What are Skin Lesions?A skin lesion is anything that looks abnormal on the skin. The areas of the skin having lesions will look different from the other areas. They are bumpy or are patchy and can happen on any part of the body. It can happen in a small area or can cover a large part of the skin surface. It can be confined to one area of the body or is distributed across the body. Some of the types of lesions have rashes, cysts, blisters, or have pus-filled sacs. It can also harden the skin and be caused due to a wide range of issues. Skin Lesions SymptomsSome of the common symptoms that are typical of skin lesions are:
- Rashes which are itchy or even painful
- Skin becomes scaly or hardens
- Skin starts to peel
- Skin develops sores
- The skin has patches which are discolored
- Skin appears cracked or dry
- Develops warts or other types of skin growth
- Flushing excessively
- Color or size of the bumps changes
- Skin loses its pigmentation
In some instances, the skin lesions may be a sign of some life-threatening health condition. These symptoms include:
- High fever
- Decreased alertness, confusion, and fainting.
- Rashes coupled with fever or cough
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, choking, or inability to breathe.
- Swelling of tongue, lips, or face suddenly.
Who is at Risk?The risk factors for skin lesions are:
- People who are genetically predisposed have high chances of getting moles and freckles as it is hereditary.
- People who are exposed to harmful UV rays of the sun have an increased chance of skin lesions.
- People who have a history of allergies can get it
- People with an autoimmune disease like psoriasis can get this throughout their lives.
- People with skin disorders like vitiligo, eczema, lupus, etc are at risk of skin lesions.
- People suffer from skin lesions as an adverse effect of certain treatment
- People with sensitive skin suffer skin lesions due to cosmetics.
Skin lesions CausesThere are various causes of skin lesions. Some of the common causes are:
- It can be caused by viruses or bacteria. For example, a wart is passed from direct skin contact. Herpes virus which causes sores is passed through direct contact.
- It can be caused due to infections on the hair follicles or the skin.
- Allergic reactions like eczema also cause skin lesions.
- Acne which is caused due to clogging or blocking of dead skin cells can cause skin lesions.
- Chronic diseases like diabetes cause skin sensitivity leading to lesions.
- Autoimmune disorders can cause inflammation and lesions.
- Skin cancer or precancerous changes also leads to skin lesions.
How is Skin Lesion diagnosed?Skin lesions diagnosis is done by a skin lesions doctor who is also a skin specialist. It includes:
- Physical examination during which the size, type, color, shape, symmetry skin texture, and the surface is checked. The doctor also checks if the lesions are localized or distributed over many parts of the body.
- Blood tests: Blood tests are ordered to determine the WBC count in case of infections and eosinophil levels in case of allergies like hives.
- Skin biopsy: This is conducted if the doctor suspects melanoma. A skin sample is taken and tested in this biopsy. A swab of the lesions can also be taken and tested in a lab to get a diagnosis.
How is Skin Lesion Treated?Skin lesions treatment is based on the types of skin lesions and the cause. The doctor will also look into any previous medications taken, health history, etc before suggesting treatment options. It includes:
- Medications: Skin lesions cure will usually be topical medications to help reduce inflammation and other symptoms. If the cause of lesions is due to infections then oral medications are provided. Medicine for Skin lesions coupled with pain is provided.
- Skin lotions: Lotions are provided to reduce itching and burning. If chafing is caused due to clothing, powders and balms are prescribed to reduce friction and more skin lesions from happening.
- Surgeries: A plastic surgeon may perform surgery to remove moles that are changing over time and are suspicious. Other procedures include draining and lancing infected lesions.
Talk to our skin specialists at Cure.fit to get relief from skin lesions. Depending on the cause and type a suitable solution is suggested. Moreover, they are available for one-on-one consultations online! How can Skin Lesions be prevented?Skin lesions can be prevented by following the below preventive measures:
- Stay hydrated by drinking water
- Keep the skin moisturized and clean.
- Avoid overexposure to the sun and its harmful UV rays.
- Avoid any known triggers that can lead to skin lesions or allergic reactions.
- Do not share personal belongings like razors, towels, etc with others as it can cause infections.
- Practice yoga and meditation to reduce stress.
- If you have sensitive skin do not use unknown cosmetics as it can trigger skin lesions.