Which Skin Condition Is Common In Older Adults?

Ageing is not directly related to skin conditions, but our skin becomes thinner, less oily, and less elastic as we age. These factors make our skin prone to skin diseases. The rate of ageing for your skin depends on various factors such as lifestyle, personal habits like smoking, heredity, and diet. As you age, one of the biggest causes of skin damage is sun exposure. The UV radiation from the sun causes the skin to sag, stretch, and become blotchy.

As older people are more susceptible to skin diseases, it is necessary to check your skin for any signs of rashes or other conditions to keep your skin healthy and safe. Skin conditions that affect you in older ages take longer to heal and generally do not go away without treatment.

So, let’s look at some of the common skin conditions that affect older people and their treatment and preventive measures.

4 Skin Conditions That Affect Older Adults

1.      Senile Purpura

• Description: Senile Purpura is a type of skin condition that generally affects older adults. As the skin becomes thinner over time, so do the blood vessels. Thinner blood vessels are more prone to disruption and bruising; this results in bruise marks commonly found on the forearms.

• Symptoms: Bruise marks on different parts of the body, especially forearms. This condition does not have any links to any vitamin deficiency or bleeding disorders. However, seeking treatment is in your best interest.

• Treatment: Treatment includes medically prescribed topical retinoids for improving the thickness of your skin; this helps reduce the further effects of ageing on your skin. Generally, treatment for this condition is cosmetic as it does not pose any severe harm to your health.

• Prevention: Best prevention methods include using sunscreen and reducing exposure to the sun as much as possible. It can help your skin avoid any further damage from the effect of UV radiation from the sun.

2.      Xerosis

• Description: Xerosis is a skin condition caused by the lack of oil content in the skin. Dry skin with a lack of oil content is common in older adults who commonly suffer from this condition. The skin appears dry and flaky and generally affects areas like the lower back, arms, and shins.

• Symptoms: Scaly and flaky skin in a netlike pattern in areas such as limbs, shins, lower back. It can also appear as significant red round patches, red scaly fissures.

• Treatment: Improving your skin hygiene and using a thick moisturiser can help improve the symptoms of this condition. You can also use a humidifier to improve the dryness of your skin. If your condition does not improve by following these steps, you must take medical advice.

• Prevention: Dietary changes such as reducing the amount of caffeine and alcohol intake can also help you prevent conditions like xerosis. Also, limiting your exposure to water by reducing the time of your showers can help.

3.      Senile Freckles

• Description: Senile freckles are one of the facial skin diseases that affect the elderly. This condition is caused due to the cumulative skin damage caused by exposure to the sun over the years. This condition differentiates itself from freckles as the spots caused by this condition are larger and irregularly shaped in comparison to freckles.

• Symptoms: Large Brown spots on the face that resemble freckles. If the freckles are growing or becoming thicker, you should get medical help as it can be signs of cancerous growth.

• Treatment: This condition can be treated medically or by surgical processes such as freezing the freckles and electrosurgery. Using certain chemical peels and skin lightening creams.

• Prevention: Using sunscreen with an SPF value higher than 50 and limiting your skin exposure to the sun. You should also wear clothes that cover your skin and wide brim hats to prevent this condition.

4.      Stasis Dermatitis

• Description: Stasis Dermatitis is a type of skin condition that usually affects areas such as the legs. This condition is caused due to poor blood circulation in older adults. It is necessary to pursue treatment for this condition as it can have serious health hazards if left untreated.

• Symptoms: Rashes usually in areas such as the ankles, legs, and feet. Symptoms also include discolouration of the skin, itching, and thickened skin.

• Treatment: Medically prescribed topical creams can help reduce the symptoms. You can also use compression stockings for the treatment of this condition.

• Prevention: You should avoid sitting or standing for long hours; propping up your feet while sitting can also be beneficial.

As we age, the immunity powers of our body reduce and cause different skin conditions to appear. Some of these conditions can be indicators of severe health issues and should be medically checked and treated at the earliest. This way, you can avoid any type of skin condition in the future and have healthy and supple skin throughout your life.

What Causes Red Itchy Bumps On The Skin?

Do you have red itchy bumps all over your skin for no reason? The red itchy bumps are often referred to as rashes, and there can be an ample number of reasons behind them. While some of us have it just due to the change in weather, others might get blisters or those bumps as an allergic reaction of the body.

Besides, there are several types of rashes that affect the skin in different parts of the body. There is a varied range of factors that can cause itchy bumps on the skin. Some of them are:

• Exposure to environmental allergens

• Certain diseases such as measles or chickenpox

• Allergic reaction to medications, food or certain metal objects such as nickel earrings

• Infections such as ringworm

• Chronic troubles such as psoriasis

Let’s dive in deeper and find out about some of it in detail.

1.      Fifth disease

• Description: Anyone with a weak immune system can get affected with the fifth disease. However, pregnant women or kids are more vulnerable to getting affected by it even though the effects are not really that severe. It causes red rashes on the legs, cheeks and different other parts of the body.

• Symptom: The symptoms are quite similar to that of the common flu. However,

• it usually includes itchy rashes, headache, fatigue, sore throat and several other symptoms.

• Treatment: There is no such treatment for this disease as the effects are quite mild. However, it is best to take adequate rest and to drink lots of healthy fluids for getting healed soon.

• Prevention: The fifth disease is contagious and is often spread from respiratory secretions like sputum or saliva. That is why it gets transmitted easily, as it is highly contagious. Therefore, the only way of prevention is to maintain distance from the person suffering from it.

2.      Atopic dermatitis

• Description: Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a skin disease that leads to itchy, cracked skin and inflammation. There are several kinds of eczema, among which some lead to blisters as well.

