Skin (7 articles)
- Cellulitis.
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin that tends to occur in areas that have been damaged or inflamed. Treatment includes antibiotics.
- Cold sores.
Cold sores (herpes labialis) are a type of skin infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Symptoms include blistering on the lips, or around the mouth and nose usually after trauma, fever or stress. Cold sores are highly contagious, and can be spread even when blisters are not present.
- Impetigo - school sores.
Impetigo (school sores) is a highly contagious skin infection caused by two different bacteria, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. It is generally harmless, but can be serious for young babies. The infection is characterised by inflamed blisters that pop, weep and form crusts. Treatment options include antibiotic creams and tablets.
- Leg ulcers.
Leg ulcers or chronic venous leg ulceration are most often found on the lower leg and ankle. The most common cause is poor circulation. Age, varicose veins, smoking and arterial disease increase the risk of leg ulcers. Treatment options include compression bandages, dressings and surgery. Keeping the affected leg elevated above the level of the heart can help.
- Pityriasis rosea.
Pityriasis rosea is a skin rash that begins with a large scaled spot followed by clusters of smaller patches. It can last around six to eight weeks. There is no treatment to speed recovery, but the symptoms can be managed.
- Ringworm.
Ringworm is a flat, circular, fungal infection that can affect any part of the body. The incubation period lasts from one to three weeks, depending on the site of infection. Bathe regularly, ensure moist areas are dried thoroughly, and frequently launder clothing and linen in hot water.
- Shingles.
Shingles is a skin rash, caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox. It causes painful blistering which usually takes the shape of a 'belt' or band around the body. Shingles occurs because of a reactivation of the chickenpox virus, which remains in the nerve cells of the body after an attack of chickenpox.
- Tinea.
Fungi are plant-like organisms that grow best on living tissue. Given the right conditions, a fungal infection called tinea can attack the skin of the feet or groin. Treatment for this highly contagious infection includes antifungal medication and good hygiene practices.
- Tinea.
Tinea is a fungal infection which can infect people. Tinea can attack the skin of the feet or groin. Tinea is highly contagious and can be spread by skin-to-skin contact, or indirectly through towels, clothes or even floors. This infection is also known as ringworm, even though no worm is involved. Treatment includes antifungal medication and good hygiene practices.
