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Posts tagged skin conditions
Treatment for Eczema
Aug 13th
Eczema is a chronic skin condition. It is not contagious. It causes dry itchy and flaky skin. It results in intense itching of the affected parts of the skin. Although eczema affects all ages, it usually appears in early childhood. Hence it is commonly found to affect babies, between the age group of 2 months to 6 months and toddlers. Eczema, especially in children and babies causes considerable anxiety to the parents and the care givers who may then resort to a range of topical creams and applications that are readily available in supermarkets these days. However, it is extremely important to consult the health care professional before starting any new treatment regimen. Children usually grow out of this skin condition and no special treatment is needed. In some cases, eczema lasts well into adulthood and becomes a chronic skin condition.There is no permanent cure for eczema, but through proper treatment, eczema can be controlled.
Treatment can be classified into three main categories.
- Preventive Treatment
The irritants that flare up the eczema or worsen the existing symptoms of eczema must be identified and avoided. Other allergens that are notorious to bring an attack of eczema are food products such as egg, soy, wheat, gluten, milk and milk products, as well as sea food such as shellfish and crab.
- Symptomatic treatment
The symptoms of eczema include dry skin, patchy redness and intense itchiness. Moisturizers are used to relieve the dryness of cream. Eczema, especially in children and babies causes considerable anxiety to the parents and the primary care givers who may then resort to a range of topical creams and applications that are readily available in supermarkets these days. However, it is necessary to consult the health care professional before starting any new treatment regimen as the chemicals in the creams may irritate the skin and flare up an attack of eczema. The doctor may prescribe topical applications to treat the itchiness of skin.
- Treating secondary infections and associated symptoms
In many people suffering from eczema, the constant skin irritation and the itchiness lead to constant scratching. As a result of this the skin lesions may get infected by bacteria and viruses. Impetigo is a bacterial infection that can appear on the top of the lesions. In these cases the health care professional may resort to the use of antibiotics. Some people also suffer from other conditions such as asthma and hay fever along with eczema. So the health care professional often prescribes medicines that control the associated allergies.
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Causes of Eczema
Aug 11th
It is often thought that eczema is due to an allergy & that if the cause of the allergy is removed, the condition will be
Skin Dr. - Homeopathic remedy relieves symptoms associated with skin irritations and rashes such as eczema to promote skin strength, health & functioning
cured. In fact, very few people have eczema that is caused by an allergy. However, the same people who have eczema may also have allergies which give them different symptoms.
Eczema tends to run in families
People suffering from this skin condition often present with a family history of asthma, hay fever and other atopic diseases. They may also have a history of allergies to certain substances such as dust, fur, wool and so on.
Irritants can flare up an attack of eczema
A person with a tendency to eczema is generally born with dry, easily irritated skin, which needs special care to prevent eczema developing. Any episode of irritation of the skin can easily flare up an attack of eczema or in other cases, worsen the existing symptoms. Hence it is extremely important to identify the irritants and take steps to avoid them. The most common irritants of the skin are listed below:
- Dust
Dust is one of the most common irritants of the skin and it can worsen the existing symptoms of a dry flaky itchy and red skin.
- Sand
Sand is also one of the skin irritants causing a flare up of the eczema.
- Wool and fur
Another common skin irritant is materials such as wool and fur. They can be found in carpets, car seats, stroller covers and may be one of the common cause of eczema in babies and toddlers.
- Perfumes and deodorants
Many individuals have an allergy to perfumes and deodorants as a result of their high chemical content. This can also cause flare up of the eczema.
- Soap
Certain soaps can lead to increased dryness of skin and worsen the existing symptoms.
- Food Allergy
Food allergy is on e of the most widely discussed and the most common cause of a flare up of eczema. Many people suffering from eczema often report an allergy to food, soy, wheat and gluten. In other cases they may also have an allergy to milk and milk products, fish such as shellfish and sea food such as crab. This can lead to worsening of the existing symptoms. It is extremely important to check the food labeling before buying any food products, in order to avoid the potential allergens and thus prevent an attack.
