This disease is a dieter's worst nightmare - a crazy, headline-grabbing organism known as Streptococcus pyogenes, responsible for both strep throats and flesh-eating fun. (The term "necrotizing fasciitis" may sound fancy, but it really just means your muscle tissues are dying; even Hippocrates talked about patients losing "flesh, sinews, and bones in large amounts.”) It's a speedy infection that can devour an entire inch of skin in just one hour.
The disease is very rare – and because initial symptoms are similar to the flu, more often than not diagnosis is tragically delayed. But with incidents on the rise, the warning signs are worth reviewing: Typically, a skin injury – as small as a pinprick or scratch – allows the bacteria to slip beneath the skin. Pain greatly disproportionate to the injury (and likened to the pulling of a muscle) usually occurs within 24 hours.
Experience flu-like symptoms and the appearance of purplish blisters. Without the prompt use of antibiotics and surgical removal of infected tissue, toxic shock can occur, and then... Diabetes, substance abuse, childbirth, old age, obesity, and even chickenpox can increase the risk. However, just over half of the cases occur in young and otherwise healthy individuals. So if you suspect you have it, act quickly - or you could be on the menu.