Symptoms | Hidradenitis Suppurativa

When a Rash is More Than Just a Rash

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Skin rashes are common and will occur for a number of reasons. They can be caused by a reaction to certain types of material, or can be a response to a food allergy. Sometimes even skin creams or cosmetics can cause these flare ups. For the most part they are just irritating and some will eventually go away on their own. There are occasions, however, when a skin rash is a sign of something more serious.

Dangerous Skin Rashes

It is never wise to simply ignore any rash no matter how harmless it may seem. Seek the advice of a doctor once a rash appears, especially if you can pinpoint no reason for its appearance. Rashes, whether they show up on one part of the body or not should be reason for concern. Signs that could point to a serious health condition include:

• A rash that is accompanied by blisters and are accompanied by itching or not.
• Itching, burning or pain in the irritated area could be a sign of the disease called Tungiasis. This is caused by fleas.
• Thickening of the skin which could be a sign of Pediculosis caused by body lice.
• Any rash that causes the skin to become scaly in appearance.
• Burning or stabbing pain in the affected area which could be a sign of shingles.
• Any rash that affects the mucus membranes, particularly the mouth and nose area. This could point to toxic shock syndrome as well as other dangerous conditions.

Lesions and rashes that produce secretions should be checked by a doctor as soon as possible. If the cause of the rash is something common such as an encounter with poison ivy, there is no real reason to worry. Do not attempt to treat a skin rash that displays any of the above mentioned symptoms on your own.

Filed Under: Health, Risk Factors, Symptoms | Tagged: Tagged With: Health, Itch, Rash, Skin

Learn More About Psoriasis

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Psoriasis is a condition that does not seriously affect the quality of life, but can nonetheless be distressing for sufferers. Some people have more severe types of the condition that can lead to other problems. While it is a lifelong skin condition there are treatment options available that provide some relief. Armed with the right information, you will be better able to deal with this condition.

What is Psoriasis?

This skin affliction is caused by the rapid growth of skin cells. This abnormal growth is a response to a malfunction of the immune system. Simply put, excess skin is produced in the affected areas. It usually presents as scaly patches that can occur anywhere on the body although the elbow and knee areas tend to be most affected. Some sufferers have psoriasis over their entire body.

Not much is known about what cases this excess growth of skin resulting in psoriasis. Experts believe there may be a genetic link but this has yet to be fully explored. What is certain, however, is that people with the condition will experience recurrent flare-ups and much appreciated dormant periods. It is also known that certain external factors can cause outbreaks. These include:

• Stress, especially that caused by high pressure jobs
• Alcohol consumption
• Certain types of medication (this is called drug induced psoriasis)
• Smokers may also experience frequent flare-ups

Symptoms and Related Conditions

Typically what are seen as symptoms of psoriasis can also be regarded as the effects of the disease. The thick scaly patches are quite distinctive and easily identifiable. Some tend to be red in appearance while others have a white or silvery look. Severe cases of the condition can result in joint problems. When the joint is affected, the resulting condition is referred to as psoriatic arthritis.

Treatment

Some patients show an improvement with exposure to mild sunlight. There are also creams which effectively help with controlling psoriasis. The downside is that stopping their use sometimes results in another flare-up. Psoriasis, while an unsightly skin condition, is not contagious and definitely not life threatening.

Filed Under: Health, Risk Factors, Symptoms | Tagged: Tagged With: Arthritis, Psoriasis, Skin, Skin Disorders

Protecting Children From Scabies

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Anyone can develop this condition, but children are more prone due to their often close interaction with each other. It is also referred to as body lice, meaning the tiny mites that burrow into and lay eggs in the skin. It is not life threatening, but it can cause severe itching and discomfort. Scabies tends to affect particular areas of the body such as the webs of the fingers. Other favorite areas of this mite include the buttocks and the genital area and under the breasts.

