Skin Infections Archives - Page 3 of 3

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

What is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. Symptoms of RMSF include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash that spreads from the wrists and ankles to the trunk. If left untreated, RMSF can cause serious complications, such as damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial for a successful outcome.

What are the causes of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii. The bacterium is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks, typically the American dog tick and the Rocky Mountain wood tick. Once a tick attaches to the skin, it can take several hours for it to transmit the bacterium into the bloodstream. People who spend time in wooded or grassy areas where ticks are prevalent are at a higher risk of contracting RMSF. In addition, people who have outdoor occupations, such as farming, hiking, or camping, are also at an increased risk of exposure to infected ticks.

What are the symptoms of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?

The symptoms of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever typically appear 2-14 days after being bitten by an infected tick, and include:

Fever
Headache
Muscle pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Rash (usually appears 2-5 days after onset of symptoms and starts on the wrists and ankles before spreading to other parts of the body)

If left untreated, the disease can lead to serious complications, such as damage to the heart, brain, or other organs.

What treatments are available for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is treated with antibiotics. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for a favorable outcome. The most commonly used antibiotics for the treatment of RMSF are doxycycline for individuals of all ages, and chloramphenicol for very young children or pregnant women.

It is important to see a doctor if you suspect you have RMSF and to inform them of any recent tick bites. Treatment should be started as soon as possible to reduce the risk of serious complications.

How to Help Prevent Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?

Here are some ways to help prevent Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever:

Avoid tick-infested areas: Ticks are commonly found in wooded and grassy areas, so try to avoid these areas, especially during peak tick season (spring to early fall).
Use insect repellent: When spending time outdoors, use an insect repellent containing DEET or permethrin on exposed skin and clothing.
Wear protective clothing: When spending time in tick-infested areas, wear long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes. Tuck pants into socks to help prevent ticks from getting to your skin.
Check for ticks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks. Ticks can be as small as a pinhead, so be sure to check all areas, including hard-to-see spots like the scalp, under the arms, and in and around the ears.
Remove ticks promptly: If you find a tick on your skin, remove it as soon as possible. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight up with steady pressure.

By following these steps, you can help reduce your risk of getting infected with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

FAQ About Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

How is RMSF transmitted?

RMSF is transmitted by the bite of an infected tick, usually the American dog tick or the Rocky Mountain wood tick.

Where does RMSF occur?

RMSF occurs mainly in the United States, with the majority of cases reported in the southeastern and south-central states.

Who is at risk for RMSF?

Anyone who is bitten by an infected tick can get RMSF, but people who spend time outdoors, such as hikers, campers, and hunters, are at increased risk.

Is RMSF fatal?

RMSF can be fatal if not treated promptly, but with prompt treatment, the majority of patients recover completely.

How long does it take for symptoms to appear after being bitten by an infected tick?

Symptoms of RMSF typically appear 2-14 days after being bitten by an infected tick.

Can RMSF be passed from person to person?

RMSF is not passed from person to person, it can only be transmitted by the bite of an infected tick.

Is there a dermatologist near me in Austin that offers treatment for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?

Yes. At our Austin dermatology office we offer treatment for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever to patients from Austin and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)

What are Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)?

Ringworm is a fungal skin infection that affects the top layer of the skin and causes a circular, ring-shaped rash. The medical name for ringworm is Tinea Corporis, which refers to ringworm of the body. The rash can be itchy and can spread to other areas if not treated. Ringworm is a common and highly contagious skin condition that can be treated with antifungal medication.

What are the causes of Ringworm?

Ringworm is caused by a fungal infection. There are several species of fungi that can cause ringworm, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can infect the skin through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, animals, or other people. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, are at higher risk for developing ringworm. Additionally, poor hygiene, sweating, and wearing tight clothing can also increase the risk of getting ringworm.

What are the symptoms of Ringworm?

Rash: A round, red, and itchy rash that may be scaly, bumpy, or blistery.
Ring-shaped lesion: The rash forms a ring-like shape, which is why the condition is called “ringworm.”
Itching: The affected skin may be itchy and may become more itchy at night.
Blisters: In some cases, blisters may form on the rash.
Loss of hair: If the scalp is affected, hair may fall out in patches.

It is important to note that some people with ringworm may not experience any symptoms. If you think you may have ringworm, it is best to see a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What treatments are available for Ringworm?

The following treatments are commonly used for ringworm:

Topical antifungal medications: Over-the-counter creams and ointments, such as clotrimazole and terbinafine, can be applied directly to the affected skin to treat ringworm.
Oral antifungal medications: If the infection is severe or widespread, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications, such as itraconazole or fluconazole.
Antibiotics: In some cases, if a bacterial infection has developed in addition to the fungal infection, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the ringworm.

