There are many different types of skin ailments and we are able to treat many skin disorders and diseases in our office.
Depending on the condition, there may be a very many different symptoms indicating disorders and diseases of the skin. Skin is a very large organ of the body. The skin has up to seven layers of ectodermal tissue and guards the underlying muscles, bones, ligaments and internal organs. Some common symptoms of skin problems include: redness, rash, hives, itching, oozing and crusting. Chronic conditions such as acne and psoriasis may occur over and over again, while acute conditions such as an allergic reaction may occur less often.
Some of the common disorders and conditions we treat in our office include:
- Acne – the most common skin disease affects millions of people and can take both a physical and emotional toll. The disease occurs when hair follicles become blocked which then traps oils in the layers of skin. The oils become a source of food for bacteria that allows it to multiply. Pimples and pustules are caused when pus and other debris collect inside the follicle.
- Allergic reactions – many allergic reactions present as a rash on the skin. This can either be from a direct contact with something allergic to the skin or with an allergic reaction to something ingested or in the environment.
- Cuts, abrasions and wounds – our doctors can treat many different types of wounds or injuries to the skin.
- Eczema – also known as atopic dermatitis, is a non-contagious skin disease of unknown cause resulting in red, flaky, itchy patches of skin to form on various parts of the body, often symmetrically (for instance, on both elbows). While eczema sometimes occurs during childhood then resolves during early adulthood many people can experience symptoms throughout their lives.
- Fungal or yeast infections – fungal or yeast infections on the skin may appear in the groin area, the feet, finger or toenails, the scalp or other parts of the body that are often warm or damp.
- Moles and Skin Cancer Screening – Moles are one of the most common things to find on human skin. Almost every adult has at least a mole or a few. Moles may change in color over time. If new moles appear, or if moles change shape or color, it is a good idea though to have your physician take a look at it. Some changes in color and shape may be signs of skin cancer. Our doctors can do a full skin cancer screening in our office. Early detection of skin cancer can be life saving!
- Psoriasis – is a chronic skin disorder that develops when the skin replacement cycle speeds up and forces the extra skin cells to the surface where they build up and form plaques (patchy areas). Like acne, psoriasis requires ongoing care to keep it under control.
- Shingles – a reactivation or “awakening” of the chicken pox virus, shingles can affect anyone. It is a condition with a telltale rash, usually a cluster of blisters, that may be quite painful or uncomfortable.
- Warts – warts may occur almost anywhere on the body and to anyone. They are caused by a virus that comes in contact with the skin, usually where there is broken skin. They are highly treatable.
Our doctors can treat any of your common skin conditions
Images of Common Skin Conditions
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TREATMENT
Treating skin conditions often requires some effort to follow through at home. Preventive measures can be very helpful to maintain healthy skin and in preventing flair ups of common conditions.
Some acute skin conditions are able to be managed with topical preparations or oral medications. Your doctor will assess you and make the appropriate recommendations for such conditions as eczema and allergic dermatitis, for example.
Acne and psoriasis require ongoing management and care in order to be kept under control and to prevent breakouts and flareups. These treatments can change over time as the disease and your needs evolve. There are medicated cleansers, solutions and ointments that the doctor may prescribe to help treat these types of skin problems as well as certain oral medications that may be helpful.
In general, when dealing with skin conditions, it is wise to moisturize your skin at least twice a day with oil free moisturizing creams, ointments and lotions that seal in moisture.
Identify, reduce and avoid triggers that worsen the condition – leaving sweat on the skin for a long time, stress, obesity, drying soaps, detergents, dust and pollen, or food allergies.
Overly long hot showers can damage skin and cause flair ups of many skin conditions. Take shorter baths or showers, limiting baths and showers to 10 to 15 minutes and using warm, rather than hot, water.
Use mild detergent and scent free soaps that will not dry out or damage your skin.
Dry yourself carefully – after bathing gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel and apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp.
