At some point in your life, you’ve probably experienced the discomfort of a skin disorder. Just like colds and other common illnesses, skin disorders are so prevalent that you’re likely to contract at least one in your lifetime.
Another similarity that skin disorders share with illnesses is that they come in many different forms and types. Common skin disorders can be painful or painless, may pop up temporarily or stick around for years, can have genetic or environmental roots, and could be totally benign or life-threatening.
In fact, there are so many different kinds of skin disorders that they have their own encyclopedia. Despite this, most of the skin disorders people come into contact with fall into a smaller list of more prevalent disorders. Use this blog as a guide to recognize the most common skin disorders.
Are you or a family member dealing with a skin disorder? Come visit Rimma Gelbert, DO. We provide both conventional medicine and alternative methods to holistically treat a variety of skin conditions and disorders. Dr. Gelbert is proud to provide high-quality compassionate care in family medicine and osteopathy in Brooklyn, New York.
Hives is one of the most common skin disorders. It’s often a reaction to certain foods, medications, environmental factors, or overall stress. Hives can erupt almost anywhere on your skin and appear as elevated, blanched bumps surrounded by an intensely itchy red rash. The bumps typically don’t have a set shape but often appear as small, ring-shaped bumps.
Hives are not permanent, and each bump typically only lasts for 8-12 hours. However, during an outbreak, new bumps may replace the spots that dissipate. Most cases of hives resolve on their own within eight weeks, and we can treat them with antihistamines for symptom relief.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is psoriasis, which is a genetic condition that causes flare-ups. During an outbreak, sufferers experience thick, red, bumpy patches on their skin covered with silvery scales. Scratching the scales often makes symptoms worsen. Although an eruption can occur anywhere, most cases appear on your scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
Moisturizers and cortisone creams are some of the most common treatments, but biologics, topical retinoids, medications, and even light therapy may help reduce inflammation and dull symptoms.
Hives and psoriasis are just two of the most common disorders. Other widespread conditions and disorders include:
Most skin disorders are benign and do not pose a serious health risk beyond mild pain and itchiness. However, you should still contact Dr. Gilbert if you think you have any of the above.
Children, and especially babies, have more sensitive skin that is susceptible to a variety of skin disorders. Common problems for children include:
Because children have more frequent exposure to other children and germs, they may develop skin disorders that don’t often occur in adults.
You don’t have to suffer through a skin condition or disorder alone. The team at Rimma Gelbert, DO, is ready to help. Call or book an appointment at our Brooklyn office today.
