At first, Tammy Ross thought nothing about messing with her fingernail on her thumb. It had become ingrown; the pain and swelling were too much to deal with. So Tammy simply decided to fix it herself—something that so many people have done for their ingrown nails. During her attempt, she managed to remove the nail, but also cut her finger. Not a problem, Tammy thought. The finger would heal.

But, reports WRAL, her condition deteriorated over the next 24 hours. Her thumb became severely inflamed. Tammy began feeling ill and exhausted, her body too weak to even stand. Her husband and daughter became increasingly concerned. Eventually, Tammy was rushed to Central Carolina Hospital for help. It was here that she was diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis, a serious bacterial infection that destroys muscle fascia and tissue under the skin. 

Understanding Necrotizing Fasciitis

Necrotizing fasciitis typically results from bacteria; in Tammy’s case, doctors believed that group A Strep bacteria were the root cause. However, in extremely rare cases, this condition may result from fungal infections. The bacteria enters the body through a break in the skin, such as an open wound. But it may also enter through blunt force trauma. Anybody can contract this illness. However, it is more common—and also more dangerous—in people who are immunocompromised.

It is important to act quickly when dealing with necrotizing fasciitis. This condition is aggressive and fast-spreading. Without treatment, it can be fatal. Treatment typically requires debriding the area alongside antibiotic treatment. In more severe cases, surgery and blood transfusions may be required. For Tammy, her thumb was amputated to avoid the infection spreading.

Symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis often begin with a red and inflamed area of skin that grows in size, pain, and a fever. As the infection progresses, symptoms and complications may include:

• Ulcerated or blistered skin with pus or oozing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and general weakness
• Dizziness
• Black spots on the skin or other changes in skin color
• Diarrhea
• Organ failure
• Sepsis
• Shock

Luckily for Tammy and her family, the doctors treated her in a timely manner and she has made a great recovery. Her family now urges others to learn about necrotizing fasciitis; these lessons could save a life.