Symptoms of Eczema
Aug 8th
Eczema is a skin condition. It is non contagious. This is a recurring and an inflammatory skin condition that causes 
dryness of the skin, along with itchiness and red inflamed skin patches. The condition is most common in people with a family history of allergies, such as asthma, hay fever or even an atopic disorder.
Symptoms of Eczema
Although eczema affects all ages, it usually appears in early childhood. Hence it is commonly found to affect babies, between the age group of 2 months to 6 months and toddlers. Children usually grow out of this skin condition. In fact, more than half of all eczema sufferers show signs within their first 12 months of life and 20 per cent of people develop eczema before the age of five.
The most common symptoms of eczema are listed below:
- Dry patchy skin
- Recurrent red rash on the face and the knees
- Rough leathery skin
- Intense itchiness of the skin that is not relieved by scratching
- Skin patches that are affected by eczema may show signs of secondary infection by bacteria and viruses
- Oozing of fluid from the affected skin patches in severe cases of eczema
Types of Eczema
Eczema can be classified into several types. The most commonly found types of eczema are listed below: 
This type of eczema is usually associated with allergies, hay fever or asthma. The skin condition runs in the family. The person suffering from the condition may show a history of allergies or have a close family member such as a sibling or a parent that is affected by the condition.
When irritants touch the skin, they can produce contact eczema. Some of the common irritants include soap, perfumes, deodorants, powder, dust, sand, mites, bubble bath, cleaning products, carpets and fur.
Varicose eczema affects the lower legs as a result of poor blood circulation. People in the middle ages of life, leading a sedentary life style are more prone to be affected by this type of eczema.
- Hand eczema
This is a form of chronic eczema and it is limited to the hands. It can be related to atopic eczema or it can occur because of repeated hand washing or exposure to strong detergents and harmful chemical products in cleaning agents. Occasionally, hand eczema is caused by an allergy, such as a latex allergy.
What is Eczema – Eczema Explained
Aug 5th
Eczema is one of the most common forms of skin disease. This skin disease tends to run in families. The most common parts 
that are affected by the eczema is the front of the knees, elbows and the ankles. In some people this itchy skin rash can affect the entire body. In babies, the face tends to be commonly affected by eczema.
Eczema and dermatitis are terms that refer to an itchy skin rash which often occurs in families. Dermatitis, in simple terms, means inflammation of the dermis. Dermis is the layer of skin. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. This type of skin disease is most commonly seen in infants and children. The child or other family members may also present with a history of other skin diseases, allergies to certain substances, asthma or hay fever. Eczema, especially in children and babies causes considerable anxiety to the parents and the care givers who may then resort to a range of topical creams and applications that are readily available in supermarkets these days. However, it is extremely important to consult the health care professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
People affected by this condition often suffer from extreme dryness of the skin. The skin becomes dry, flaky and dull. In other cases there is intense itching of the skin. The person scratches the skin constantly. This is observed mainly in toddlers and children. The scratching in turn causes intense skin redness and dullness of the skin. The skin becomes inflamed. In extreme and severe cases of eczema, there is oozing of fluid from the affected patches of skin.
Children suffering from these skin conditions often have a low immunity. As a result of this, along with eczema they may also suffer from severe infections such as the herpes simplex virus – the same virus that causes cold sores. People with cold sores should not be allowed to kiss your child. There is no special problem with other viruses and the usual childhood immunizations are safe.
Another severe complication of eczema is impetigo. Impetigo is a bacterial infection. This type of infection of the skin can occur on top of the eczema, as a result of frequent scratching of the affected patches of skin. This will need antibiotic medicines as it is a case of a bacterial infection. Do not use disinfectants – they will only irritate the skin further.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is one of the most common forms of skin disease. This skin disease tends to run in families. The most common parts that are affected by the eczema is the front of the knees, elbows and the ankles. In some people this itchy skin rash can affect the entire body. In babies, the face tends to be commonly affected by eczema.