It is important to follow the instructions of the dermatologist or pharmacist when using any of these medications. Treatment typically lasts for several weeks and it is important to complete the entire course of treatment to ensure that the infection is fully treated. In some cases, the ringworm may return after treatment, so it is important to monitor your skin and seek medical attention if necessary.

How to Help Prevent Ringworm?

To help prevent ringworm, you can follow these steps:

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and keep your skin clean.
Avoid sharing personal items: Don’t share towels, brushes, combs, and other personal items that come into contact with your skin.
Keep your skin dry: Keep your skin dry, especially after exercising or sweating, as moisture can help the fungus grow.
Wear appropriate clothing: Wear clothing that covers your skin, especially in warm and humid environments.
Avoid contact with infected people or animals: If you come into contact with someone or an animal with ringworm, wash your hands thoroughly.
Clean contaminated surfaces: Clean surfaces that may be contaminated with ringworm, such as gym equipment, with a disinfectant.
Keep your living environment clean and dry: Make sure your home is clean and well-ventilated to prevent the growth of fungal organisms.

FAQ About Ringworm

How is ringworm transmitted?

Ringworm can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.

How long does it take for ringworm to go away?

The length of time it takes for ringworm to go away varies, but most cases can be treated within 4 to 6 weeks.

Can ringworm be prevented?

Yes, practicing good hygiene and avoiding direct contact with infected people or animals can help prevent the spread of ringworm.

Is ringworm contagious?

Yes, ringworm is highly contagious and can be easily spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.

Can ringworm spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, ringworm can spread from one part of the body to another if the affected area is not properly treated and covered.

What should I do if I think I have ringworm?

If you suspect you have ringworm, it’s important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Are there any home remedies for ringworm?

While some home remedies may help relieve the symptoms of ringworm, it’s important to seek medical treatment for proper and effective treatment. Over-the-counter creams or ointments may provide temporary relief, but they do not cure the infection.

Is there a dermatologist near me in Austin that offers treatment for ringworm?

Yes. At our Austin dermatology office we offers treatment for Ringworm to patients from Austin and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Lyme Disease

What is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is an infectious illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia Burgdorferi. It is most commonly spread through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, which are often found in tall grass and wooded areas. In some cases, the bacterium can also be transmitted through the bite of other species of ticks, as well as through contaminated needles or during blood transfusions.

What are the causes of Lyme Disease?

You contract lyme disease when you receive an infected deer tick bite. The bacteria enter your body through the bite and then make their way to your bloodstream. To transmit the illness, a tick must be attached to your skin and feeding for an extensive time period. The longer a tick goes undiscovered, the greater the risk of Lyme disease. You cannot catch Lyme disease from another person.

What are the symptoms of Lyme Disease?

Because Lyme disease can affect different parts of the body, not all cases show symptoms in the same way. Generally though, signs of Lyme disease include:

Red, bulls-eye like rash
Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills and fatigue
Intense joint pain and swelling
Neurological concerns, especially in untreated cases

What treatments are available for Lyme Disease?

The treatment for Lyme disease typically involves antibiotics, which can effectively cure the infection if given in the early stages. Common antibiotics used to treat Lyme disease include doxycycline, amoxicillin, and cefuroxime axetil.

In cases of early-stage Lyme disease, antibiotics are usually given orally and may be taken for several weeks. In more severe cases or in cases of late-stage Lyme disease, intravenous antibiotics may be required.

In addition to antibiotics, patients with Lyme disease may also be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve symptoms like joint pain and headaches.

It is important to note that some people may continue to experience symptoms even after treatment with antibiotics. This is known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS) and may require additional medical attention.

How to Help Prevent Lyme Disease

There are several steps you can take to help prevent Lyme disease:

Avoid tick-infested areas: Try to avoid spending time in tall grass or wooded areas, especially during peak tick season, which is usually from late spring to early fall.
Wear protective clothing: When spending time in areas where ticks are prevalent, wear long pants and sleeves, and tuck your pants into your socks to keep ticks from reaching your skin.
Use insect repellent: Apply an insect repellent containing DEET or permethrin to your skin and clothing to help keep ticks at bay.
Check for ticks: Regularly check your skin, clothing, and gear for ticks, especially after spending time outdoors. Remove any ticks you find promptly and carefully.
Maintain a tick-free yard: Keep your yard tidy and mow the lawn regularly to reduce the risk of ticks. You can also treat your yard with tick-killing chemicals and keep pets on tick preventive medication.
Seek prompt treatment: If you experience symptoms of Lyme disease, such as a bull’s-eye rash or flu-like symptoms, seek prompt medical attention. Early treatment is essential for preventing serious complications and ensuring a successful recovery.

