Dr didn't test me for MRSA but is treating me with antibiotics as if I have it, should I get a second opinion?

Question

Here's the thing. I went into the dr yesterday because I was concerned about 2 bumps that I have on my head. It kind of feels like they could be in-grown hairs but they are PAINFUL! It feels like they are bruised. It hurts to the point it gives me a headache whenever it is touched. The dr looked at my head and said that I had a skin infection but didn't think it was necessary to test me for MRSA. Instead, she gave me an antibiotic that is to clear up that strain.
After going home and thinking about it, I wonder if I should tested. I do work in a school district and go to numerous buildings.
What should I do, just take the meds and not worry or get a second opinion?
THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!!

The antibiotic I am taking is called:
Sulfameth/Trimethoprim 800/160 tabs

Answer 1

If you'd feel safer getting a second opinion do it. I personally would take the antibiotic and see if it helps, if it doesn't start to get better in a week I'd go back to the doctors. For the most part doctors know what they're doing, however if this is a new physician and you don't really trust him/her yet, I'd go and get a second opinion.

Answer 2

Based on your Doc's examine of your bumps, he/she was able to determine that is wasn't MRSA but, you do have an infection. What antibiotic did you have prescribed ??Because MRSA requires a very heavy duty antibiotic known as Vancomycin ( Vancocin). Is this the antibiotic that you are taking?? With all news about CA-MRSA ( Community Acquired MRSA), many people are quick to think that they may have this infection. So, if this is not the antibiotic that you are on, then, more than likely it is not MRSA. Be sure to take all of the prescribed antibiotic even if the bumps feel better and are healing. This is important because, if people do not complete the full course of the medicine, the germ that is causing the infection can be become resistant or the antibiotic becomes no longer effective against certain strains of germs/bacteria. You do have an infection that would suggest that it is a bacterial infection. Also, if it is MRSA, your Doc would of considered hospitalization to treat it.I hope that this helps.
Ruth

Answer 3

If you're uneasy about this, go to another doctor, and take the antibiotics with you. MRSA is usually due to a resistance to antibiotics (from having taken too many of them over the years). So, I think it would be best to see another doctor to determine if you have MRSA, and if the current course of antibiotics is the best treatment. And, also, for another examination of your bumps. I'm attaching a link to a site about MRSA, in case you want to do some research about it. Good luck.

Answer 4

Sulfameth/Trimethoprim 800/160 (aka Septra) is good against both community acquired MRSA and regular staph. In communities where there is a lot of community acquired MRSA around, doctors are leaning toward treating ALL skin infections with Septra (or another drug that is good against both types of staph) just to be safe. Sounds like that's what your doctor is doing with you. Strikes me as a sensible precaution.