Bacterial InfectionA bacterial infection is an infection caused by bacteria. Bacterial infections can often be treated successfully with antibiotics. An infection may begin as a bacterial infection. Or a bacterial infection may follow a viral infection that does not get better. When a viral infection doesn't get better for 10 days or more, or when a viral infection starts to improve and then unexpectedly gets worse, a bacterial infection may be more likely. A bacterial infection usually affects a single area in the body, such as the sinuses, lungs, ears, or urinary tract. Common bacterial infections include sinusitis, pneumonia, strep throat, ear infections, and bladder infections. If untreated, a bacterial infection can spread to the bloodstream. This condition is called bacteremia. Current as of:
March 3, 2017 Author:
Healthwise Staff Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Robert L. Cowie, MB, ChB, MD, MSc, FCP(SA), MFOM - Pulmonology |
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