• Symptoms: The symptoms basically depend on the age of the affected person. Atopic dermatitis often results in dry patches on the skin, which are intensely itchy. Open sores or skin flushing are also two common symptoms of this skin condition.

• Treatment: The only way to treat these skin issues is by treating the affected skin and by preventing it from further infections.

• Prevention: Wear comfortable cotton garments and avoid wearing clothes made of harsh and rough materials. Make sure to moisturize the skin after certain intervals.

3.      Skin Allergy or Allergic contact dermatitis

• Description: While some of us are allergic to certain medications or food products, others are allergic to various types of objects. There are a variety of everyday things which can lead to skin allergy, i.e., itchy red bumps on the body.

• Symptoms: Itchy rashes on the face or arms are the most notable symptoms. Besides, the symptoms generally develop within a day, but the after effect takes about a week to go away.

• Treatment: There are several medications for easing the effect of these allergies. But calamine lotions or oatmeal baths quite often reduces the itching and heals the affected areas swiftly.

• Prevention: The only option to prevent your body from getting triggered by the allergens is by avoiding consuming certain foods, medications or reducing the usage of objects that might lead to allergies on your skin.

4.      Fungal Infection

• Description: From athlete’s foot, ringworm to Jock itch, all of these fungal infections are caused by a fungus that survives in warm and moist areas of the body such as the underarms, toes and groin.

• Symptoms: The symptoms depend solely on which part of the body it has affected. While some might be itchy red patches on the skin, the other ones might also give a burning sensation besides an intense itchy feeling.

• Treatment: Consulting a dermatologist and following his advice is the best way to tackle these infections. There are a number of antifungal medications and medicated creams that are used for the healing of the affected areas.

• Prevention: It is a contagious disease and often spreads when you come in touch with an infected individual, pet or an infected area of an object. The only way of prevention is to avoid using the same towels or other belongings of an infected person.

There can be many reasons why itchy bumps suddenly appear on your skin. However, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding coming in contact with an infected individual are some of the best ways to prevent this unwelcoming trouble.

Skin Rash: COVID-19, Types, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Skin rashes are an uncommon symptom of COVID-19. However, in asymptomatic young adult patients, the symptom of skin rashes has been found more commonly than others. Skin rashes are not yet listed as official symptoms of the COVID-19 virus, but certain skin rashes could be an indicator that you might be affected by COVID-19.

If a patient is suffering from fever symptoms and starts getting rashes on their skin, the chances of the patient suffering from COVID-19 increase. They must immediately get tested to see if they have contracted the COVID-19 virus. Some rashes have been commonly found to be affecting people suffering from COVID-19.

Let us discuss their types, causes, treatments, and prevention below.

5 Skin Rashes That Can Be Symptoms Of The Covid-19 Virus

1.      COVID Digits

• Description: COVID digits refer to red and purple rashes on the fingers and toes of a patient. These rashes were common in the colder months of the year, but after they affected people in the warm months too. It was connected to be a symptom for COVID-19. However, officially it is not listed as a COVID-19 symptom.

• Symptoms: Inflammation on the fingers and toes of patients with red and purple rashes that cause soreness. These rashes are not known to cause itchiness. If they are accompanied by fever, it can increase the possibility of COVID-19 infection.

• Treatment: As this rash is related to COVID-19, it is essential to get tested for the virus if you show any other symptoms along with the rashes. For the rashes, you can use topical nitroglycerin gels.

• Prevention: Avoid over-exposure to cold temperatures. Keep your hands, face, and feet warm and dry. Be sure to wear a mask, sanitise regularly, and maintain social distancing.

2.      Eczema on Neck and Exposed Chest Regions

• Description: Neck and exposed chest eczema has been linked to patients suffering from or recovering from COVID. This rash appears on the patient's neck and chest area that is exposed to sunlight. These rashes are pink in appearance and itchy and can stay for an extended period.

• Symptoms: Very pink rashes on the neck and exposed chest regions in direct contact with sunlight. The rashes are very itchy and cause severe irritation.

• Treatment: The best way to treat this condition is to avoid using soaps and other irritants. You can also use some medically prescribed ointment and gels to provide comfort from the itching and irritation.

• Prevention: Do not use harsh soaps, detergents, and solvents. Avoid wearing scratchy fabric like wool and moisturise regularly.

3.      Oral Rashes

• Description: Oral Rashes are found on the lips of people suffering from or recovering from COVID-19. These rashes can be found on the patient's lips, and it causes the lips to be sore. Oral rashes are uncommon and cannot always be linked with COVID-19.

• Symptoms: Soreness and rashes on the lips, dry and scaly lips. These rashes can also cause soreness inside your mouth.

• Treatment: For pain relief, you can use medicines such as Tylenol. Also, try gargling with salt and water.

• Prevention: Using proper dental hygiene is essential for protection against oral rashes. You should also consider not consuming very hot foods or drinks.

 4.      Pityriasis Rosea

• Description: This type of rash can be caused due to viral infection, although it has not yet been completely confirmed. They appear either on your chest, abdomen, or back.

• Symptoms: This rash often starts out as a large spot on your abdomen, chest, or back followed by smaller lesions.

• Treatment: These rashes can heal on their own in their own time, although you can use certain antihistamines and antiviral drugs to get rid of this rash quickly.

• Prevention: This rash does not have any clear prevention steps as the cause for this rash is not yet fully understood. The best call of action is to maintain proper hygiene and follow COVID appropriate behaviour.

5.      Hives

• Description: Hives or urticaria is a type of rash that develops rapidly and can affect any part of the body. In the case of a COVID-19 patient, these rashes can show when the virus shortly infects the person. However, this rash is more long-term for people healing from the virus and is no longer contagious.

• Symptoms: Appears on any part of the body and is intensely itchy. It can also cause swelling in certain areas of the body.

