Ten most common skin disorders
We all know that our skin is our biggest organ. And, because it’s often exposed, disorders make us self-conscious, embarrassed or downright cranky. Let’s look at the top 10, and with a little help from www.drugs.com, talk about what the options are.
The most common disorder is acne. Long the cause of anxiety for teenagers, the incidence of acne is growing in adults as well.
Acne is caused by blocked hair follicles and oil (sebaceous) glands of the skin, often triggered by hormonal changes. The term acne refers to not only pimples on the face, but blackheads, cysts and nodules as well.
“Acne is not related to diet or poor hygiene. In fact, too much washing can cause an acne flare-up to get worse,” Drugs.com says.
There are tons of over-the-counter ointments and creams on the market. My advice is to start with a trip to your primary care provider, who may recommend a visit to a dermatologist.
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is one of the most common forms of eczema seen in children. The exact cause is mostly unknown.
“Atopic dermatitis can appear on the face (especially in infants), hands, feet or in the creases and folds of the skin. Dry, scaly and itchy skin are the norm, and constant scratching may lead to a thickened area. Topical steroids are often used to lessen symptoms," Drugs.com explains.
We’ve talked about shingles (herpes zoster) before. You’ll remember that it’s caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. This blistered rash may wrap around your torso or appear anywhere on your body. A fever, fatigue and headache may accompany an episode.
I can tell you from experience that it’s terribly painful. So, I wholeheartedly recommend the vaccine. It’s very effective.
Hives (Urticaria) appear on the skin in raised, red, itchy areas. These familiar welts can be caused by medications, food and bug bites or stings.
“Seek urgent treatment or call 911 if your hives cover a large area of your body, your throat or facial area is swelling, or they affect your breathing. Hives usually go away in two to four hours; however, in some people hives may persist for months or years,” Drugs.com says.
Sunburn. Oh, don’t we know sunburn in this hot weather? They say the obvious when Drugs.com says, “it’s easier to prevent a sunburn than to treat one.”
They also say that it’s hard to know how much time in the sun is too much, especially if you’re wearing sunscreen. All exposed skin should be protected by sunscreen rated at least 30 SPF (sun protection factor) before you go out in the sun. Be sure to reapply every two hours.
“See a doctor if you have a fever, chills or severe blistering over a large portion of your body. Don’t scratch or pop any blisters, this can lead to infection,” Drugs.com says.
Contact dermatitis occurs when we touch something that evolves into a skin reaction. It can be caused by latex, plants, jewelry, bleach, or a variety of other products. Another d’uh goes to Drugs.com for saying, “To prevent contact dermatitis, avoid the object.” I say, antihistamines and a topical anti-itch cream.
Everyone with infants in their lives knows about diaper rash. “Urine and stool can break down skin, and chemicals in a disposable diaper can dissolve out and irritate the skin. Candida (yeast) or bacteria can take advantage of the inflamed, broken skin and complicate the rash.” Drug.com says.
Change your baby’s diaper as needed to keep him or her dry and expose the baby’s bottom to fresh air when possible.
Rosacea is a chronic swelling of the face with redness, prominent blood vessels, and pimples. Your PCP can recommend effective treatments.
Athlete’s foot (tinea Pedis) is a fungus infection. “It can lead to extreme itching, redness, and cracked skin on the feet and between toes.”
Luckily there are a multitude of over-the-counter anti-fungal topical sprays and creams. Protect your feet by keeping them clean and dry.
And finally, in the top 10 is basal cell carcinoma. We’ve talked about this before, too. It’s the most common type of skin cancer in the U.S. Be sure to see your healthcare provider straight away if you have a growth that looks shiny, red, and scaly or like an open sore.
Kathy Hubbard is a member of the Bonner General Health Foundation Advisory Council. She can be reached at kathyleehubbard@yahoo.com.
