. Schenker‘s tips on how to treat skin infections:
- Seek Professional Help or Professional Diagnosis: If you suspect a skin infection, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Understanding even the most common skin conditions can help prevent them from worsening.
- Keep the Infected Area Clean: Gently clean the infected area with mild soap and water. Pat it dry with a clean towel and avoid scrubbing, which can worsen the infection.
- Apply Topical Treatments: Depending on the type of infection, your doctor may recommend topical creams or ointments. Apply them as directed to help reduce symptoms and promote healing.
- Keep It Covered: Use a sterile bandage to cover the infected area and keep it clean. Change the bandage regularly.
- Avoid Picking or Scratching: Picking or scratching the infected area can lead to further irritation and the spread of infection. Keep your nails trimmed and consider wearing gloves if you tend to scratch while sleeping. If the itching is severe, consider using an anti-itch cream.
- Use Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the infected area can help reduce pain and swelling. Do this several times a day for relief.
- Take Medications as Prescribed: If a healthcare provider prescribes antibiotics or antifungal medications, take them exactly as directed. Do not stop the medication early, even if symptoms improve.
- Stay Hydrated and Rest: Your body needs plenty of fluids and rest to fight off infections. Drink lots of water and get adequate sleep to support your immune system.
- Monitor for Signs of Complications: Josef Schenker, MD strongly advises to watch for signs that the infection is worsening, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, you can visit urgent care like Centers Urgent Care for expert medical advice and treatment for various skin conditions.
Josef Schenker, MD, Answers Frequently Asked Questions:
The most common skin infection is impetigo, especially in children. It’s a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes red sores, usually around the nose and mouth. If you notice these symptoms, see a doctor for proper treatment.
Yes, skin infections can be dangerous if not treated. While many are mild, some can spread to deeper tissues and cause serious problems. It’s important to see a doctor if you notice signs of infection like redness, swelling, or fever.
Yes, some rashes can be contagious, especially those caused by bacterial or viral infections. It’s best to check with a doctor to find out the cause of your rash and if it can spread to others.
Yes, it’s advisable to seek medical attention at an urgent care facility like Centers Urgent Care. This is especially true if you have a rash that is spreading rapidly, is accompanied by fever, or shows signs of infection like pus, swelling, or increased pain,
Centers Urgent Care: Your Partner in Skin Health
Your skin is your body’s first line of defense against infections. Maintaining healthy skin is crucial for overall wellness. With the right preventive measures and timely treatment, you can keep common skin infections at bay. Follow the prevention tips above to maintain healthy skin. If you suspect a skin infection, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
Whether you need advice on prevention or treatment, you can trust Centers Urgent Care to provide the care you need. Headed by Dr. Josef Schenker, our team of experienced healthcare providers is ready to assist you with your skin concerns. Visit any of our well-equipped facilities across New York to keep your skin healthy and infection-free.
Take action before your minor skin issue becomes a major concern. Contact us today!
About Josef Schenker, MD:
Dr. Josef Schenker a board-certified expert in internal medicine and emergency medical services, brings extensive experience and compassion to his role as Medical Director and Partner at Centers Urgent Care. With leadership in SeniorCare Emergency Medical Services and as an Attending Physician at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Dr. Schenker oversees critical care and treatment protocols across varied medical needs. His dedication extends to chairing NYC REMAC, ensuring adherence to state standards in emergency medical procedures. At Centers Urgent Care, Dr. Schenker's expertise ensures prompt, high-quality emergency care for patients of all ages, supported by state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated pediatric suite.
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