• Treatment: These rashes can go away as quickly as a few hours on their own. In case the rashes do not go away, you can opt for antihistamine medication.

• Prevention: It is crucial to maintain proper skin hygiene to avoid these rashes. Also, avoid using hot water showers to prevent hives.

Skin rashes are not automatically linked to COVID-19. However, the rashes mentioned above are commonly found in people either affected or healing from COVID-19. Some of these rashes can signify that you are affected by the virus, even if you are asymptomatic. So, it is essential to take these cues seriously and get yourself tested when required.

How Do I Identify A Rash?

Rashes are a type of skin disease that is defined as a general outbreak of skin lesions. Rashes differ drastically from one another in terms of appearance. The appearance and its symptoms are some of the main ways to identify a rash. Rashes are generally non-lethal, but they should not be left untreated. So, you must identify rashes by their symptoms and go for treatment with either over the counter medication or proper dermatological help. 

Rashes can be caused by various factors such as contact dermatitis, allergic reaction to food and drugs, fungal, viral, and other types of infections. Rashes are generally distinguished based on their appearance. Some of the factors considered for determining different rashes are dryness or moisty, bumpy or smooth, blistered or cracked, and if they are painful, itchy or both. In rare cases, it has been noticed that rashes also change colour in their course of infection.

Now that you know the different factors used for differentiating between rashes let’s find out how you can identify a rash and what steps you can take to cure them.

5 Types Of Rashes You Can Identify At Home

1.      Fifth Disease

• Description: The fifth disease is a type of rash that affects children especially. It affects the cheeks commonly with circular bright red rashes on them.

• Symptoms: Along with the rashes on the cheeks, it can also cause fever, diarrhoea, nausea, and fatigue.

• Treatment: These rashes are painful and more so because they commonly affect children. These rashes go away on their own in due time, but pain-relieving medication might be required to alleviate the pain.

• Prevention: Maintaining proper hygiene with regular washing of hands with soap and water. Covering your face when sneezing or coughing and not touching your eyes, nose, and mouth in public.

2.      Rosacea

• Description: Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that infects a person for a long time. This rash goes through phases of disappearance and relapse. Rosacea also has four different subtypes, all of which have varying symptoms.

• Symptoms: Rosacea comes with facial redness with red bumps on the skin and facial flushing, along with skin dryness and sensitivity.

• Treatment: This skin condition is serious and should not be left untreated as it tends to get more serious over time. The go-to medication for this disease is antibiotics and anti-acne medication.

• Prevention: Use proper sun protection by covering up and using sunscreen. You should also reduce your exposure to high temperatures.

3.      Ringworm

• Description: Ringworms are scaly in nature, and they are circular in shape with raised borders. The skin in the middle seems normal, and only the raised edges seem to spread outward. Ringworms can be very itchy in nature.

• Symptoms: Circular rashes on the skin with raised red edges that are highly irritating and itchy.

• Treatment: Ringworms are a type of fungal infection that does not go away on its own. You need to use treatment over the counter or medically prescribed anti-fungal medication.

• Prevention: As it is a fungal infection, the best way to prevent it is to make sure you follow proper skin hygiene and keep your skin dry. Make sure to wear clean clothes and change your underwear every day.

4.      Allergic Eczema

• Description: Allergic eczema resembles a burn with blisters, scaly, and raw skin that ooze or become crusty. They are usually noticed on the hands and forearms of a person and are red and itchy in nature.

• Symptoms: Scaly, raw, and itchy skin forms blisters and ooze out pus or becomes crusty on top. In terms of appearance, it may resemble a burn.

• Treatment: Medical treatment for this condition includes using both over the counter and prescribed medications such as hydrocortisone cream to reduce the itching. You should also moisturize the affected area with fragrance-free moisturizers.

• Prevention: Moisturizing is the key to preventing this condition. You should also avoid hot places that make you sweat a lot.

 5.      Psoriasis

• Description: Psoriasis usually affects areas such as the knees, elbows, and lower back regions. It involves the skin turning silvery in colour, with very defined patches appearing on the skin. This infection also causes the affected skin to become scaly.

• Symptoms: Itchy patches of skin that turn silvery in colour. This condition can also be asymptomatic, which means the appearance changes without any itching.

• Treatment: Medical treatment for this condition includes using topical ointments and gels for relieving the symptoms. The treatment aims to reduce the cells from growing too fast.

• Prevention: Properly moisturizing your skin is a must to prevent psoriasis. You should also maintain proper care and hygiene of your skin and scalp.

Skin diseases are common, and everyone suffers from them from time to time. The key is to identify it properly and treat it as soon as possible. If you are unable to identify the rash at home, be sure to get medical help. Untreated skin diseases can be problematic for you, so do not take them very lightly.

Skin Rash: Skin Disorders: Pictures, Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Skin disorders are prevalent among people of all ages and races. As the skin is the largest organ of your body, it is exposed to different elements that can cause problems such as rashes, allergies, and skin disorders. Skin disorders often share similar symptoms, which is why it is hard to identify from which condition you are suffering. 

Most skin disorders are not severe, and they do not pose any real threat to your health and well-being in the long run. However, some disorders have the potential of becoming harmful to your health over time. So it is essential that you keep a check on your problems and get them treated as soon as possible.

Skin disorders can be irritable, sore, itchy and hard to get rid of, but it is essential that you identify the type of skin disorder you have for it to be treated soon. Delaying treatment might cause the affected area to spread further, and the skin disease can become even tougher to heal. So, let’s take a look at some common skin disorders and how you can treat and prevent them.

4 Common Skin Disorders And How To Treat Them

1.      Seborrheic Dermatitis

●     Description: This condition is common for babies, but it can affect adults as well. It is usually harmless and can go away on its own in due time. In babies, this condition is known as a ‘cradle cap’. In adults, this condition can affect any part of the body, and the condition will be prone to appearance and disappearance throughout the patient’s life.

