Flesh-Eating Bacteria: Symptoms, Causes & Early Warning Signs

Flesh-eating bacteria, or necrotizing fasciitis, is an infection most commonly caused by Strep A bacteria. The infection destroys soft tissue at the subcutaneous level. Many of its symptoms begin within 24 hours.

Trauma

• Flesh-eating bacteria usually starts with minor trauma to the skin, according to HealthierYou.com. This cut or abrasion might not appear infected.

Pain

• Some pain might be present near the injury site. The pain will not necessarily be at the injury site.

Pulled Muscle Sensation

• Pain might feel like a pulled muscle at first, according to HealthierYou. The pain will feel worse than the injury warrants, and will increase.

Flu-Like Symptoms

• As the bacteria progresses, the patient will feel flu-like symptoms. These might include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

Dehydration

• Flesh-eating bacteria cause dehydration, so the patient will begin to feel an insatiable thirst.

Swelling

• The wounded part of the body might start swelling. A purple rash might accompany the swelling.