Common skin conditions and what to do about them

Top 10 Most Common Reasons To Visit a GP

This is the first in a series of posts covering the top most common reasons for people to see a doctor, and some tips and information about them.

Eczema is a condition which causes the skin to become dry, itchy, red and cracked. Atopic Eczema (Atopic dermatitis) is the most common form. It is more common in children; however it can develop for the first time in adults. It’s usually a long-term (chronic) condition. It’s a highly individual condition which varies from person to person and comes in many different forms. It is not contagious, so you cannot catch it from someone else.

Atopic eczema can cause your skin to become cracked and broken giving a risk of the skin becoming infected with bacteria.

Keeping eczema clean can help to prevent infection, but soap is very drying to the skin and is best avoided by people with eczema. Emollient soap and shower gel substitutes do not foam but are just as effective at cleaning the skin and can either be applied before bathing, showering or washing, or while in the water. Used every day, emollients may be all you need to keep mild to moderate eczema under control. Finding the right emollient is a matter of trial and error, so the best emollient is the one you prefer to use.

Topical steroids are also used in the management of eczema. They reduce redness and soreness, and can be very effective in controlling flare-ups as they make the skin less itchy and sore, giving it a chance to heal. In the UK, topical steroids come as ointments, creams, lotions, scalp applications and impregnated tape/plasters. In deciding which type and strength you need, a medical practitioner will take account of your age, the severity of the eczema, where it occurs and any other treatments you are using. The period of time a steroid may be used depends upon the severity of the eczema and how strong the steroid.

We recommend that you talk to a medical practitioner to advise you on the different products available to treat your eczema.

Impetigo is a skin infection that’s highly contagious but not usually serious. Anyone can get this, but it’s very common in children or those with a low immunity. It’s normally caused by Staphylococcus Aureus germs passing from person to person by skin-to-skin contact. It starts with red sores or blisters which quickly burst and leave a crusty, golden brown patch which can get bigger and can spread to other parts of the body.

Impetigo usually affects skin that’s damaged, so in trying to avoid infections you should keep cuts, scratches and insect bites clean. If you have eczema, try to keep on top of caring for it. Remember that changes in weather can trigger eczema symptoms.

You should see a medical practitioner as soon as possible as a topical cream may be required or perhaps oral antibiotics prescribed.

To stop impetigo from getting worse you should try to keep sores and crusty patches clean and dry, and cover them with loose clothing, gauze or bandages. Wash your hands frequently and have separate hand towels for your own use. Wash your sheets and towels at 60oC and wipe any toys with detergent and warm water if your children have impetigo.

Ringworm is an infection of the trunk, legs, or arms from a dermatophyte fungus. It’s not actually a worm but it is usually transmitted through contact with animals. Children are particularly susceptible and can pass it on easily to others.

Many treatments are available over the counter, so ask your local pharmacist to recommend the best anti-fungal medicine. This might be a cream, gel or spray depending on where the rash is. You usually need to use anti-fungal medicine every day and it’s important to finish the whole course, even if your symptoms go away.

Try to keep the affected area clean and dry. To prevent passing on the infection, do not share towels. Wash towels, sheets, and clothes frequently. Clean your shower or bath well after use. Try not to scratch the rash, as this may spread the fungus to other areas of your body. You do not need to stay off work or school once treatment has started.

If symptoms persist consult a medical practitioner as you may require oral treatment or a skin scraping to be taken. If the symptoms do not resolve it may be necessary to see a skin specialist (dermatologist) for a further opinion.

Related posts:

Reflections of fire. “Reflections” is published by #Flow.

Omlet Arcade is the place for gamers to meet and play. Connect with other players who love the same games by chatting, sharing, and game streaming. On Android, you’ll find our amazing Pro Tools in…

Some people will ask customized silicone hose need process? I would say yes, of course. Today, I will share with you the 3 processes of our company’s customized silicone hose. Step 1: Design the…