Types of Skin Diseases

The skin consists of the epidermis, dermis, and the subcutaneous tissues. The skin often gets affected by diseases, as it remains exposed to the pathogens and pollutants present in the environment. Acne, boils, rashes, skin allergies, eczema, and rosacea are some of the common skin ailments that could affect people of all age groups.

Acne is perhaps the most common skin problem that appears at the onset of puberty. The increased production of sebum by the sebaceous glands is the major contributing factor. It occurs when the hair follicles under the skin become clogged with sebum, dead skin, and dirt.

The consequent increase in bacterial activity results in inflammation of the skin, thereby giving rise to the formation of pimples. Consumption of certain food items might also aggravate acne. You must pay attention to the aspect of skin care in order to get rid of acne. Skin exfoliation too can help as can chemical peels but under proper medical care.

Eczema is a term given to a variety of skin conditions. It is concerned mainly with the upper layer of the skin. It is characterized by symptoms such as formation of red bumps or skin rashes, itching, scaling, crusting, flaking, weeping, and inflammation of the skin.

Different types of eczema include atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, irritant dermatitis, seborrheic eczema, nummular eczema, and dyshidrotic eczema. People with a family history of eczema are susceptible. Other factors include contact with allergens or irritants.

 Emollients that help prevent skin dryness may be prescribed by a dermatologist to alleviate the symptoms of eczema.

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a localized viral infection which affects one side of the body. It causes painful blisters. It is caused by the Varicella zoster virus, which is the virus that causes chickenpox. It stays dormant in the body.

 It could get reactivated by stress. People with a compromised immune system or those who are taking immunosuppressants are at a greater risk. When the virus gets reactivated, rashes appear. The affected individual experiences burning, tingling, and throbbing sensation. Topical application of antiviral medication is recommended for the treatment.

Oral herpes and genital herpes are caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) respectively. Oral herpes is characterized by the development of cold sores or fluid-filled blisters along with symptoms such as itching, fever, weakness, and fatigue.

Genital herpes causes fluid-filled blisters around the genitals that appear within 2-20 days of contracting the infection. They usually subside within 2-10 days without treatment. Medication is advised to reduce the pain and prevent secondary infections. These conditions are contagious, and the virus can get transmitted through person-to-person contact.

Vitiligo is a disease that is characterized by the formation of white patches on the skin. This is caused due to decrease in the number of melanocytes, which are cells that produce the skin pigment called melanin. Apart from the cosmetic impact, it is a harmless condition.

 Individuals with a family history or those affected by pernicious anemia, Addison's disease, and diabetes are at a greater risk of developing this condition. It usually appears as a white patch that grows larger in size and spreads across the body.

 If the treatment is started early, the prognosis is good. Treatment options vary from topical applications to internal medicines and even radiation therapy.

This skin disorder is characterized by the development of a large rash that is called herald patch. After a few days, rashes appear on the chest, back, arm, and the legs. The rashes usually start from the middle of the body and take a pine tree branch like shape.

The rashes are oval-shaped and pink or pale red in color. They might be scaly and itchy. The cause for pityriasis rosea is unknown, but it is a viral infection which is non-contagious.

To confirm pityriasis rosea, a doctor may go in for a skin biopsy or a blood test. Usually, anti-viral medications are prescribed along with ointments and creams to alleviate the discomfort.

Psoriasis is chronic skin condition that is characterized by the development of thick patches of itch, red skin that are covered with white or silvery scales due to the rapid growth of skin cells. It is believed that this condition occurs due to an immune response.

These patches usually appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet. It is believed that stress, infection, dry skin, and the use of certain drugs can worsen the condition. The treatment involves the topical application of corticosteroid creams/ointments and phototherapy. The affected person should keep the skin clean and moisturized.

This ailment usually occurs in older adults. It is a pale brownish or blackish scaly growth which is raised over the skin. It is akin to skin cancer, but is not malignant. It could cause itching. Over exposure to the sun, heredity, and high amount of estrogen in the body are also linked to seborrheic keratoses. Women may develop this condition during pregnancy. Though this condition is harmless, it is advisable to see a doctor.

Following a skin care regimen can certainly lower the risk of certain skin problems. However, it would be best to consult a dermatologist in case of recurring skin problems.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a dermatologist.