If you are thinking about becoming a cosmetologist, Lakeland is the place to be. After all, the area has some of the top cosmetology schools in the U.S. After you finish your education, you are likely to find gainful employment in the region.
When you are in cosmetology school, you are going to learn about the importance of disinfecting your tools. While the main purpose of this procedure is to keep your clients safe, you should be aware of the risks to your health. That is, you may develop a potentially life-threatening infection when working as a cosmetologist.
People are full of germs
People have millions of germs in their hair, under their fingernails and on their skin. While most of these germs are harmless, others can be deadly. If your equipment cuts or scratches your skin, bacteria and viruses may work their way into your bloodstream or soft tissues.
Infection can become serious
While many infections are minor inconveniences, others can become serious quickly. Therefore, when working as a cosmetologist, you should watch for signs of infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, infection symptoms can worsen quickly. Be sure to seek immediate medical care for any of the following:
- Soreness, redness or swelling near a wound
- Fever, headaches or blurred vision
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or loss of appetite
Sepsis can be deadly
Sepsis and septic shock are your primary risks. These conditions happen when your bodily systems shut down due to your infection-related immune response. If you do not get immediate medical treatment, you may die or suffer catastrophic injuries.
Ultimately, if you develop an infection at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits or other types of financial compensation to help you obtain the medical care you need.
