Bumps on the skin can be irritating, itchy and worrisome. While most of the time the cause is apparent, in some cases, it may take some sleuthing and careful consideration to determine why you have skin bumps. If your bumps are very painful or if they persist despite home treatment, see a doctor to rule out serious health conditions.
Acne
Acne lesions, commonly called zits or pimples, are often white, pink or red bumps on the face, chest or back. Sometimes acne can cause nodules or cysts beneath the surface of the skin, which appear as lumps and may be quite painful. Sometimes pimples or cysts can become infected; picking or squeezing the lesions can make this more likely, according to the Mayo Clinic. For mild cases, washing with a gentle cleanser, using over-the-counter acne medication and switching to cosmetics and lotions that will not clog your pores is often enough to reduce acne. For more serious or persistent cases, see a dermatologist.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum is a virus that occurs most often in children, but can infect adults as well. If you contract molluscum, you will notice fleshy, painless bumps on various areas of your body. You can spread molluscum to other people, so if you suspect that you have it, avoid sharing towels and other personal care items. Most of the time, the virus clears up on its own within a year; in some cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control, lesions can last up to 4 years. Molluscum is not a serious disease, but if you are concerned, see your doctor to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
Bug Bites
Bites and stings from insects, wasps and spiders can cause bumps on the skin. The area may be painful or itchy. Most of the time, insect bites and stings heal on their own. Occasionally, they may provoke a serious allergic reaction or become infected. Warning signs of a serious reaction include breathing difficulties, facial or oral swelling, fainting or nausea and vomiting. If you suspect that an insect has bitten you and you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical care. Athough most spiders are innocuous, if you think you have been bitten by a black widow or brown recluse spider, go to an emergency room, as they are venomous.
Allergic Reactions
If you are allergic to a specific plant, medication or food, you may experience skin bumps called hives. The American Academy of Asthma Allergy & Immunology recommends using cool compresses and taking a cool shower to relieve the itching and discomfort of hives. If you do not know what you are allergic to, make an appointment with an allergist for testing so you can avoid exposing yourself to the allergen in the future. If you have any of the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, get emergency help.
