The Five Common Types of Skin Conditions

There are millions of skin conditions and disorders that plague the modern age human beings. Skin conditions or disorders can be of various types. While the cures for some have been found, the others still remain a mystery to the scientists and doctors alike.

Skin conditions or disorders are not restricted to one particular gender or age group. They can happen to any one and every one. Knowledge about them is the best way to prevent them or fight them. For the sake of understanding, skin conditions can be grouped into five categories:

1. Skin inflammations

2. viral

3. bacterial

4. fungal

5. Cancer

Inflammation of the skin as the name suggests is caused by blockages or even allergens. A well known inflammatory condition is known as acne which can affect the adults as well as teenagers (although it affects teenagers more). Acne occurs when the pores become blocked due to some reason. Chest, back, face and shoulders are the general areas of occurrence. There are many more skin inflammatory disorders like eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.

Viral skin disorders occur due to viral infections. These include herpes, warts, chicken pox and measles. These skin conditions are generally common in children; however unprotected sex may lead to such skin conditions in adults as well. A well known viral skin infection is chicken pox. The virus behind this disorder is the varicella virus. The symptoms of this disorder include skin rashes which may become open sores. Generally, the infection flares up after two to three weeks.

Bacteria cause bacterial skin disorders. These disorders are more manageable than the viral skin conditions since most bacteria respond well to antibiotics which are readily available these days. An example of bacterial skin infection is the Barber’s Itch or folliculitis which can be found on any part of the body. Another example is the impetigo which generally occurs on the legs, face and arms. Contact sports players and children are generally affected here.

Fungus also causes skin disorders. These micro organisms thrive on the dead skin. The rate of growth of fungus is quite fast however they are more treatable than virus or bacteria. Many conditions fall under this category like candida, ring worm, athlete’s foot. Most of these infections can be dealt with the over the counter medications available.

One of the most serious condition is skin cancer. This can be caused due to a variety of reasons or risk factors. These include genetic makeup or excessive exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. In skin cancer the tumor generally develops on the epidermis. Some well know skin cancer types include basal cell cancer, squamous cell and melanoma.

Time prevention of skin conditions is possible. All you need to do is follow a good diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Also there are many different drugs, creams, and therapies for skin conditions such as over the counter medicines or prescriptions prescribed by your doctor. Apart from that, if you find any kind of spot on the skin which doesn’t not go away or rather increases in size, then you need to remember that it’s time to go to a doctor!