The skin is the body’s largest organ and is a physical barrier that protects you against hazardous substances, bodily injury, and helps to regulate your body temperature. Dermatology conditions generally occur on the skin\’s outermost layer, the epidermis, due to this layer acting as the body’s primary defense. Because it keeps out harmful substances, it may sometimes become inflamed, blistered, red, scaly, patchy, itchy, bumpy, or sore.
Common Dermatology Conditions
Having irritated skin can be uncomfortable, painful, and even embarrassing. At Blue Ridge Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of common dermatology conditions. Here, we have compiled a list of 5 common dermatology conditions that may be leading to your discomfort.
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Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a medical term used to describe skin inflammation. Several different factors can lead to dermatitis, including allergic reactions, age, occupation, environment, and other health conditions. The most common types of dermatitis include, but are not limited to:
- Contact dermatitis: A skin rash or irritation after direct contact with a substance.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: A type of dermatitis that causes scaly and red patches, most commonly found on the scalp.
- Stasis dermatitis: Caused by fluid buildup in the legs, stasis dermatitis can cause skin discoloration, itching, thickened skin, or open sores.
Depending on what type of dermatitis you have, treatments will vary. If you are unsure which type you are suffering from, making an appointment with your dermatologist is always recommended, as they can help get to the root cause of common dermatology conditions.
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Hives
Hives are often red, raised, and itchy bumps or patches that appear on the skin when the body releases histamine. Histamine is a chemical made by your immune system in response to injury, allergic, and inflammatory reactions. If you are experiencing hives, try an over-the-counter anti-itch cream, apply a cold compress, avoid tight-fitting clothing, and stay out of direct sunlight. Because hives generally go away after a short period, if your hives persist, it may indicate other dermatology conditions or even an autoimmune disease.
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Eczema
According to the National Eczema Association, over 31.6 million people in the United States suffer from some form of eczema. This condition, also known as atopic dermatitis, usually begins during childhood and persists through adulthood. To help soothe your skin and reduce itching, apply moisturizer at least twice daily, use gentle soaps and cleansers, apply anti-itch cream, or take an over-the-counter oral allergy medication.
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Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a disease in which portions of your skin become covered with dry, red patches that have silvery scales. This disease affects approximately 7.5 million people in the United States. Although it can occur in all age groups, it is most commonly seen in adults between the ages of 45 and 64. Common dermatology conditions such as psoriasis can be treated through medical procedures, such as photodynamic therapy, or by medications and other forms of self-care.
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Rosacea
Dermatology conditions such as rosacea affect the skin’s first and second layers— the epidermis and dermis. This condition is the chronic inflammation of the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead, and other parts of the body. Those with rosacea may also experience pimples, pustules, or enlargement of the oil glands of the nose, called rhinophyma. Rosacea can flare up due to sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol consumption, strenuous exercise, irritation from skin products, and certain medications. To combat rosacea symptoms, avoid triggers, moisturize your skin daily, or see your dermatologist for oral antibiotics.
There are a number of common dermatology conditions that may warrant a trip to your dermatologist, as you may be wondering what your first step should be for relief. Luckily, Blue Ridge Dermatology is here to help. Our quality healthcare services focus on addressing your concerns with careful examination, diagnosis, treatment, and education. If you have a skin condition that is bothersome or worrisome, please do not hesitate to reach out at (919) 781-1050 for more information.