By taking these preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of contracting Lyme disease and enjoy outdoor activities with peace of mind.

FAQ About Lyme Disease

How is Lyme disease transmitted?

The bacterium that causes Lyme disease is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks.

Can Lyme disease be transmitted from person to person?

There have been rare reports of transmission of the bacterium that causes Lyme disease through contaminated needles, blood transfusions, and sexual contact, but the primary mode of transmission is through tick bites.

What should I do if I think I have been bitten by a tick?

If you have been bitten by a tick, remove the tick promptly and carefully. If you develop symptoms of Lyme disease, such as a bull’s-eye rash or flu-like symptoms, seek prompt medical attention.

When should I see a dermatologist for Lyme disease?

If you develop a bull’s-eye rash or suspect you have been bitten by a tick, it is important to see a dermatologist promptly. A dermatologist can diagnose Lyme disease and provide appropriate treatment.

Is there a dermatologist near me in Austin that offers treatment for Lyme disease?

Yes. At our Austin dermatology office we offer treatment for Lyme disease to patients from Austin and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

An estimated 7.5 million Americans suffer with psoriasis, a non-contagious, chronic skin condition. Often identified by patches of red, scaly skin, psoriasis occurs when the immune system sends out incorrect signals that cause skin cells to grow too quickly. With psoriasis, cells build up on the top layer of skin, creating patches of itchy, dry skin. The most common locations for psoriasis are on the elbows, knees, or trunk, but it can develop anywhere on the body.

Psoriasis is thought to be an autoimmune disease, which arises from an overactive response by the body towards substances and tissues normally present in the body. In the case of psoriasis, white blood cells, called T cells, attack healthy skin as if to fight off infection or heal a wound. Instead of new cells moving to the outermost layer of skin in a normal manner, they develop more rapidly. The dead skin can’t slough off fast enough to keep up, so thick, scaly areas form on the skin’s surface.

Usually, the first occurrence of psoriasis happens sometime between ages 15 to 35. However, approximately 20,000 children under age 10 also live with psoriasis. Although psoriasis seems to have a genetic component, not everyone with that gene develops the disease.

What are the signs and symptoms of Psoriasis?

Each case differs based on the individual, but people with psoriasis often experience at least one of the following symptoms:

Burning, itching, or soreness
Cracked, dry skin that can bleed
Patches of red skin with silvery scales
Pitted, ridged, or thickened nails
Stiff, swollen joints

If you think that you could have psoriasis, contact your doctor and schedule a complete exam.

Triggers
Because psoriasis is chronic, anyone with the condition will live with a cycle of flare-ups and remissions over a lifetime. Typically, patients with psoriasis may develop initial symptoms or experience flare ups because of various triggers, including

Certain medications
Cuts, scrapes, burns, or other damage to the skin
Diet
Excessive alcohol use
Other infections such as strep throat
Smoking
Stress
Weather

What are the different types of Psoriasis?

There are six main types of psoriasis:

1) Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)
About 80 percent of people diagnosed with the disease have plaque psoriasis, or psoriasis vulgaris. Plaque psoriasis often appears as on the elbows, knees, and lower trunk in the form of raised, red lesions topped with silvery scales.

2) Guttate Psoriasis
Usually found on the limbs or trunk, guttate psoriasis primarily appears in patients younger than age 30. Guttate psoriasis presents as small, water-drop-shaped sores and can occur because of an illness or injury to the skin.

3) Inverse Psoriasis
With inverse psoriasis, patients develop smooth, shiny lesions that are bright red in color. Most often seen in people who are overweight, inverse psoriasis strikes the armpits, around the genitals, near the groin, and under the breasts.

4) Pustular Psoriasis
When you have pustular psoriasis, white blisters filled with pus and surrounded by red skin will appear either in localized areas or all over your body. Because the pus is made of white blood cells, it is not contagious. Certain things can trigger pustular psoriasis, such as irritating topical treatments, infections, overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, and stress.

5) Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Characterized by a fiery red rash coupled with extreme burning or itching, erythrodermic psoriasis is the least common kind of psoriasis. Triggers for erythrodermic psoriasis include severe sunburn, corticosteroids, other medications, or another type of psoriasis that has flared up.