Signs of Scabies

This is a highly contagious condition. While it does often present signs they are not always obvious. Even the most vigilant parent can end up having to deal with an itchy child. To keep the problem from causing too much discomfort, be aware of the following signs:

•The appearance of tiny red bumps on hands and arms

•Constant scratching especially at the buttocks area

•Young children will show signs of scabies on the feet, neck and face

•Thin lines where the mites have burrowed

Treating Scabies

Obviously it makes sense to keep your child away from someone you know is infected. Discourage them from sharing clothes and other personal items with others. Someone can carry the mite for a month or more without even knowing it. If your child does end up with scabies don’t panic. While the itching does not let up for long it is still quite treatable.

Creams like permethrin can be used to treat infestation. Scabies treatment can only be obtained with a prescription. Use fabric sprays on furniture the child comes in contact with. Washing clothes and linens in hot water will help to prevent a reoccurrence. Some children will get temporary relief from itching when given antihistamines.

Filed Under: Health, Risk Factors, Symptoms, Treatments and Drugs | Tagged: Tagged With: Itch, Scabies, Skin Disorders

Dealing With Hives

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The term hives refers to a common condition where the skin breaks out into bumps. Less commonly known by its medical name urticaria, it causes itching which can last for hours. It is often regarded as a food allergy but it can be triggered by other factors as well. While it does cause discomfort this usually ceases within a few hours. Aside from skin irritation and itching there are other potentially serious associated condition to be aware of.

Known Hive Triggers

Strawberries are well known to be a major cause of hives among sufferers. Other foods which can lead to this problem are nuts, chocolate, eggs and shellfish. Other things that can lead to flare-ups include:

•Insect bites
•Drugs such as aspirin
•Stress

Causes for Concern

Flare up can even lead to death depending on the severity of the allergic reaction. In extreme cases the allergic response can be so severe it can affect the throat and lungs. This can lead to difficulty breathing and there is the possibility of the person becoming asphyxiated. Once anyone who is known to suffer from hives shows any sign of breathing difficulty they should immediately be taken to the hospital.

Easing the Discomfort

When the condition is not severe soaking in cold water or applying a cold compress can help. Adding cornstarch to bath water can also relieve the itching. Antihistamines are sometimes used to provide as well.

The rashes caused by hives usually disappear after the flare-up has ceased. Sufferers can take their own health in hand by keeping detailed record of their daily food intake. Once there is a breakout it can usually be traced back to what has been consumed. Once known triggers are avoided, flare-ups are usually greatly reduced.

Filed Under: Health, Risk Factors, Symptoms | Tagged: Tagged With: Allergy, Disease, Health

Should Eczema Be Cause For Concern?

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The term eczema is often used to refer to a variety of skin problems. It is not unusual for people to confuse other skin issues with this condition. It affects the outer layer of skin which usually becomes irritated. There are actually various forms of eczema, some more common than others.

Types of Eczema

Some types of this condition affect certain parts of the body. While the degree of irritation will vary, there are usually some traits that they have in common. The more common types include:

•Contact dermatitis: this results from coming in contact with something which causes an allergic reaction. Possible irritants include chemicals, household cleaning solutions, jewelry or certain plants such as poison ivy.
•Atopic eczema: this is very common among children and is believed to have a hereditary link. Itching is experienced in more severe cases.
•Xerotic eczema: this is often influenced by dry conditions. People with naturally dry skin tend to be more prone to developing this type. It can worsen considerably in winter months, and the skin takes on a cracked appearance.

Treating Eczema

People with dry skin should be vigilant in the use of moisturizers. Steroids are sometimes administered to provide relief from eczema symptoms. Since there is no cure for the condition the aim is to alleviate any discomfort and to keep it from spreading. Steroids are not ideal for long term use.

Creams can also be purchased over the counter which can help in controlling this skin problem. Some sufferers seek relief from itching through the use of antihistamines which are also easily obtained. It is important to remember that even when the signs have disappeared this does not mean the problem is gone. Under certain conditions eczema can flare up at any time. While it is annoying and sometimes socially distressing, it does not seriously impact quality of life.

