Infections can sometimes make their way deep into the body, which can cause serious health effects and complications. Also known as bone infection, osteomyelitis occurs when bacteria and other germs infiltrate bone tissue.
Osteomyelitis can occur after an injury or surgery, or the condition can recur over time, which is known as chronic osteomyelitis. When treatment is provided promptly, most people experience no lasting health effects related to the bone infection.
Most episodes of osteomyelitis are caused by bacteria. In this case, doctors can use antibiotics to eliminate the infection and relieve the symptoms. The initial course of medication is usually administered intravenously, and this treatment is followed up with oral antibiotics. Treatment can last for several weeks, but it is important to take the full course of medication.
In the event a person’s bone infection was caused by fungus, antifungal medications are needed. These drugs involve a longer course of treatment, and it often takes many months to resolve the infection. However, most people experience relief from symptoms early in the treatment regimen.
Certain medical conditions affect the function of the immune system and increase one’s chances of infection as a result. Accordingly, people with medical conditions like sickle cell anaemia or those who are on immunosuppressant drugs for other health conditions have a higher risk of bone infections.
Regardless of your risk factors, practicing thorough wound care can reduce your chances of developing an infection. Here are some steps to take:
Also, deep puncture wounds should be assessed by a physician, no matter how minor they appear. These injuries carry a higher risk of osteomyelitis because they can expose underlying tissues to germs.