Eczema and dermatitis are terms that refer to an itchy skin rash which often occurs in families. Dermatitis, in simple terms, means inflammation of the dermis. Dermis is the layer of skin. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. This type of skin disease is most commonly seen in infants and children. The child or other family members may also present with a history of other skin diseases, allergies to certain substances, asthma or hay fever. Eczema, especially in children and babies causes considerable anxiety to the parents and the care givers who may then resort to a range of topical creams and applications that are readily available in supermarkets these days. However, it is extremely important to consult the health care professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
People affected by this condition often suffer from extreme dryness of the skin. The skin becomes dry, flaky and dull. In other cases there is intense itching of the skin. The person scratches the skin constantly. This is observed mainly in toddlers and children. The scratching in turn causes intense skin redness and dullness of the skin. The skin becomes inflamed. In extreme and severe cases of eczema, there is oozing of fluid from the affected patches of skin.
Children suffering from these skin conditions often have a low immunity. As a result of this, along with eczema they may also suffer from severe infections such as the herpes simplex virus – the same virus that causes cold sores. People with cold sores should not be allowed to kiss your child. There is no special problem with other viruses and the usual childhood immunizations are safe.
Another severe complication of eczema is impetigo. Impetigo is a bacterial infection. This type of infection of the skin can occur on top of the eczema, as a result of frequent scratching of the affected patches of skin. This will need antibiotic medicines as it is a case of a bacterial infection. Do not use disinfectants – they will only irritate the skin further.
Treatment for Rosacea
Mar 22nd
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin. It is not contagious. It occurs as a result of inflammation o
f the capillaries or the blood vessels that are present under the surface of facial skin. It causes redness and flushing of the face. It commonly affects the forehead and the cheeks. This condition is usually harmless unless it affects the eyes.
Diagnosis of Rosacea
There are no specific procedures or laboratory tests to diagnose rosacea. The doctor reaches a diagnosis after examining the facial skin and asking about the symptoms and factors that trigger the onset of these symptoms.
Rosacea treatment is mainly targeted at symptomatic relief
There is no permanent cure for rosacea. But the attacks of rosacea can be reduced simply by avoiding the trigger factors.
Treatment is mainly targeted at relief of the symptoms.
Many cases of rosacea are mild. The patchy redness on the face can usually be treated with the help of normal cosmetics or antibiotic creams and lotions.
These are used to relieve the inflammation and redness of the face. They are applied to the skin once or twice a day,
Oral antibiotics
Oral antibiotics are prescribed mainly because of their anti inflammatory properties. They are more effective in reducing the redness and inflammation of the skin as compared to the topical creams.
Treatment for Ocular Rosacea
When the rosacea affects the eyes and eyelids it is called ocular rosacea. It causes inflammation and redness of the eyes and the eyelids. There is burning pain and excessive lacrimation or watering of the eyes. The symptoms can be relieved by washing the eyes frequently with warm water. Some eye drops can be prescribed by the doctor in order to reduce the redness and burning pain of the eyes.
A rare but extremely serious complication of ocular rosacea is keratitis. Keratitis is the inflammation of cornea. If left untreated it may lead to corneal damage, resulting in visual impairment and even blindness. See a doctor urgently if you develop any eye pain or visual problems.
There is no cure for rosacea. Some steps can be taken in order to avoid the triggering factors that lead to the onset of rosacea.
Stress is one of the leading trigger factors in the onset of rosacea. Practicing relaxation techniques and meditation helps in reducing stress. If stress and embarrassment are a result of rosacea symptoms you can consider the option of talking to a professional counselor.
· Avoid exposure to sunlight. Use broad spectrum sunscreen while going out in the sun.
· Avoid hot and spicy food if that is one of the trigger factors for your rosacea.
