Hot Tub Folliculitis is the term given to the infection of hair follicles caused by the bacteria known as Pseudomonas Aeruginosa. As this bacteria frequents and thrives in warm and wet environments, hot tubs, pools and bath tubs are prime locations for its propagation and abundance, unless precautions are put in place.
Pseudomonas Aeruginosa multiplies extremely quickly if the correct conditions exist, thus greatly increasing the risk of infection. In the cases of pools and hot tubs, the odds of infection increase considerably due to the wearing of swimsuits, which hold infected water against the skin for longer periods.
Within 2 weeks of being in contact with the bacteria, hot tub folliculitis symptoms will materialize. Initially, inflammation of the hair follicles occurs, showing up as itchy bumps, sometimes pus-filled. These bumps form at the centre of small red papules, which can be approximately 3 centimetres in diameter. Ultimately, these bumps may become very tender and dark red nodules, and in some cases may even show as brownish in colour.
In rarer instances, during the initial few days of the rash, fatigue and tiredness may be experienced, but fever is exceedingly unusual. People whose immune system response is low, may in rare instances develop skin abscesses. The rash that develops normally vanishes within a week to ten days, leaving behind dark lesions that will ultimately disappear after several months.
Due to the shared environments that are associated with the onset of this condition, such as hot tubs and pools, it is not unusual to see entire families being affected by hot tub folliculitis at the same time.
Treatment of hot tub folliculitis may not be necessary at all, as it usually subsides and disappears by itself. Nevertheless, due to uncomfortable itchiness, creams and ointments may be used, and in more severe, persistent widespread attacks, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Obviously, prevention is better than cure! As the culprit is familiar and easily identified, prevention is relatively easy to achieve. The best method of prevention is to maintain the correct and safe levels of disinfectant in the water. Water should be changed frequently, along with high-quality cleaning of the bath tub and continuous water filtration.
Is it too late?
If you are too late to take these preventative measures and are already suffering, I know you will be interested in finding out about the all natural folliculitis treatment options that are available.
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