Signs Of Infection

What are the signs of infections? There are generally two types of infection, local and systemic. There are different, as well as, similar symptoms for each type.

A systemic infection is usually caused by a bacteria or virus. A systemic infection is in the bloodstream, so it manifests itself through symptoms throughout the entire body. Examples of systemic infection is a cold, a virus, the flu, mono, strep throat. Signs and symptoms of a systemic infection include:

-fever

-aches

-chills

-nausea

-vomiting

-weakness

A local infection is an infections in which the entire body is not infected, only a specific portion or the portion which is affected. For example an infected wound or cut would be an example of local infections. Symptoms of a local infection are indicative to the site and include:

-pain

-redness

-pus

-swelling

-foul odor drainage

-heat to the site

The only systemic symptom local infections can cause is fever.

Tylenol, ibuprofen or aspirin help for fever and pain. For local infections, keep site clean, warm moist compresses may be applied.