Dealing with the presence of tiny bumps on the skin may cause frustration, especially if those bumps persist or cause other symptoms. Because these bumps have several possible causes, consult a medical professional any time you have a bump or group of bumps that do not go away with self-care measures.
Types
Tiny bumps form on the skin for several reasons. If someone with allergies comes into contact with pet dander, pollen, chemicals or other allergens, tiny bumps form as the result of an allergic reaction. Insect bites and stings may also cause small bumps to form over the affected area of the skin. Some bumps form due to the presence of bacterial or viral organisms. Infectious causes of tiny bumps on the skin include human papillomavirus, herpes zoster, impetigo, plantar warts and acne.
Effects
When the skin reacts to contact with an allergen, the tiny bumps cause itching. In cases of irritant contact dermatitis, exposure to the allergen damages the skin and causes pain. After an insect bite or sting, the skin swells as a response to chemicals injected under the skin by the offending insect. Bumps caused by infectious agents may cause itching, burning, swelling and pain.
Treatment
Hydrocortisone cream, steroid creams and cool compresses applied to the skin relieve the itching of skin bumps caused by allergic reactions. Antihistamines reduce itching associated with insect bites and stings, while applying ice to the skin for 10 minutes reduces swelling. For bumps caused by bacterial infections, oral antibiotics or antibiotic creams kill the bacteria and eliminate the infection. Anti-viral medications kill the viral organisms that cause conditions such as HPV, plantar warts and herpes zoster.
Prevention
If you have known allergies, avoid substances that trigger the formation of bumps or blisters on your skin. The use of a daily allergy medication may also reduce the risk of developing skin reactions when you come into contact with an allergen such as pollen, mold, household chemicals or pet dander. When spending time outdoors, use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to avoid insect bites and stings. While you cannot prevent all skin bumps caused by bacteria and viruses, using good hygiene practices and washing your hands regularly can reduce your risk for developing bumps caused by infectious organisms. Avoid sharing razors and other personal items, as they can harbor germs and increase the risk of infection.
Warning
If you have skin bumps caused by an infection, reduce the risk of passing the infection to others by taking several precautions. Covering the bumps with long pants or long-sleeved shirts, using your own towels and bed linens, and avoiding skin-to-skin contact with others will reduce the risk of transmission.