Filed Under: Health, Symptoms, Tests and Diagnosis | Tagged: Tagged With: Conditions and Diseases, Eczema, Health

What is Acne Vulgaris?

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This very common skin condition is often simply referred to as acne. The term ‘vulgaris’ actually translates to mean ‘common’, which indicates that it does affects a lot of people. It is characterized by pimples and blackheads and mild inflammation of the skin, especially on the face. In some cases the affected area can become tender or painful. For most people it is simply a source of embarrassment when the condition is pronounced. The back and chest may sometimes show signs of acne.

What Causes Acne?

This condition tends to make its first appearance during adolescence in the vast majority of cases. This results due to the hormonal changes that take place in the body. The pores or follicles become blocked with the natural oils produced by the body. Acne is believed to have a genetic component like so many other skin conditions.

People with naturally oily skin often have to be more vigilant in caring for their skin.
Acne can continue into adulthood and can at times be triggered by a number of factors including:

•Greasy/fatty foods
•Medications
•Reactions to cosmetics
•Stress

In some instances the skin can become infected, especially if it is constantly picked at. Acne often leads to permanent scarring or darkening of the skin. Some skin treatments have proven successful at reducing the signs of scarring. Sometimes scars also become less evident over time. Sometimes deep pits may develop in the skin due to severity of the condition or recurring acne.

Some people with really bad cases of acne are treated with antibiotics. There are many products sold over the counter which can help to control the condition. While it does not always help, a diligent skin care regimen is generally recommended. Starting treatment as soon as the first signs of acne appears is a good idea.

Filed Under: Health, Symptoms, Tests and Diagnosis | Tagged: Tagged With: Acne vulgaris, Pimple, Skin Care

Could Your Stomach Pains Mean Diverticulitis?

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Almost everyone experiences stomach pain at some time or other. Often the pain goes away, but sometimes it can be attributed to a serious medical condition. One of these is diverticulitis.

The disease is fairly common and tends to affect the large intestine. It leads to the growth of what is known as a diverticulum. This is a pouch that appears in the intestinal wall. There are no changes in the digestive system as these pouches develop, but once they form they can cause a number of problems.

What are the Signs?

Diverticulitis shares some symptoms with more dangerous conditions such as rectal cancer. It is only after a thorough examination that a diagnosis is reached. Medical advice should be sought if any of the following symptoms are experienced:

•Stomach pain after meals
•Bloating
•Changes in normal bowel routine
•Diarrhea or constipation

The pain associated with the condition usually occurs on the left side. It can sometimes be quite debilitating. There is a small risk that the growths could begin to bleed. If this happens, a serious infection could develop. The sufferer could also become anemic due to bleeding.

What Causes Diverticulitis?

Age is thought to play a role in this condition, as the intestinal walls often weaken as people get older. Studies have shown that people who consume high fiber diets are less prone to developing this illness. Excessive consumption of red meat and fat could also lead to the condition.

Relief can be had by making changes to the diet. Sometimes patients are treated with antibiotics. When the condition is advanced, surgery is often necessary. An examination and various tests will help determine what kind of treatment is warranted.

Filed Under: Health, Symptoms, Treatments and Drugs | Tagged: Tagged With: Digestive Disorders, Health, Intestine

What are Boils?

These little pesky infections below the skin are not only unattractive, but they can be quite painful too. There are a number of different types of boils (abscesses) such as hidradenitis suppurativa, carbuncles and cystic acne. The type of boil is dependent on how it forms. Boils result from a number of factors such as:

•Foreign matter that is lodged under the skin. This can happen when a splinter becomes embedded in the skin.
•Closed pores result in cystic acne. This type of boil tends to affect teenagers. Unlike acne, this boil affects skin tissues that are deeper than the surface of the skin.
•Ingrown hair is responsible for hidradenitis suppurativa. This type of boil is frequently found under the arms or groin area. It often affects the faces of African American men due to ingrown bread.

Prevention and Treatment

While not completely preventable, many types of boils can be avoided by practicing good hygiene. In other cases, medication can be prescribed to prevent a reoccurrence of abscesses such as hidradenitis suppurativa.

