Identify Skin ProblemsDry, itchy, flaky skin is uncomfortable and unattractive. Wearing long sleeves and jeans can cover up skin problems on the extremities, but when problem is visible on the face, there is no hiding. Before rushing to buy something at the drugstore, you need to find out exactly what type of skin problem you have. Some minor skin problems can be treated with over the counter products. Unless you can identify skin problems precisely, you may be making it worse by delay or incorrect treatment. Three common skin problems are psoriasis, eczema and rosacea. Psoriasis is more common in adults that children while eczema is seen more often in children. Psoriasis, linked to environmental irritants, is characterized by red, flaking and itching that is extremely uncomfortable. Eczema is dry, itchy skin that is also red but the redness is seen in small blisters or raised red spots.
One way to identify skin problems in deciding whether the condition is eczema or psoriasis is the connection of diet to worsening of the skin problem. Eczema can be triggered as an allergic reaction to certain foods. Removing the foods that may cause this reaction and observing the symptoms for at least two week can help you to determine which foods may be causing the eczema. Psoriasis does not have any known link to food allergies. Other than visible identification of the types of redness and possible food allergy connection, determining whether you have psoriasis or eczema needs to be diagnosed by a dermatologist. Prescription medication may be required to get this condition under control and relieve symptoms. Rosacea is a chronic skin inflammation that affects millions of adults primarily between the ages of 35 to 70. This condition is more common in women then men. Without treatment, symptoms of rosacea can become extremely unpleasant and result in skin damage. Prescription creams and ointments are more effective than over the counter products. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed until the outbreak is manageable with topical treatments. People with rosacea must avoid excessive sun exposure and heated environments. Rosacea symptoms may be aggravated in some people by certain foods called trigger foods such as chocolate, highly spiced foods and carbonated beverages. As you attempt to identify skin problems, be aware that while most are mere irritations some skin problems are symptoms of life-threatening conditions. A painful, sunburn like rash that appears suddenly after a high fever needs immediate medical attention to diagnosis the cause. This skin rash could be the first sign of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a serious bacterial infection that progresses rapidly. Toxic Shock was first identified in cases related to tampon wearers but is now known to be a bacterial condition that can affect men, women or children. From the simple to the severe, it's important to identify skin problems and begin treatment as soon as possible. This approach calms the symptoms, reduces potential for skin damage and determines whether there are more serious medical issues that need attention. |