SKIN DISEASES – TYPES, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENT
Skin diseases are conditions that affect the skin, and they vary in appearance, symptoms, and seriousness. Some are temporary, while others are permanent. They can also be painful or painless. Some skin conditions may be genetic, while lifestyle factors may cause others.
They may cause rashes, inflammation, itchiness, or other skin changes.
TYPES
Here are 5 of the most common skin diseases:
- Acne: This is a skin condition that occurs when the hair follicles (tunnel-shaped structures that anchor the hair to the skin) become blocked with oil, dead skin, or bacteria. This will in turn lead to whiteheads or pimples with blackheads. Even though it is most common with teenagers, it affects individuals of all ages.
- Hives: These are itchy raised bumps or welts that occur when a person is exposed to an allergen, physical triggers, or an underlying health condition. Hives can sometimes be mildly painful.
- Eczema: This is a type of skin condition that causes patches of the skin to become inflamed, itchy, cracked, leathery, and rough. The rash usually happens on the face, back, chest, knees, wrists, hands, and feet.
- Warts: These are a type of skin disease caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This causes rough, coloured bumps to form on the skin. The virus is also contagious and may be passed from one person to another.
- Ringworm: This is a common skin disease that is caused by fungus. The disease is called “ringworm” because it can causes itchy, red, circular rashes on the skin. Pets are known to transmit this condition to humans.
SYMPTOMS
Skin disease symptoms vary depending on the condition, duration, and appearance. However, some of the most common symptoms include:
- Abnormal pigmentation (discoloured skin patches).
- Rough, leathery skin.
- Rashes with itchiness and pain.
- Pus-filled bumps.
- Ulcers
- Pimples
TREATMENT
Many skin diseases are treatable. Common skin disease treatments available include:
- Good hygiene practice.
- Antibiotics.
- Antihistamines
- Medicated skin creams/ointments.
- Targeted prescription medications.
Doctorcare247 offers specialist advice on how to detect and treat skin diseases. Click this link to book an appointment with Dr. Sobande Isimamwen, a Skin Specialist on Doctorcare247.