Treating boils takes a combination approach in some cases. For the simplest types of boils, home treatment is best choice. For small boils that are just forming applying a heat compress to the area is recommended. Some boils have to be lanced to drain the affected area and promote healing. Lancing or piercing the boil is not helpful for small boils that are not well formed.

Surgical intervention or lancing is most common with hidradenitis suppurativa. This can also be done for cystic acne. Sometimes scarring can be so bad that plastic surgery is required.

The good thing is that most types of boils are harmless even if somewhat painful. Persons with certain types of illnesses such as diabetes should get medical assistance if they develop a boil.

Filed Under: Health, Risk Factors, Symptoms | Tagged: Tagged With: Abscess, Boil, Conditions and Diseases, Skin Disorders

Getting Help for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are veins that protrude abnormally, usually having an unusual pattern. They are most prominent on the back of the legs, especially at the top of the calves. Some men have them in the scrotum; this condition is known as varicocele. It results from an enlargement of the veins in that area. They can also affect other parts of the body such as the face. These veins are larger than normal and can sometimes be quite painful. Some people with varicose veins also experience itching, but scratching them can lead to problems.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

The main cause of this problem is valves in the veins that become damaged. When this happens, blood that would normally flow upwards to the heart begins to pool in the veins. This can be due to a number of factors such as:

•Being overweight
•Pregnancy
•Aging
•Occupations that require long periods of sitting or standing

Treatment Options

Wearing special compression stockings has been shown to improve the appearance of varicose veins. Generally people who are more active tend to be less prone to developing them. This does not mean that exercise is an effective treatment option. Other ways to reduce or get rid of these veins include:

• Surgery which involves removing parts of the affected veins
• Medicine can be injected into the veins causing them to shrink (sclerotherapy)
• Laser treatments

Some doctors may resort to other procedures like cryosurgery. The discomfort experienced from varicose veins can sometimes be alleviated by elevating the legs periodically. Skin ulcers can develop especially if the area is scratched constantly. The danger is that these ulcers can become cancerous over time. Treatment is sometimes covered by health insurance but this depends on the difficulty being experienced. Persons with varicose veins often seek help from vein specialists called phlebologists.

Filed Under: Health, Symptoms, Tests and Diagnosis | Tagged: Tagged With: Cardiovascular Disorders, Conditions and Diseases, Health, Varicose veins

Diet and Diabetes Control

Diabetes mellitus or diabetes as it is commonly called is a metabolism related disorder. This refers to a condition where the body has too much sugar in the blood. When someone has diabetes the body does one of two things:

1.It produces too little insulin which is needed to breakdown sugar.
2.The insulin produced by the body is not used properly to help in digestion.

There are two main types of this disease, Diabetes Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 is also known as juvenile-onset diabetes. There is also a third type, Gestational Diabetes, which affects only pregnant women.

Everyone knows that diet plays a role in the development of this condition. In the same way, the diet plays a significant role in its management. A doctor will normally explain the role of food in controlling diabetes. They also recommend consultation with a dietitian to help develop a diet plan. The dietitian will also help the diabetic understand how portion sizes help to control the illness.

Some basic guidelines for diabetes control with diet include:

-Reduction of daily caloric intake. One recommendation is to restrict calories from carbohydrates to between 50 to 60 percent. There are various schools of thoughts on this, with some advocates recommending up to 75 percent others 40 percent or less.
Meals should consist primarily of good protein such as chicken, salmon and tuna. Plant-based proteins from beans and nuts should also be included in the diet.
Reduction in the consumption of saturated fats and foods which boost cholesterol levels.
Consumption of high fiber foods.

Maintaining a proper diet is vital to the management of diabetes. The focus should be on eating a balanced diet in the right proportions. All this should be topped off with exercise and where necessary, following directions concerning medication.

Filed Under: Health, Symptoms, Treatments and Drugs | Tagged: Tagged With: Conditions and Diseases, Diabetes, Health