AYURVEDA PERSPECTIVE ON SKIN INFECTION

• Itching or burning sensation
• Redness or rosy discoloration of the skin
• Bumps or blisters
• Dry, scaly, or peeling skin
• Fluid-filled bumps that may burst and crust over
• Rash that spreads or covers a large area
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Swelling
• Warmth to the touch
• Changes in skin texture or appearance, such as thickening or scaling

Signs of Danger

Fever, nausea, loss of appetite, headache and malaise are also warning signs the infection warrants immediate antibiotics. Additionally, redness, swelling, and tenderness to the touch are signs that the infection has spread to lower skin layers (cellulitis) and warrants immediate antibiotics.

A spreading infection should be closely monitored. With a non-toxic marker, draw a circle around the infection to monitor whether or not it is spreading. A spreading skin infection may represent a serious health risk and lead to sepsis.

All skin infections should be examined by a qualified medical professional. Accurate diagnosis often greatly improves treatment.

Common Causes of Skin Infections

Ayurveda assesses the doshas and biocharacteristics that may underlie the following causes of skin infection:

• Toxins (Ama) - From the digestive tract, other infections, poor circulation, or poor diet
• Sweet blood - Hyperglycemia attracts opportunistic bacteria, who thrive in the sugary environment
• Poor circulation / Lymphatic congestion - This leads to a buildup of metabolic waste products on the skin
• Low immunity - Such as during pregnancy, or periods of extreme stress or fatigue
• Skin trauma - Skin injury, such as from burns, stings, bites, poison ivy, skin allergies, or other skin trauma can progress to an infection.
• Dirt, oils, or excess moisture - An excess of sweat makes the skin sticky, leading to accumulation of dirt and other particles which may irritate the skin.