· Avoid excessive intake of caffeine and alcohol if that leads to flare up of the symptoms of rosacea.
· Avoid the use of over the counter steroid creams unless they have been prescribed to you by your doctor.
· Avoid using saunas and hot baths. Also avoid getting too hot which may cause the existing symptoms to flare up.
Treatment for Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin. It is not contagious. It occurs as a result of inflammation of the capillaries or the blood vessels that are present under the surface of facial skin. It causes redness and flushing of the face. It commonly affects the forehead and the cheeks. This condition is usually harmless unless it affects the eyes.
Diagnosis of Rosacea
There are no specific procedures or laboratory tests to diagnose rosacea. The doctor reaches a diagnosis after examining the facial skin and asking about the symptoms and factors that trigger the onset of these symptoms.
Rosacea treatment is mainly targeted at symptomatic relief
There is no permanent cure for rosacea. But the attacks of rosacea can be reduced simply by avoiding the trigger factors. Treatment is mainly targeted at relief of the symptoms.
Many cases of rosacea are mild. The patchy redness on the face can usually be treated with the help of normal cosmetics or antibiotic creams and lotions.
Topical ointments
These are used to relieve the inflammation and redness of the face. They are applied to the skin once or twice a day,
Oral antibiotics
Oral antibiotics are prescribed mainly because of their anti inflammatory properties. They are more effective in reducing the redness and inflammation of the skin as compared to the topical creams.
Treatment for Ocular Rosacea
When the rosacea affects the eyes and eyelids it is called ocular rosacea. It causes inflammation and redness of the eyes and the eyelids. There is burning pain and excessive lacrimation or watering of the eyes. The symptoms can be relieved by washing the eyes frequently with warm water. Some eye drops can be prescribed by the doctor in order to reduce the redness and burning pain of the eyes.
A rare but extremely serious complication of ocular rosacea is keratitis. Keratitis is the inflammation of cornea. If left untreated it may lead to corneal damage, resulting in visual impairment and even blindness. See a doctor urgently if you develop any eye pain or visual problems.
There is no cure for rosacea. Some steps can be taken in order to avoid the triggering factors that lead to the onset of rosacea.
· Stress is one of the leading trigger factors in the onset of rosacea. Practicing relaxation techniques and meditation helps in reducing stress. If stress and embarrassment are a result of rosacea symptoms you can consider the option of talking to a professional counselor.
· Avoid exposure to sunlight. Use broad spectrum sunscreen while going out in the sun.
· Avoid hot and spicy food if that is one of the trigger factors for your rosacea.
· Avoid excessive intake of caffeine and alcohol if that leads to flare up of the symptoms of rosacea.
· Avoid the use of over the counter steroid creams unless they have been prescribed to you by your doctor.
· Avoid using saunas and hot baths. Also avoid getting too hot which may cause the existing symptoms to flare up.
Causes of Rosacea
Mar 19th
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that is characterized by facial redness and development of papules and pustules on the face.
The capillaries or the small blood vessels that are present beneath the surface of the skin become engorged. As a result of which they become visible on the skin in the form of small red lines. This gives the appearance of a permanent blush and facial redness. In this condition scarring does not occur.
The exact causes of rosacea are yet to be determined. But some of the risk factors are as follows:
Disorders of the facial capillaries causes rosacea
Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that are present in the surface of the skin. Inflammation of these facial capillaries leads to their enlargement. This results in a flushing appearance of the face and red patches. What causes the inflammation of the facial capillaries is not known. Some studies have suggested that the inflammation of the blood vessels may be caused as a result of abnormal immune reactions.
Rosacea is more common in fair skinned people
People with a Caucasian background and light skinned people have shown a higher incidence of rosacea compared to other races and ethnicity.
Rosacea is linked to higher numbers of demodex folliculorum
Demodex follicularum is a tiny mite that lives on the human skin. It is usually harmless and does not cause any problems.But in people affected by rosacea the presence of demodex follicularum has been found in significantly high numbers.