●     Symptoms: For babies, the symptoms include scaly and greasy skin, especially on the scalp. For adults, the symptoms are different as the skin tends to become swollen and reddish in colour with a greasy look.

●     Treatment: This condition requires continuous treatment in the form of medicated soaps and shampoos. You may also need to use medically prescribed anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory medications.

2.      Moles

●     Description: Moles are a very common skin condition that appears when skin cells gather up with tissues surrounding the area. Moles can appear in your body at any time during your lifetime. In general, moles are harmless, but they should be checked out if they grow abnormally or change colour.

●     Symptoms: There are no such symptoms when it comes to moles. Moles appear as a projection on your skin, generally blackish or brownish in colour. They can appear randomly without any prior symptoms.

●     Treatment: Moles are essentially harmless in most cases, and they do not require medical treatment. If you are not happy with the moles on your body and want to treat them, the treatment process is surgically removing the mole.

3.      Melanoma

●     Description: Melanoma is a condition that is directly linked to moles. It is a form of serious skin cancer that can be fatal if not treated properly. Melanoma is the consequence for which moles need to keep in check. This condition can affect children and adults both.

●     Symptoms: Melanoma can be identified when you notice any irregularly shaped mole on your body. You should also be alarmed if any moles are coloured in an uneven manner.

●     Treatment: Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. The treatment process includes chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Melanoma can be treated if it is diagnosed early on; in the later stages, it can be fatal, so early diagnosis is a necessity.

4.      Lupus

●     Description: Lupus is a serious skin disorder that affects the immune system of the body. This condition is highly complex and varies greatly from person to person. The skin rashes that appear from lupus are not irritating, but it affects your body in other ways such as fever, headaches, and pain in the joints.

●     Symptoms: Red patches of skin that are ring-shaped and sunburn-like spots on the nose and cheek are some of the most common symptoms of lupus. If the rashes mentioned are followed by bouts of fever, fatigue, and headaches, it can be a significant symptom that you are suffering from lupus.

●     Treatment: Lupus is an incurable condition that cannot be fully treated. Treatment for this condition focuses on improving the lifestyle of the affected by controlling the flare ups experienced by the patient. Steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs can be used as a medication for controlling this condition.

Skin disorders are common, but they require certain lifestyle and personal hygiene changes for the best course of treatment. More often than not, skin disorders are easier to treat when they are diagnosed early on. Still, in later stages of diagnosis, some skin disorders can become untreatable as well as fatal. So, it is crucial for you to pay close attention to your skin health to avoid such diseases.

What Are Rare Skin Diseases?

Be it an abnormal-looking red bump on your skin or sudden itchiness at certain portions, issues related to skin conditions are quite common among people of all ages. While most complications regarding our skin are treatable and do not really require any such attention, there are a handful of other rare ones which demand immediate medical advice. In severe cases, these conditions might not be curable as well.

There are many skin diseases that are incredibly rare and affect only hundreds among millions of people. It is still crucial to know the details to stay informed regarding the symptoms and get yourself treated in case you see the symptoms appear on yourself. Read ahead to learn about the vital details of some rare skin diseases.

4 Rare Skin Diseases For You To Know

1. Harlequin ichthyosis

• Description: This is a genetic disorder that often leads to the thickening of the skin at various parts of the body in newborns.

• Symptoms: Infants born with this rare skin condition often have deep and shiny patches or plates of skin and thick erythematous fissures separating the layers of the plates. Other symptoms often include Eclabium, dehydration, severe ectropion, etc.

• Treatment: Even though there is no such cure for this disease, you should still contact your dermatologist and follow their suggestions. In most cases, the doctors prescribe antibiotics for protecting the firm skin from causing further infection.

• Prevention: As stated earlier, Harlequin ichthyosis is passed on to the next generation through autosomal recessive genes. The only way to know whether you are a carrier or not is by consulting with a genetic counsellor before conceiving. Besides, the newborn will have this rare skin disorder only if both the parents pass down the gene and not the other way round.

2. Morgellons

• Description: This skin disease is often referred to as a delusional disorder. The person suffering from it often believes that foreign particles or insects are crawling inside or coming out of broken skin. Morgellons is usually misunderstood as a psychiatric disorder.

• Symptoms: The primal symptom of this disease is skin rashes with thread-like coloured fibres coming out of the skin. A crawling sensation and intense itching in the affected area are also significant symptoms of this rare skin disorder.

• Treatment: Based on the underlying cause of the disorder, it is treated in two different ways. In case of bacterial infections, the treatment procedure often includes a round of antibiotics consumption. The Morgellons are quite often treated with antipsychotic medications as well. However, there is no such proper treatment of this disease yet. All of the medications are prescribed just to ease the troubles for the time being.

• Prevention: Morgellons is a poorly understood disease that does not have any such permanent cure options. Hence, there aren’t any ways to prevent it from affecting you. However, it is highly recommended to consult a doctor as soon as you notice open wounds on your skin without any cause and also if you experience tiredness and joint/muscle pain quite often.

3. Hidradenitis Suppurativa

• Description: This skin condition often leads to bumps on different parts of the body, which is quite painful. It occurs mainly during the time of puberty and is more common in females than males.

• Symptoms: One of the main symptoms of this skin disease is breakouts which look quite alike to a pimple. Some other symptoms of Hidradenitis Suppurativa also include painful and delicate nodules.

• Treatment: Treatment varies based on the seriousness of the case, the modes of treatment vary from person to person. Both medication and surgery are equally fruitful options for this rare skin disease.

• Prevention: Some of the most effective ways to avoid this skin trouble is by achieving a healthy body weight, opting to take warm baths and avoiding smoking habits.

