Acne Treatment
Acne is the term used to describe blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or any clogged pores that occur on the face or body.
Most acne problems occur during the adolescent years, but they can sometimes occur before or even after the teenage years. Acne can often play a detrimental effect on one’s self-esteem because it ruins the natural beauty of a person’s facial features. Normally, minor acne will come and go on its own, recurring more frequently between the ages of adolescence and becoming less thereafter. Occasionally, acne can continually cause problems for a person later in life. More severe cases of acne can lead to more serious, permanent scarring.
There are a number of techniques available today to treat acne. Doctors can recommend habitual changes in a person’s lifestyle to help reduce the reoccurrence of breakouts. Medications are also often used to lessen the severity of outbreaks. Advanced laser therapies and chemical peels are also available to treat acne. There are a number of oral and topical medications available to treat mild to moderate acne.
While the ingredients and directions vary from product to product, most of these medications involve either decreasing your skin’s natural oil production or removing dirt and oil from the targeted area. This will lessen the severity and frequency of acne outbreaks.
Eczema Treatment
Eczema is sometimes called dermatitis.
It is actually a group of skin conditions that can affect you at any age. It is not contagious but can be uncomfortable because it makes the skin hot and itchy. In severe cases, it can even cause bleeding.
There are several types of eczema and each type requires different treatment methods. Eczema can occur because of irritation, allergic reaction or hereditary conditions.
The most common variety is atopic eczema, which can be treated with steroids to reduce inflammation and creams to relieve the itchiness and dryness. In some cases, light treatments and dietary changes have been shown to help.
While there is no cure for eczema, many people grow out of it. In addition, using the proper medications and staying clear of substances that cause eczema to flare up can greatly reduce your discomfort and can lessen the severity of the condition.
Only your doctor can correctly diagnose and analyze your condition. It is important to consult with your physician to make sure that you receive the most effective and efficient treatment possible.
Psoriasis Treatment
Psoriasis is a chronic disorder that creates itchy, red marks on the body.
These areas form multi-layered “scales” that vary in severity. Psoriasis can occur at any age in both males and females. It is not contagious, though there does seem to be a hereditary connection. It is not a life-threatening condition, and in most cases, people who have mild symptoms may not even know that they have psoriasis.
Cuts, scratches, infections, and dry skin seem to cause flare-ups. In addition, lack of sun exposure and certain medications may cause psoriasis to flare up. Often, psoriasis affects the same area repeatedly. Elbows, arms, knees, and legs are commonly afflicted areas.
Generally, your doctor can diagnose you merely by examining your skin, but he or she may also perform a biopsy if needed. Steroids, oils, sprays, medications, vitamins, light therapy, and many other treatments are available. Based on the severity of your condition, your doctor will consult with you to find the treatment that’s best for you. It is important to treat this condition, both to alleviate pain and to help significantly improve your quality of life.
Rashes
Rashes are changes in skin color or texture. Rashes are generally caused by skin irritation and go away with home treatment. In some cases, the skin irritation may require medical treatment. Rashes may be caused by contact with an allergen such as:
- Poisonous plants (Poison Ivy, Poison Oak)
- Soaps, lotions, detergents, shampoos, or perfumes
- Metals
- Fabrics
- Latex
Other Conditions
Many other conditions are easily treated.
Please refer to the Patient Education Library for more information.