SKIN PROBLEMS IN ADULTS

Skin problems in adults can cause symptoms like itching, burning, swelling, redness and strange spots. Most skin problems are just temporary and can be treated if they are given attention right away; however severe skin problems can be life-threatening.

Individuals can be affected by hundreds of skin problems that can have the same signs and symptoms with each other. Thus, it is necessary to understand and be familiar with each skin condition.

TYPES

Permanent skin problems include:

Temporary skin problems include:

  • Acne
  • Athlete’s foot
  • Candidiasis
  • Cold sore
  • Fungal nail infection
  • Hives
  • Warts

Internal skin problems includes:

  • Carbuncle
  • Cellulitis

SYMPTOMS

Signs and symptoms to watch out in a possible skin problem include:

  • Painful and itchy skin rash
  • Discolored patches of skin
  • Cracked and dry skin
  • Open sores or lesions
  • Skin is peeling
  • Raised bumps that are red or white
  • Scaly or rough skin
  • Uncommon shape of moles
  • Softening or hardening of skin
  • Skin discoloration
  • Ulcers

DIAGNOSIS

Your dermatologist will request some tests to diagnose your skin problem.These tests may include:

Patch testing: This test can help examine skin allergies. An adhesive patch will be placed on your back and left for a couple of hours to find out if there are any skin reactions.

Skin biopsy: This test can diagnose a benign skin disorder or skin cancer. Skin around the affected area will be removed and examined in the laboratory.

Culture: This test can identify the microorganisms (bacteria, fungus, or virus) that are causing the infection. Affected skin areas, hair, or nails are removed and cultured to discover viruses, bacteria or fungi.

TREATMENT

Treatments for different skin problems include the following:

  • Antibiotics
  • Antihistamines
  • Laser therapy
  • Medicated creams and ointments
  • Targeted prescription medications
  • Vitamin or steroid injections

Some skin problems may also appear without proper treatment, especially those which are temporary skin conditions. However, these skin problems may reoccur because of some triggers such as stress, allergies and illness.

You can frequently treat skin problems that are temporary and cosmetic with:

  • Good hygiene practices
  • Medicated makeup
  • Over-the-counter skin care products
  • Small lifestyle adjustments, such as making certain dietary changes

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