SUMMER SKIN RASHES

May 15, 2008 by Niko  
Filed under Medical

outdoor skin

Everybody loves to stay out under the warm and pleasant rays of the summer sun and in the midst of nature, but this is not always wise. Too much exposure to sun rays and nature may cause skin rashes. Although many people believe that rashes are simply allergic reactions, this is simply not true.

The most common type of summer skin rash is the Sun Rash. Small reddish blisters appear on those parts of the skin that have been exposed to the sun for too long. This type of rash is mostly confined to people whose skins are very sensitive and cannot stand harsh sunlight for long.

The second most common type is Miliaria, or Prickly Heat. This type of rash is caused by exposure to high heat and humidity which obstruct the ducts of sweat glands located in the skin and triggers the eruption of small, red papules, accompanied by a prickling sensation.

Rashes may also be caused by chemical agents, such as the substances contained by cosmetics or drugs. Photoallergic Dermatitis is a type of rash caused by the reaction of chemicals found in makeup, perfumes, soaps or suntan lotions to prolonged sun exposure. Drug-Induced Photosensitivity is the scientific term for rashes experienced by people who take blood pressure medicine, certain antibiotics and anti-acne products, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, birth control pills and antihistamines.

Ever heard of the Poison Oak? I bet you have. This means you know that some plants can cause rashes and other skin problems. You would do well to stay away from Poison Sumac, Daffodils, Hyacinths, Primrose, Ivy, Stinging Nettles and Pencil Trees.

The best way to treat rashes is leave them alone. Once you are no longer exposed to the sun or to the toxic substances of plants, the rash will go away on its own. Above all, avoid scratching. Mild rashes go away in a couple of hours, but scratching is almost guaranteed to trigger an infection. If the rash is accompanied by fever or by unbearable itching, pay a visit to your doctor at once.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis – How To Manage It?

November 19, 2007 by Niko  
Filed under Skin Infection

As you are no doubt aware Dermatitis Herpetiformis is an extremely common skin ailment. In fact, it is known for being the chronic variety, which simply means that it does not go away after it is developed no matter how you treat the condition on an ongoing basis.

There are, however, quite a variety of treatment methods available that can help to relieve and control the symptoms that are caused by Dermatitis Herpetiformis.

What Are The Symptoms?

Dermatitis Herpetiformis has many symptoms for you to watch out for. The most common and visual include an extremely itchy rash and the local affected area will show signs of redness, swelling, scaling and lesions in the form of papules and vesicles.

Causes of Dermatitis Herpetiformis

Dermatitis Herpetiformis can be caused by an enormous variety of outside influences. Principally the condition is a result of external skin irritants and these are due to the exposure of allergens. Blame for the outbreak of this type of dermatitis can also be attributed to other common irritants such as detergents, soaps and other cleaning products and chemical mixtures. It has been recognised that even cigarette smoke and alcohol can both be responsible for further aggravating the skin and responsible for the onset of this skin condition. A further cause of Dermatitis Herpetiformis is the skin’s exposure to cheap jewellery, particularly items containing nickel.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis is also commonly associated with a reaction in the intestine to gluten products and is quite often contracted by people who suffer from Celiac disease.

Corns May Be A Side Effect

Dermatitis Herpetiformis is often responsible for causing corns on the skin. Corns are basically thick patches of skin. They can appear as hardened raised bumps or flaky, dry or waxy skin. Sometimes corns are confused with Calluses, but they are quite different.

To compare the differences between corns and calluses, you will generally find that corns are typically much smaller in size. They usually have a hard centre and are surrounded by inflamed skin. Corns usually appear on the parts of the skin that get the driest, including the feet and toes and often on and around elbows. Corns can be incredibly painful, particularly on the feet and toes when they rub against shoes. When it comes to finding an effective treatment for Dermatitis Herpetiformis corn sensitivity, there are a number of alternative options to consider.

Recommended Treatments for Dermatitis Herpetiformis

The best treatment regime you should follow will vary depending on the severity of your own particular case of Dermatitis Herpetiformis. In essence the most effective way to treat it is to ensure that the affected area is kept moisturized. If this approach fails then you should consult your doctor who would prescribe some sort of medical treatment. It is always very important to keep in frequent contact with your doctor about your skin condition and together you can work to identify the cause of your Dermatitis Herpetiformis and establish a treatment regime to which your condition responds favourably.

If your Dermatitis Herpetiformis is a direct result of celiac disease then the best, and only option, is a life-long adherence to a strictly wheat and gluten-free diet.

About The Author:
For more information on treatments for Dermatitis Herpetiformis and other forms of dermatitis and eczema go to http://www.dermatitisanswers.com