Skin diseases are common and diverse, with some being congenital and others acquired through infections, allergies, and other medical problems. Dermatologists specialize in treating skin diseases, which can cause embarrassment and discomfort. Symptoms can vary, and changes in the skin should be monitored closely and treated promptly.
A skin disease is a disease involving the skin. Specialists in these diseases are known as dermatologists, and skin diseases are quite diverse, making a lot of work available in the field of dermatology. Many people experience skin disease at some point in their lives, as the skin is the largest organ in the body and is quite exposed, greatly increasing the risk of getting sick or damaged.
Because the skin is a highly visible organ, diseases are often diagnosed early by sharp-eyed patients who take note of changes in their skin. Skin disease can sadly also be a cause of humiliation or embarrassment, due to its highly visible nature.
Some skin conditions are congenital, meaning they are caused by genetics. Harlequin ichthyosis, a painful disease that causes blisters, discoloration, and scales on the skin, is an example of a congenital skin condition. Management of such diseases is often focused on keeping the patient comfortable and addressing symptoms, as the disease may not be curable.
Other skin diseases are acquired, such as infections affecting the skin. Bacteria and fungi are particularly involved in causing skin infections, which can range from impetigo on the face to athlete’s foot between the toes. These conditions can generally be treated with the application of medications. Insect bites, contact with various substances and allergic reactions can cause skin diseases.
Skin conditions can also reflect more serious medical problems. Eczema, for example, is a common problem for people with allergies, as is hives. Skin conditions can be caused by cancers, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and a host of other problems. All in all, there are thousands of recognized skin diseases in the world, although only a fraction of this number appear on a regular basis. Variations on acne, for example, are a leading cause of trips to the dermatologist.
Depending on the nature of the skin disease, a variety of symptoms can occur. The skin may change color or texture, or it may become warm, swollen, or slimy to the touch. Changes in the skin should be monitored closely, as some diseases can be very dangerous and can even be a sign of an underlying medical problem. If a condition appears to be rapidly worsening or does not clear up within a week, it is highly recommended that you visit a dermatologist or general practitioner to determine what is causing the disease and how it can be treated.
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