4. Pemphigus

• Description: This autoimmune skin condition leads to sores and blisters in the throat, mouth or in the genital area. Even though it is caused mainly to older adults, it can also affect people at any age, but the chances increase with ageing.

• Symptoms: Pemphigus occurs in various types, and it depends solely on the place where it is affecting. The primary symptoms are blisters followed by fatigue, nail problems and burning sensations.

• Treatment: Similar to several other rare skin diseases, there are no permanent treatment options for Pemphigus. However, dermatologists often treat the symptoms and go ahead with the treatment in order to stop the further spread of the infection.

• Prevention: The cause of Pemphigus is yet to be found, and hence, there is no way you can take adequate prevention for this skin condition.

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your skin, it is best to get medical advice from a dermatologist to find the root cause of the troubles you are facing. Most of the rare skin diseases are inherited and often have a genetic link. That is why there are no proper modes of prevention for most of them to date.

Common Rashes: Types, Symptoms, Treatments, & More

Are you facing itchiness, redness, bumps, and irritation on your skin? Chances are it could be a rash on your skin that is causing it. As the skin is the largest organ of the body, it is susceptible to different types of rashes and other skin diseases. There are different types of rashes, all of which can cause a considerable amount of discomfort for the person suffering from it.

It is tough to get rid of any rashes, no matter which type it is. The wisest decision is to identify the skin condition as soon as you notice it so that it could be treated and cured immediately. Let us discuss all the details about identifying and treating some of the most commonly found skin rashes below.

5 Common Types of Rashes and Their Treatment

1.      Ringworm

• Description: One of the most common skin conditions or infections found in people is ringworm. It is caused by a fungus which also causes another skin condition known as athlete’s foot. Ringworm gets its name from the circular shape it forms on the skin, often becoming red and cracked.

• Symptoms: This type of skin rash is very itchy in nature and causes circular red areas on the skin in the affected areas. It can cause loss of hair, too, if it forms on the scalp.

• Treatment: The best way to treat this type of infection is to take oral medications as prescribed by your doctor. Anti-fungal creams can also help you treat this skin rash, but be sure to consult your dermatologist before.

• Prevention: This skin rash is contagious and can be caused by coming in touch with a person or surface that might contain this fungus. Avoid it by drying the groin area, skin folds and feet well.

2.     Eczema

• Description: Eczema is an umbrella term used for various types of skin conditions that cause flaky, red, dry and crusty skin due to lack of moisture. It usually forms on places like elbows, knees, hands and feet.

• Symptoms: Extremely itchy affected area. Other symptoms include dry, red and flaky patches of skin.

• Treatment: If you are showing any symptoms of eczema, you should immediately consult with your dermatologist. They can prescribe you anti-itch lotions, anti-fungal medicated soaps, fragrance-free, and non-dyed soaps that can help you cure the affected area.

• Prevention: You should avoid taking long and hot showers. You can apply moisturisers while your skin is still damp from the shower, as it will help the moisturiser penetrate through the skin quickly.

3.     Acne

• Description: Acne is the most common type of skin condition occurring among teenagers and adults worldwide. It is characterised by red bumps or pimples on the forehead, face, chest and shoulders. It is caused by excess accumulation of oil, sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells in the pores of your skin.

• Symptoms: Pimple-like red bumps often appearing along with blackheads, whiteheads and cysts. It can sometimes be itchy too.

• Treatment: It is wise to consult with your dermatologist, who might provide you with prescription medications for your acne, depending on the severity and your age. Medical methods such as chemical peels can also be used to treat your acne to remove the top layer of your skin.

• Prevention: Some of the most common ways you can prevent acne are by washing your face regularly with a gentle cleanser and using a moisturiser. Keeping your hands from touching your face often also helps with acne prevention.

4.      Psoriasis

• Description: Psoriasis is defined as discoloured, thick, sore and dry patches of flaky skin. It is sometimes silver and flaky in nature which causes plaques that might appear on places like the face, palms, knees, elbows, back and feet.

• Symptoms: Uneven raised plaques of skin, soreness, itchiness and a burning sensation.

• Treatment: Psoriasis cannot be totally cured, but you can reduce it by consulting with a dermatologist and getting a prescription or over-the-counter medication.

• Prevention: If you happen to have psoriasis in your genetics, you can keep it at bay by taking regular showers, moisturising your skin and getting sunlight regularly.

5.      Hives

• Description: Hives are defined as uneven, raised, itchy welts that can be found on your skin. It is pink, red or flesh-coloured, and it can be caused by an allergic reaction from medication or food.

• Symptoms: Pinkish, red or flesh coloured welts that suddenly appear on your skin.

• Treatment: Get the type of hives you have, identified by your dermatologist and get prescribed antihistamines. Avoid using hot water for a shower that might irritate hives.

• Prevention: Wear loose-fitted clothes and avoid humid areas.

Ending Note

It is advised to get your skin conditions treated immediately before it spreads even more and becomes uncontrollable. So, consider getting medical help if you are showing signs of any of the above-mentioned skin diseases.

Child Vaccination Chart

Vaccination is considered to be one of the greatest breakthroughs in the history of medical science. Vaccines are the most effective and trusted way to safeguard your children from the worst of contagious and deadly diseases.

A child’s immunity is very low when it is born and until the age of 12 years, they are highly vulnerable to contract severe bacterial and viral diseases. Certain diseases like hepatitis, HVP, diphtheria and rotavirus, can prove to be fatal for your child. However, these diseases are vaccine-preventable and once your child is immunized, there is a reduced possibility for your child to contract the disease. While the possibility cannot be completely ruled out, it can still prevent your child from dire consequences and serious complications. Timely vaccination ensures that your baby develops at least 90 percent immunity against the deadly and contagious diseases. Being a responsible parent, it calls for you to follow the child vaccinations schedule strictly, to ensure your child’s safety.

