(The Skin)

Common Skin Problems and Disorders

It is a special feature of the skin that while serving many vitally important functions, it also plays a major role in appearance. Like the internal system of the body, it may be subject to serious disease, but unlike the internal systems, relatively minor disorders such as acne, dandruff or psoriasis, cause distress to the individual out of all proportion to their effect on his or her physical well-being. The tendency to certain skin disorders, such as psoriasis, ichthyosis and some forms of eczema, seems to be inherited but there are plenty of other skin troubles with a variety of causes.

For instance, contact with certain substances may produce a reaction in the skin (contact eczema) and the skin may also show other symptoms, including itching, blistering or rash- which are signs of diseases such as measles or of allergies.

The skin is also a site of infection; two of the most common virus infections are cold sores and warts. Impetigo is a bacterial infection which affects the skin and then there are common fungal infections, such as thrush and athlete's foot.

Growths on the skin are usually benign, but in certain cases they may be cancerous. A new growth or change in a mole or its surrounding skin should always be reported to the doctor since most skin cancers are curable if checked and treated early.

The most common hair loss (alopecia) is male-pattern balding, usually an inherited trait. Sadly, little can be done to remedy it. Occasionally females may also lose hair, but in most cases this is only temporary.

Increased growth of hair (hirsutism), which can distress women, is sometimes due to a hormonal abnormality but usually no cause can be found.

High Risk Groups

•  Blood relatives of people suffering from allergies are more likely than average to have similar troubles.

•  People with fair skin and fair hair. These people, particularly red-heads, are very sensitive to sunlight.

•  People exposed to chemicals. Anyone using detergents, or workers in contact with mineral oils, dyes and chemicals.

•  People infected with HIV.

Main Symptoms Of Skin Disorders

•  Lumps

•  Rash

•  Skin abnormalities

•  Itching

How To Prevent Skin Problems

•  Wear gloves when handling detergents, oils or chemicals and wash thoroughly after handling chemicals, even if gloves have been worn.

•  Do not use other people's towels or face washers.

•  Cover your skin when in sunlight, especially if you are fair, with a broad-brimmed hat and cotton sleeves.

•  Keep out of the hot sun and use a good sunscreen.

Disorders Of The Skin