6) Psoriatic Arthritis
In addition to causing pitted, discolored nails, psoriatic arthritis also presents with the swollen, painful joints that often accompany arthritis. Usually psoriatic arthritis isn’t as crippling as other forms of arthritis, but it can cause stiffness and progressive joint damage.

What treatments are available at the dermatologist for Psoriasis?

Currently, no cure exists for psoriasis. Treatments are designed to minimize discomfort and encourage healing. When determining the best treatment, your doctor will take into account the severity of the psoriasis. Mild to moderate psoriasis covers 3 to 10 percent of your body, while psoriasis is considered moderate to severe when it covers more than 10 percent.

Treating Mild to Moderate Psoriasis
If you have mild to moderate psoriasis, your doctor will likely recommend a combination of over-the-counter medications, prescription topical treatments, and light therapy/phototherapy.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
The two active ingredients in over-the-counter medications approved by the FDA for psoriasis are coal tar, which inhibits the quick overgrowth of cells, and salicylic acid, which makes the outer layer of skin shed. Other OTC treatments may help, like:

Scale lifters to loosen and eliminate scales so that medicine can penetrate the sores
Bath solutions, such as Epsom salts, Dead Sea salts, or oilated oatmeal, that reduce itching and remove scaling
Occlusion, which covers the areas treated with topical treatments applications, to improve absorption and effectiveness
Anti-itch products like calamine lotion or hydrocortisone creams
Moisturizers to keep skin hydrated, reduce symptoms, and encourage healing

Prescription Topicals
Designed to inhibit the overgrowth of cells and lessen inflammation, prescription topicals include:

Anthralin, which reduces the skin cell growth related to plaque
Calcipotriene will flattens lesions, removes scales, and slow cell growth. Often used in treatment of psoriasis on the scalp and nails.
Calcipotriene and Betamethasone Dipropionate. By combining Calcipotriene with betamethasone dipropionate, this treatment addresses the itch and inflammation common to psoriasis as well as flattening lesions, removing scales, and minimizing cell growth.
Calcitriol, an active form of vitamin D3, helps limit extraneous skin cell production
Tazarotene, a topical retinoid that slows down cell growth
Topical steroids are the most commonly used medications for psoriasis, and they work by reducing inflammation, swelling, and redness

Phototherapy (light therapy)
Exposure to ultraviolet light can provide relief from psoriasis. With careful monitoring, the UVA and UVB rays from the sun can reduce symptoms. Excimer lasers treat specific areas affected by psoriasis, while pulse dye lasers provide not only targeted treatment, but also destroy the blood vessels that promote the development of psoriasis.

Treating Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
For patients with moderate to severe psoriasis, treatment involves prescription medications, biologics and phototherapy (light therapy).

Prescription Medications
Based on the location, severity, and type of psoriasis, your doctor will prescribe an oral medication, such as acitretin, cyclosporine and methotrexate.

How does psoriasis affect your nails, eyes, and joints?

Nails: Psoriasis can cause changes in the appearance and structure of the nails, such as pitting, discoloration, thickening, loosening, or crumbling. These changes can affect the function and comfort of the nails, as well as the self-esteem of the person with psoriasis.
Eyes: Psoriasis can cause inflammation in the eyes, leading to a condition called uveitis. Uveitis can cause symptoms such as eye pain, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, or floaters. If left untreated, uveitis can damage the eye and impair vision.
Joints: Psoriasis can cause inflammation in the joints, resulting in a type of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis can cause symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, or deformity. Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is more common in the fingers, toes, spine, and pelvis. Psoriatic arthritis can also affect the tendons and ligaments that attach to the bones.

FAQ About Psoriasis

Can psoriasis affect other parts of the body besides the skin?

Psoriasis can affect other parts of the body besides the skin, such as the nails, scalp and joints. In some cases, it may also be associated with other conditions such as psoriatic arthritis.

Can certain foods trigger psoriasis?

Certain foods, such as processed foods, alcohol, and gluten-containing foods, may trigger psoriasis in some individuals. It’s important for people with psoriasis to work with a dermatologist or a dietitian to identify any specific food triggers and to develop a diet plan that works best for them.

When should I see a dermatologist for psoriasis?

If you have symptoms of psoriasis, such as red, scaly patches on the skin, it’s important to see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. A dermatologist can also help to develop an individualized treatment plan and provide guidance on how to manage the condition. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should also consult with a dermatologist.

Is there a dermatologist near me in Austin that offers treatment for psoriasis?

Yes. At our Austin dermatology office we offer treatment for psoriasis to patients from Austin and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

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