The following chart will act as a ready reckoner for you to follow strictly without missing out the timelines.

Age	Vaccines
At Birth	BCG vaccine for tuberculosis OPV vaccine for polio Hepatitis B vaccine
6-8 weeks	DTaP/DTwP- Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis vaccine Hib- Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine, Rotavirus, IPV- Injectable Polio Vaccine, Hep B-Hepatitis B Vaccine
10-16 weeks	DTaP/DTwP-Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis, Hib-Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine, Rotavirus, IPV-Injectable Polio Vaccine
14-24 weeks	DTaP/DTwP-Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis, Hib-Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine, Rotavirus, IPV-Injectable Polio Vaccine
6 months	OPV-Oral Polio Vaccine, Hep B-hepatitis B vaccine
9 months	OPV-Oral Polio Vaccine, Measles, MMR-Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine
9-12 months	Typhoid CV-typhoid conjugate vaccine
12 months	Hep A-Hepatitis A vaccine
15 months	PCV-Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine Booster, MMR-Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine
16-18 months	IPV-Injectable, Polio Vaccine, Hib-Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine, DTaP/DTwP-Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis
18 months	Hep A-Hepatitis A vaccine
2 years	Typhoid Booster
4-6 years	OPV-Oral Polio Vaccine, Typhoid Booster, DTaP/DTwP-Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis Booster
9-15 years (girls)	HPV- Human papillomavirus
10-12 years	Tdap/ Td-Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis vaccine

 Post vaccination care of your child

Vaccines usually contain the dead or inactivated agent, bacteria or virus, associated with the disease, and they help build antibodies inside the body which are strong enough to fight the infection. Post-vaccination care of your child is extremely important because certain mild reactions are very common after vaccination. The reactions basically are a result of the child’s body working harder to make antibodies. The most prominent symptoms noticed after vaccination are:

●        Redness at the site of injection

●        Swelling at the site of injection

●        Low-grade fever

●        irritability

●        Trouble in falling asleep due to pain

It is very important to comfort your baby during and after vaccination. Parents should stay nearby so as to calm your baby during the injection. If there is too much pain or redness on the injection site, you can use a numbing cream, to soothe your baby. Immediately after the injection shot is given, gently rub your child’s skin because a light massage can help dampen the pain of the injection. 

Generally, before the child turns 2, he has tolerated more than 20 shots of injection. You can also ask your doctor if there are combination vaccines available. In this, vaccinations for several diseases are combined into one shot so that the number of injections for your child are reduced. These include tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Dtap) vaccine, which are combined with the polio and hepatitis B vaccines, or the polio and haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines.

What To Eat During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is perhaps the most miraculous thing because a woman is producing a human being inside her womb. It is extremely important to keep a check on what you are eating during your pregnancy, so that your body gets all the requisite nutrients for the baby to develop and grow healthy. Making the right choices in eating is important to help your body deal with the major changes that are happening.

Ideally, an expectant mother’s diet should have a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Each nutrient has its own importance and contribution in helping build your baby.

1.     Calcium: It is extremely helpful in building strong teeth, bones, muscles and nerves of your baby. Gynaecologists usually prescribe calcium supplements to the expectant mother right from the second trimester because that is when your baby’s bones and muscles start to develop.

2.     Folic acid: It is another essential nutrient that saves the baby from any kind of neural tube defects. Doctors say that at least 600 micrograms of folic acid are essential for the expectant mother.

3.     Vitamin D: It helps to strengthen the immune system of the expectant mother.

4.     Iron: An expectant mother needs twice as much iron as the body normally does without pregnancy. This mineral helps in maintaining the haemoglobin levels in the body.

5.     DHA: It is an omega-3 fatty acid and plays a vital role in baby’s brain and eye development. Expectant mothers need at least 200 to 300 milligrams of DHA per day. 

Now that you understand which mineral and nutrient does what, it is important to have a balanced diet so that your intake is an ideal proportion of all the nutrients.

Let us list down some super-nutritious foods for you to accommodate in your meals, during pregnancy.

1.     Dairy Products: During pregnancy, your body demands some extra grams of protein and calcium, for your baby’s growing bones and even to keep your body muscles strong. Dairy products include milk, yoghurt, cheese and ghee and they should compulsorily be a part of your daily diet regime. Certain varieties of yoghurt also contain probiotic bacteria that help in digestion. 

2.     Legumes: Legumes are the most protein-rich source of food and includes peas, beans, chickpeas, soyabeans and lentils. They are also rich in folate, iron and fiber which are very essential for your body during pregnancy. Women often complain of constipation during pregnancy as legumes help to ease out that problem.

3.     Eggs: Eggs are a rich source of protein, fats and vitamins. They also have choline which is a form of vitamin B that the liver makes. It is extremely essential during pregnancy for your baby’s brain development and prevents abnormalities of the brain and spine.

4.     Leafy green vegetables: Leafy green vegetables are a rich source of almost all the nutrients that your body would need. They are loaded with iron, potassium, vitamins and calcium. They relieve constipation and are also associated with a low risk of underweight babies.

5.     Whole grains: They are a rich source of fibres and vitamins. Some whole grains like barley and wheat are also loaded with magnesium and vitamin B. You should make it a choice to include oats, quinoa, and brown rice in your daily meals.

6.     Dry fruits: Dry fruits are rich in calories, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. Just one serving of dry fruits can suffice for the daily prescribed requirements of vitamins, minerals, iron and potassium. Expectant mothers should add a small portion of mixed nuts in their daily diet regime.

7.     Bananas: They are a rich source of potassium which helps in maintaining good levels of blood pressure. Plus, they provide immediate energy whenever you feel a strong urge to eat something.

