Common skin diseases and how to treat them Common skin diseases and how to treat them

Among the most common skin diseases are psoriasis, acne, herpes and vitiligo, among others. Some do not cause major discomfort. Others, however, can affect the person's quality of life.

In relation to treatment, it is usually topical. Although it varies according to the type and cause. In this regard, creams or ointments can be used. They also apply some home remedies and home care.

What are skin conditions?

To begin with, it's important to note that common skin conditions differ from symptoms and skin lesions. The first constitute a set of conditions of very diverse origin: bacterial or viral infections, or fungi, parasites, even hereditary factors.

On the other hand, there are pathologies such as systemic lupus erythematosus, which can affect various organs (kidneys, brain), as well as joints. The same applies to allergic reactions, which may be due to taking a medication, an insect bite, or even a spider bite.

Next, we will learn about the most common skin diseases, along with their symptoms, causes, and factors that contribute to their appearance or aggravation.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is caused by the loss of cells (melanocytes), which make skin pigment (melanin). Although it can affect anyone, it is more noticeable in those with dark skin. The cause is unknown. It is thought that there may be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

It's not contagious or serious. However, those who suffer from it may feel emotionally affected.

On the other hand, some studies warn of a possible increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in patients with vitiligo. Most prevalent among Caucasians.

Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions. It is common among people between the ages of 14 and 18. It is characterized by the presence of inflamed follicles, clogged with sebum, dead cells and bacteria.

Pimple appears on the face, neck, shoulders, back, and even arms. There are various genetic, environmental and personal factors that determine its severity. And although it usually subsides over time, acne also appears in adults.

Herpes

This disease is caused by an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, or HSV. There are several types:

In both cases there are lesions characterized by a red blister that burns or hurts. It then oozes a yellow fluid, before forming a scab. It can reappear in response to stressful situations.

Herpes zoster

This form is caused by reactivation of the varicella zoster virus. The most common symptoms of shingles are often similar to other herpes, with burning, tenderness, fluid-filled blisters, and scabs.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is caused by the aforementioned virus. However, it presents with fever, general malaise, sore throat, and the skin rash is more generalized. It's very contagious.

Impetigo

One of the most common skin diseases is impetigo. It is common in children.

It has an infectious origin and is caused by staphylococci (S. aureus or pyogenes). There are two types: blistering and non-blistering.

In impetigo, an irritating rash occurs around the mouth, chin, and nose, but also on other areas, such as the chest, back, and armpits. The blisters fill with fluid and burst, forming scabs.

Contact dermatitis

This dermatitis is allergic in origin. It occurs when the person comes into contact with a substance (allergen) that triggers a reaction. It causes itching, redness, dryness, and peeling.

Eczema

Another common skin disease is atopic dermatitis. This type of eczema recurs in people with already sensitized skin or in those who have a family or personal history of allergies, including food intolerances. It causes reddening of the skin, itching and is usually exacerbated under certain circumstances or with certain agents.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is due to an accumulation of dead skin cells, as their life cycle is accelerated. The most common symptom is scaling, which looks like white or silver patches on the scalp, elbows, knees, and other parts of the body. This can present with itching.

Athlete's Foot

Of the several common skin diseases, athlete's foot is characterized by beginning and developing in a particular area: the space between the toes. It is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes, which are the same ones that cause ringworm.

Its symptoms are as follows:

It is highly contagious by having direct contact with an infected person or by using a personal item, such as towels, shoes, or flip-flops. Likewise, wearing wet or tight socks or shoes, and walking barefoot in public places, favors its appearance.

Cellulitis (infection)

The bacterial skin infection known as cellulitis is a different condition from the alteration of adipose tissue of the same name, which only affects from the aesthetic point of view. On the contrary, this cellulite is a matter of care, which requires immediate medical attention.

It is caused by bacteria or fungi that infect the skin, entering through open wounds. It usually manifests with rashes, skin redness, swelling, tenderness, pain, a feeling of heat, and fever.

Actinic keratosis

Actinic keratosis is one of the most frequent causes of consultation in dermatology, which suggests that it is among the common skin diseases. It is characterized by being a rough and scaly patch with the appearance of a thick patch.

It can be about 2 centimeters or less. It appears mainly in frequently sun-exposed areas of the body. They are considered precancerous lesions.

Epidermoid cysts

These cysts are small keratin-filled lumps that grow under the skin. Sometimes they look like a boil, but without pus.

They can appear on the scalp, face, and neck. The larger ones are sensitive and hurt when pressed. They are not precancerous.

Scabies

Scabies, or scabies, is another common skin disease. It is caused by mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. It itches a lot. It is contagious, although its appearance is conditioned by poor hygiene.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is caused by the growth of abnormal cells, caused mainly by ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, it is usually more common in areas exposed to the sun (face, arms).

Among the first visible symptoms are usually the following:

Environmental and genetic factors interact in its appearance and development. Having a family history increases the risk of suffering from it. The most dangerous is melanoma.

Treatment of common skin diseases

The treatment to follow in these common skin diseases depends on the type, the cause and even the severity of it. Options include the following:

Care and prevention of common skin conditions

In addition to doctor-recommended treatments, some home remedies can help manage symptoms. As long as this is done under medical supervision and that they are not applied to replace conventional prescribed medication.

Such care includes baths with chamomile, oatmeal or other natural products; the use of aloe vera topically; apply local ice to reduce burning or inflammation.

Although not all common skin diseases can be prevented, it is possible to avoid the appearance of some by taking certain measures, such as proper hygiene, not having contact with substances that can irritate us and avoiding excessive exposure to the sun.