Common Skin Disorders: Causes And Treatment Options

Skin disorders are quite common. In fact, nearly everyone experiences a skin disorder at some point in their life. Some skin disorders are minor and can be treated with over-the-counter medication, while others may require the expertise of a licensed dermatologist.

Here are some of the most common skin disorders you should know about.

Eczema

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Eczema most often appears in early childhood, and the symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms include

• Dry, red, itchy skin
• Weeping sores
• Rash on knees, elbows, and scalp

In some cases, eczema may also lead to secondary infections. When the skin is damaged by eczema, it becomes more vulnerable to bacteria and other pathogens. In addition, the constant scratching can introduce harmful bacteria into the skin. Once an infection takes hold, it can be difficult to treat and may require oral antibiotics. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

If you suspect that you or your child may have eczema, consult a board-certified dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. While there is no cure for eczema, effective treatments can help control the symptoms and prevent secondary infections.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic and progressive disorder that primarily affects the central third of the face, specifically the nose, forehead, cheeks, and chin. Early signs of rosacea are often mistaken for sunburn, acne, or even just a skin reaction.

The most common symptom of rosacea is facial redness, which can come and go. Other symptoms may include small red bumps or pustules, dryness and scaling of the skin, burning or stinging sensations, and enlarged blood vessels. Rosacea generally begins in middle-aged adults and affects more women than men.

There is no cure for rosacea, but available treatment options can help manage the symptoms. Common treatments include topical creams and gels, oral antibiotics, and laser therapy.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin defect that causes the formation of scaly, itchy plaques. The most common type of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, appears as raised, red patches. They sometimes have a silvery white scale around them.

Psoriasis can also take the form of pustules, or small blisters filled with pus; erythrodermic psoriasis, which causes the entire skin surface to become red and inflamed. On the other hand, guttate psoriasis can present itself as small, tear-shaped sores.

In addition to causing physical discomfort, psoriasis can lead to mental distress and social isolation. Fortunately, many effective treatments are available, including topical creams and ointments, oral medication, light therapy, and biologic drugs. Look into dermatologists near you for more information.

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