8.     Sweet potato: They're loaded with vitamin A and can serve for more than 4 times of your daily requirement. Vitamin A is essential during the first trimester when your baby starts to develop different organs and body parts.

9.     Salmon: Salmon is rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids that are very essential for baby’s growth. If you are fond of non-vegetarian food, you should make salmon a part of your diet as they aid in the development of baby’s brain and eyes. However, be cautious as fish also contains mercury and other contaminants, so avoid too much of its intake.

10. Water: Expectant mothers should stay hydrated because your body needs more water as the blood volume increases. The foetus also floats in water inside the womb hence, hydration gets passed onto your baby so you should strictly watch your water intake. Increased water intake also reduces the chances of urinary tract infections which are very common during pregnancy.

If you do not like a certain food item, try giving it a twist and you can have a whole lot of delicious items to even the most non-delicious things. Remember, your growing baby will take down everything you give to it so stay cautious about your eating choices.

Can Cataract Be Cured?

Cataract is one of the most common problems that affects your vision, during the later stage of life. It is a clouding that develops on the lens that lies behind the iris and pupil. The clouding begins to develop on the lens when proteins in the eye form a lump, thereby blocking the images that form on the retina. Retina sends the signals to the optic nerve and thereafter to the brain, as a result we see the clear image of everything. Cataracts generally do not block your vision initially, but slowly start to blur your vision. There comes a point when cataracts start to worsen and even hamper your daily activities. It affects both the eyes but not at the same time.

Some medical studies have identified the factors that are related to cataract during later stages of life. Some of factors include:

• Ultraviolet rays

• Hypertension

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Excessive use of corticosteroid medications

• Eye injury 

• Hormone replacement therapy

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• Myopia

• Family history

Prominent signs and symptoms of Cataract

Early diagnosis of cataract can save you from an impaired vision, thus it is important to understand the most notable signs that are caused due to cataract. The prominent symptoms of cataract are:

• Clouded and blurred vision

• Difficulty in seeing at night

• Sensitivity in eyes due to sharp lights

• Difficulty in reading in dim lights

• Observing faded and yellowness in colours

• Double vision in a single eye

Cure of Cataract

During the early stages of cataract, glasses with numbers can come to your rescue. But as the cataract starts to grow severe, surgery is the only cure. Cataract surgeries are by far the most safe and effective procedure, and can bring back your vision. Presently, there is no non-surgical procedure for curing cataracts. Certain studies claimed that some eye drops can slow down the progression of cataracts. It has been found that eyedrops can improve the lens transparency but no such trials have proved to completely cure cataract.

Cataract surgery is not a very long procedure and the healing process is also faster. However, since it is a surgical procedure, the risk of side-effects is always there. But there are no adverse effects and chances of chronic damage to your eyes is very low. Cataract surgery also has types depending upon the procedure your surgeon follows. Primarily, cataract surgery is done by making a small incision in cornea followed by another small incision in the capsule containing the lens. The lens is then broken using lasers or sound waves. The broken pieces are removed and a new lens is placed which is made up of silicone or plastic. The biological lens gets permanently removed and takes the place of your biological lens.

The whole surgical procedure may sound scary, but eye surgery has become a very common procedure these days. The surgery does not take much long and the whole process gets completed within 20 minutes after numbing your eye with anaesthesia. There are high chances of getting cataracts in both the eyes, and in cases where you need surgery in both the eyes, they are performed with one eye at a time.

 Cataract surgery is of the following types:

1. Small-incision surgery: Medically, this is also known as phacoemulsification. In this procedure, a small cut is made in the cornea and the ultrasound waves are used to break down the cloudy lens and replaced with an artificial one.

2. Large-incision surgery: This procedure is performed only in special cases where the cataracts are huge in size and the patient is suffering from a huge vision problem. Medically, this is also known as extracapsular cataract extraction. In this procedure, the lens is not broken down but rather taken out in a single piece and replaced with an artificial one. This surgery requires a little more time to heal.

3. Femtosecond laser surgery: In this procedure, a laser is used to break up the lens. This kind of procedure is performed on patients suffering from astigmatism, where a curve of the cornea makes your vision blurry.

Cataract surgery has a high success rate and studies have claimed that patients are able to see with a better vision, post- surgery. The recovery process is mostly smooth and within a few weeks, the patient can continue to do his routine activities. Surgeries involve risk, and some cases have been known to cause bleeding or infection in patients, but it is a rare sight.

Covishield vs Covaxin vs Sputnik vs Pfizer

Amidst the havoc that ongoing coronavirus pandemic has created, scientists around the world have brought a ray of hope in the form of vaccines, which is by far the only way to guard oneself, against the deadly disease. Vaccines train your immune system to recognize and attack the virus, because it is a form of infection that is injected into your body to strengthen your immunity.

Following are some of the most notable benefits of COVID-19 vaccine:

• The vaccine may not completely prevent you from catching the disease, but can save you from getting severely ill and reduce any further health complications.

• Since you are safeguarded from catching the virus, you do not act as a carrier, thus breaking the chain which slows down the spread of the virus.

• The virus does not replicate itself as much faster, thereby curbing the formation of any new mutations which are resistant to vaccines.

After several stages of clinical trials, FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and DGCI (Drug Controller General of India) have permitted the use of the vaccine for mass usage. The Indian government aims to vaccinate around 250 million people across the nation and the following vaccines have been permitted to be used for mass vaccination:

1.     Covaxin produced by Bharat Biotech

2.     Covishield produced Serum Institute of India

3.     Sputnik V produced by Gamaleya Institute, Moscow

4.     Pfizer-Biontech

Covishield

The vaccine has been produced by Serum Institute of India (SII). With more than 100 million doses already in the market, Covishield is provided to the government at Rs 200 per dose. Covishield vaccine course is given in two doses of 0.5ml each within a time span of 12 weeks. It can be used in emergency situations for individuals who are 18 years and above. For those who suffer from any kind of allergic reaction after taking the first dose of Covishield, should not be administered with the second dose.

