SKIN DISEASES/DISORDERS (CONCLUSION)

RARE SKIN DISEASES

Many rare skin diseases are genetic, meaning you inherit them. Some rare skin diseases include:

Actinic prurigo (AP): Usually pink in color but can have a brown, tan, or gray base Thick, scaly, or crusty skin patch. Appears on parts of the body that receive a lot of sun exposure (hands, arms, face, scalp, and neck). The size is typically less than 2 cm or about the size of a pencil eraser.

Vitiligo: Loss of pigment in the skin due to autoimmune destruction of the cells that give skin its color

Focal pattern: loss of skin color in only a few small areas that may merge together

Segmental pattern: depigmentation on one side of the body

Premature graying of the scalp and/or facial hair

Argyria: Changes in skin color due to silver buildup in your body.

Chromhidrosis: Colored sweat.

Epidermolysis bullosa: A connective tissue disorder that causes fragile skin that blisters and tears easily.

Harlequin ichthyosis: Thick, hard patches or plates on the skin that are present at birth.

Lamellar ichthyosis: Waxy skin layer that sheds in the first few weeks of life, revealing scaly, red skin.

Necrobiosis lipoidica: Rash on the lower legs that can develop into ulcers (sores).

CAUSES OF SKIN DISEASES

Certain lifestyle factors can lead to the development of skin disease. Underlying health conditions may affect your skin too. Common causes of skin diseases include;

· Bacteria trapped in your pores or hair follicles.
· Illnesses affecting the thyroid, immune system, kidneys, and other body systems
· Contact with environmental triggers, such as allergens or another person’s skin.
· Genetics
· Fungus or parasites living on your skin.
· Medications, such as the ones that treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
· Viruses.
· Diabetes.
· Sun.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SKIN DISEASES?

Skin disease symptoms vary significantly, depending on what condition you have. Skin changes are not always due to skin diseases. For example, you may get a blister from wearing ill-fitting shoes. However, when skin changes show up with no known cause, they may be linked to an underlying condition which may indicate the presence of an actual skin condition that requires treatment. Generally, skin diseases may cause:

· Discolored skin patches (abnormal pigmentation ).
· Dry skin
· Open sores, lesions,, or ulcers.
· Peeling skin.
· Rashes, possibly with itchiness or pain.
· Red, white or pus-filled bumps.
· Scaly or rough skin
· changes in mole color or size
· ulcer
· a loss of skin pigment
· excessive flushing

HOW ARE SKIN DISEASES TREATED?

Some skin diseases are not preventable. For example, there is no way to change your genetics or prevent an autoimmune disorder.

Many skin diseases respond well to treatment. Depending on the condition, a dermatologist (doctor specializing in the skin) or other healthcare providers, may recommend;

· Antibiotics (Medicines that can kill the bacteria causing cellulitis and other skin infections).
· Antihistamines (Oral or topical medicines can block histamine, a substance that causes itching).
· Laser skin resurfacing.
· Medicated creams, ointments, or gels.
· Moisturizers.
· Oral medications (taken by mouth).
· Steroid pills, creams, or injections.
· Surgical procedures.
· Vitamin or steroid injection
· Antiviral drugs (Medicines can suppress the activity of the herpes virus, reducing symptoms).
· Antifungal drugs (Topical creams can cure most fungal skin infections. Occasionally, oral medicines may be needed).

You may also reduce symptoms of skin conditions by making lifestyle changes:

· Avoid or limit certain foods, such as sugar or dairy, if your healthcare provider suggests it.
· Manage stress.
· Practice good hygiene, including proper skin care.
· Avoid sharing utensils, personal items, or cosmetics.
· Disinfect objects you use in public spaces, such as gym equipment.
· Drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious diet.
· Limit contact with irritants or harsh chemicals.
· Sleep seven to eight hours per night.

· Use sun protection to prevent sunburn and other sun damage Staying out of the sun is the best way to avoid sun damage. Other precautions include using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding sunlight in the middle of the day when UV rays are strongest.

· Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
· Good hygiene practices
· Dietary changes
· Avoid excessive alcohol use and smoking.

DO SKIN DISEASES USUALLY RETURN AFTER TREATMENT?

Not all skin disorders respond to treatment. Some conditions go away without treatment. People with permanent skin conditions often go through periods of severe symptoms. Sometimes people can force incurable conditions into remission. However, most skin conditions reappear due to certain triggers, such as stress or illness.

Many skin conditions are chronic (long-lasting). Treatment can reduce symptoms, but you may need to continue medication or other treatments to keep symptoms at bay.

SKIN DISORDERS IN CHILDREN

Skin disorders are common in children. Children can experience many of the same skin conditions as adults. Infants and toddlers are also at risk for diaper-related skin problems. Since children have more frequent exposure to other children and germs, they may also develop skin disorders that rarely occur in adults. Many childhood skin problems disappear with age, but children can also inherit permanent skin disorders. In most cases, doctors can treat childhood skin disorders with topical creams, medicated lotions, or condition-specific drugs.

Common childhood skin disorders include eczema, diaper rash, measles, acne, hives, etc.

INFECTIOUS AND NON-INFECTIOUS SKIN DISORDERS

Infectious skin disorders such as Chickenpox is best treated by vaccination, and non-infectious skin disorders such as acne and atopic dermatitis are sometimes preventable. Prevention techniques vary depending on the condition.

Both types of skin disorders can be prevented by following these tips;

Infectious skin disorders;

· Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently.
· Avoid sharing eating utensils and drinking glasses with other people.
· Avoid direct contact with the skin of other people who have an infection.
· Clean things in public spaces, such as gym equipment, before using them.
· Don’t share personal items, such as blankets, hairbrushes, or swimsuits.
· Sleep for at least seven hours each night.
· Drink plenty of water.
· Avoid excessive physical or emotional stress.
· Eat a nutritious diet.
· Get vaccinated for infectious skin conditions, such as chickenpox.

Non-infectious skin disorders;

· Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and water every day.
· Use moisturizer.
· Avoid environmental and dietary allergens.
· Avoid contact with harsh chemicals or other irritants.
· Sleep for at least seven hours each night.
· Drink plenty of water.
· Eat a healthy diet.
· Protect your skin from excessive cold, heat, and wind.

Learning about proper skin care and treatment for skin disorders can be very important for skin health. Some conditions require the attention of a doctor, while you can address others safely at home. Stay tuned always to learn about your symptoms or condition and talk with your doctor to determine the best treatment methods.