Different types of Skin Problems, Symptoms, Prevention, and Cure

According to a survey published in the Saudi Gazette in April 2016, 65% of women in Saudi Arabia suffer from skin ailments, along with more than half the children in the country. The study also revealed that while the variety and frequency of skin conditions might vary, the most common cause is the volatile climate of the Kingdom, with extreme weather conditions that include high temperatures and lack of humidity. The situation is not too different in other countries in the Middle East. Here’s a look at some of the most common skin problems experienced by people in this part of the world.

Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin problems, where the oil clogs the pores on the skin, leading to pimples. It can appear anywhere on the face, neck, shoulders, chest or back, and comes in many forms.

Causes:

• Hormonal Imbalance
• Overactive Sebaceous Glands
• Eating Junk Food

Symptoms:

• Itching
• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Red and painful pimples with pus

Prevention:

• Wash the skin gently with soap for no more than two times in a day
• Don't pop or squeeze the pimples
• Avoid rubbing the affected areas
• Wash sweat and oil off as soon as possible
• Maintain a healthy diet

Treatment:

• Applying creams and lotions
• Antibiotic or other prescribed medication
• Laser Resurfacing

Eczema

The word eczema is derived from the Greek word “ekzein”, which means “to boil out”. And as the name suggests, it is an inflammation of the skin that involves signs like redness, itching, weeping, oozing and even crusting. It is more common in infants and children.

Causes:

• Environment
• Genetic factors
• Allergens like dust mites, pollen and dandruff
• Microbes, like bacteria, virus and fungi
• Hormones
• Stress

Symptoms:

• Rashes on the scalp and cheeks
• An extra fold of the skin under the eye, called the Atopic pleat
• Inflammation of skin around the lips
• Dry skin
• Constant urge to rub and itch

Prevention:

• Bathing regularly, at least once a day
• Wearing clothes made of breathable material
• Avoiding activities that lead to excessive perspiration

Treatment:

• Using anti-inflammatory creams
• Antibiotics
• Photo-therapy
• Medicines to treat viral and fungal infections
• Moisturizers for the skin

Skin Cancer

Overexposure to the sun and UV rays increases the risk of skin cancer. This disease damages the fibers in the skin, called elastin, which results to the tearing and breaking off of the skin. The damage may not be visible at a young age but starts to show its effect as time passes.

Causes:

• Uncontrolled growth of skin cells
• Ultraviolet (UV) radiations from the sun
• X-ray exposure
• Scars or burns

Symptoms:

• Small blood vessel may be visible within the tumor
• Depression
• Bleeding
• Sore throat that doesn't heal

Prevention:

• Apply a good sunscreen before going out
• Use sunglasses
• Cover as much skin as possible

Treatment:

• Laser Treatment
• Chemotherapy
• Drugs and medication
• Cryosurgery or freezing
• Radiation Therapy