Rosacea is known to run in some families
Genetic predisposition may play a role in the development of rosacea. In many cases of rosacea there is usually a close relative who also suffers from the same condition.
Helicobacter pylori may cause rosacea
Some studies have suggested that H. pylori, a bacteria found in the intestine may be linked to the inflammation of the blood vessels of the face leading to the development of rosacea. This bacteria stimulates the production of bradykinin, a protein known to cause dilation of the blood vessels, thereby increasing the blood flow and leading to their enlargement.
Rosacea is triggered by a number of factors. Some of the common aggravating factors for rosacea are detailed as below:
- Hot foods and hot drinks may aggravate the existing symptoms
- Excessive intake of caffeine may worsen the facial erythema or redness.
- Dairy products have been linked to the attack of rosacea in some people.
- Hot baths and saunas may trigger rosacea symptoms.
- Consumption of spicy, greasy and oily food has been linked to the attacks of rosacea.
- Exposure to sunlight or bright light may bring on the inflammation and engorgement of the facial blood vessels thereby triggering the attack of rosacea.
- Use of corticosteroids is also associated with the triggering of the symptoms of rosacea.
- Symptoms of rosacea may appear after vigorous exercise
- Stress and anxiety flare up the inflammation of facial capillaries and cause redness of the face.
- Some acute medical conditions like fever, cough and cold are also the known trigger factors for rosacea.
What is Rosacea
Mar 18th
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition. It is a type of inflammatory condition of the skin and it typically affects the face. Acne rosacea is not contagious.
This condition is characterized by enlargement of the capillaries or the blood vessels present in surface of the skin. As a result of this the person suffering from this condition appears to have a permanent flush. The forehead, cheeks and chin may develop flushing, redness, red pimples and papules.
Who is at risk of developing rosacea
It primarily attacks Caucasians of mainly northwestern European descent. But rosacea is also common in people of other races and ethnic backgrounds.
Acne Rosacea
Acne rosacea is one of the types of rosacea and it can be commonly mistaken for acne. It has to be taken into account that rosacea and acne are two entirely different skin conditions. Acne is mainly caused by bacterial infections and the blocking of the sebaceous ducts that are present under the skin. Acne rosacea occurs when blood vessels just below the surface of the skin become enlarged, which in turn leads to blotchy red patches on the face. These patches of redness on the face have a tendency to fade and then appear again. Acne rosacea is a chronic skin condition and it becomes more permanent over a period of time.
Acne rosacea is mainly characterized by facial redness, papules, blotchy red patches and the appearance of a permanent flush on the cheeks and forehead. These papules are usually solid and hard to touch.
Vascular rosacea
Vascular rosacea is also one of the common types of rosacea. Blood vessels under the surface of the facial skin of the face may become engorged. These enlarged blood vessels may be visible through the skin in the form of small red lines. This skin condition is more common in women than men. The condition is due to swollen blood vessels in the face. This gives the facial skin a puffy, red and swollen appearance..
When the blood vessels under the surface of skin enlarge, they have a tendency to leak fluid. This fluid is accumulated under the surface of the skin over a period of time. This gives the face a swollen and puffy look. The affected parts of the face feel warm and uncomfortable. This condition may be associated with a burning pain.
Ocular Rosacea
When the inflammatory condition of the skin affects the eyes and the eyelids then this condition is diagnosed as ocular rosacea. There is inflammation of the eyelids resulting in redness and pustules. The person affected by acne rosacea often complains of redness, burning pain and irritation of eyes. There may be formation of crusts on the eyelids and the person may experience difficulty in opening the eyelids after a night’s sleep. Washing the eyes with warm water helps to relieve the burning pain and irritation of the eyes.
Ocular rosacea can affect the cornea and cause inflammation of cornea which is known as keratitis. It is a rare but serious complication and may lead to blindness.