Covishield is primarily the Indian version of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and is made from the weakened version of adenovirus. The virus is originally taken from Chimpanzees and further modified to replicate coronavirus. When the vaccine is injected into the person, it starts making antibodies and prepares the immune system to attack any kind of coronavirus.

Covaxin

It is claimed to be India’s first indigenous vaccine, developed by Bharat Biotech,  in close collaboration and guidance with ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research). Covaxin is developed using the inactivated vero cell derived technology. It consists of the dead virus which are unable to replicate aur mutate further, but are effective enough to make the immune system prepare for any attacks against the infection. The vaccine consists of a combination of immune-potentiators which are clinically proven to develop immunogenicity.

It is also a two-dose vaccine, to be given within a time span of 28 days. During clinical studies, Covaxin has demonstrated efficacy and effectiveness against the deadly virus.

Sputnik V

Sputnik V is produced by Moscow based Gamaleya Institute. The vaccine is developed using a cold virus as a carrier and a small fragment of coronavirus is injected into the body. It is a safe way of exposing the body to a genetically modified strain of coronavirus, so that the body prepares itself to fight against the deadly infection when contracted. Once the vaccine is injected into the body, the immune system starts making antibodies which are engineered to fight against coronavirus. Given the tropical climate and high temperatures in India, it wouldn’t be a challenge to transport and store Sputnik V as it requires around 2-8 degrees for storage.

Unlike the other two vaccines, Covishield and Covaxin, Sputnik V is given in two doses, but both are different jabs. Both the doses are developed with different vectors, to target distinctive spikes of the virus. This makes Sputnik V highly effective in fighting different mutants of the virus and provide much greater protection.

Pfizer-Biontech  

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has been authorized for emergency use by FDA under an Emergency Use Authorization to prevent the spread of COVID-19. It can be used in individuals aged 12 years or above. The formula of this vaccine includes introduction of lipid nanoparticles to the body that instructs the immune system to generate the spike protein that is found in coronavirus. The process triggers a response and anti-bodies are formed.

Side effects of COVID-19 vaccines

Following side effects can be observed in people who have been vaccinated with any of the above stated vaccines:

• Fatigue

• Nausea and vomiting

• Fever

• Headache

• Joint pain or body ache

• Lump or swelling at the injection site

Most side effects do not last for more than four days and it is very common to have observed one or more such side effects. They are generally the result of your immune system working harder to make anti-bodies. You should however consult your doctor if any of the side effects bother you or do not go away for a prolonged period.

Kidney Failure And Need Of Dialysis

The filters of our body, as we know them, are two bean-shaped organs and their primary function is to remove waste and fluid from our body. They also help in maintaining the blood pressure levels of the body and keep the body functions running. Also, kidneys produce hormones that aid further in the production of red blood cells.

Healthy functioning of kidneys is absolutely necessary to keep the blood clean from toxic wastes. It is important to understand that kidney diseases or kidney failure can prove to be fatal. Kidney failure usually leads to the following ailments in the body:

●       Insufficient or disrupted blood supply to the kidneys

●       Reactions to toxic substances or any kind of auto-immune attack on the kidneys

●       Obstruction during urine flow.

Some prominent symptoms of kidney failure include prolonged nausea, fatigue, tiredness and swelling on parts of the body.

When do you need dialysis?

Kidney failure is an alarming stage where only two procedures can cure the ailment: kidney transplantation or dialysis. As and when there are signs and symptoms of kidney failure, one should immediately start with dialysis. In many cases, kidney failure does not show any evident signs and symptoms but your lab results and GFR report show poor kidney function. In such cases, the doctor may start your dialysis to reduce the complications and chances of complete kidney failure.

How does dialysis help?

The procedure of dialysis is required when more than 90 percent of the kidney cannot function properly. The need for dialysis is also measured by the GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate), which measures the stage of kidney disease and how soon the dialysis needs to start. GFR tells your doctor about the current situation of your kidney functions and will accordingly plan your dialysis schedule.

Dialysis is a procedural way of filtering and purifying the blood and removing toxic waste from the body, using a machine. Basically, the dialysis machine replicates the function of kidneys to keep the body functions running.  Dialysis removes extra salt and other toxic wastes from the body thereby preventing its accumulation. It also helps in maintaining a certain level of important chemicals in the body such as potassium, sodium and bicarbonates.

Dialysis is of following two types and your doctor shall decide which one shall suit your body. This majorly depends upon the age and other comorbidities that you are suffering from.

1.     Hemodialysis: In this procedure, the blood of your body is filtered outside the body and then again put back in the body. In order to conduct this procedure, a minor surgery is done on your leg or arm, to make an entrance to the blood vessels. The blood is then passed through a hemodialyzer to remove the toxic waste.

2.     Peritoneal dialysis: In this procedure, the blood is cleaned and filtered inside the body with the help of a fluid that is injected into the body. The fluid is injected into the abdomen and it absorbs all the waste from the blood that passes through the abdominal cavity.

Can kidney failure be permanently cured?

Kidney failure is a kind of severe damage to your organs and may require prolonged treatment and dialysis, for the kidneys to function better. If the kidney failure is acute, the kidneys can get better after treatment or after certain sessions of dialysis. In cases of chronic kidney failure, the patient may have to depend on dialysis for the rest of their lives, since the kidneys are permanently disabled to function properly. In such cases, the only cure is kidney transplant.

Usually after starting dialysis, it may become a permanent part of your life. But you should always take care of your body with proper nutrition and a healthy diet to benefit from dialysis and to maintain healthy functioning of kidneys.