Skin problems affect almost every area of the body and can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as itching, rashes and irritation. Understanding the many types of skin disorders can help you determine whether it is time to contact a medical professional to discuss your symptoms.
Significance
Skin problems cause uncomfortable symptoms and might contribute to depression and other mood disorders. Dr. Ted Grossbart, a faculty member at Harvard Medical School and the author of "Skin Deep: A Mind/Body Program for Healthy Skin," reports that people with chronic skin disorders have a higher risk of major depression. Skin disorders can also cause anger, lack of confidence, frustration and social withdrawal.
Types
Types of skin problems include skin cancer, fungal infections, viral infections, bacterial infections and inflammatory conditions. Skin cancer occurs when damaged cells in the skin begin to divide and multiply uncontrollably. Fungal infections occur when fungus invades the superficial or deep layers of the skin. Examples of fungal infections include athlete's foot, ringworm, scalp ringworm, jock itch and nail fungus. Viral infections occur when viral organisms invade the body and cause rashes to appear on the skin. Common viral infections that cause skin problems include chickenpox, measles, rubella and shingles. When bacteria invade open wounds or get trapped underneath the folds of the skin, bacterial infections occur. Examples of bacterial skin infections include cellulitis, folliculitis, impetigo and erythrasma. Inflammatory skin diseases include eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and poison ivy. These conditions cause rashes, itching, irritation and other symptoms.
Identification
Doctors identify many skin disorders with a thorough examination of the skin. This examination involves inspecting the skin for rashes, lesions, sores and other markings. If a doctor is unable to make a diagnosis based on a visual examination, a skin biopsy can provide a more definitive diagnosis. This procedure involves removing a portion of the affected tissue and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. Laboratory technicians determine the presence of specific skin conditions by identifying bacteria, viruses, fungi and other organisms in the tissue sample.
Prevention/Solution
Minimize your risk of developing a skin condition by taking care of your skin. Princeton University recommends washing your face with tepid water and using a washcloth to wipe away dirt, oil and dead skin cells. Avoid sharing towels, razors and other personal care products with others to limit the amount of bacteria, viral organisms and fungal organisms transferred to your skin. Protect your skin from the ultraviolet light of the sun by wearing sunscreen with SPF 15 each day. Cover up with long sleeves, long pants and hats when you spend time in direct sunlight.
Warning
Unless a doctor has already diagnosed you with a skin condition, do not try to treat your skin problem without talking to a medical professional. Blemishes and rashes that look harmless might be a problem that requires medication or surgical intervention. Visit your doctor if you notice skin changes that could indicate cancer. An early diagnosis reduces cancer complications and improves the survival rate for skin cancer.
