Swollen cheeks happen for various reasons. But whatever be the cause, it is not aesthetic to walk about with cheeks that are swollen and look like the gular fold of an agama lizard. Inasmuch as a swollen cheek can alter your beauty, do not fret, because each of the causes has its treatment.

In this post, we shall talk about what is swollen cheek, where they occur, symptoms, causes, treatment, how to reduce swelling quickly, how to treat them naturally, and how long they last. Be sure you pay attention to details and ask questions at the end of the post, using the comment box. One of our staff will get in touch with you within 48 hours to address your concerns.

What is Swollen cheek?

Picture of Swollen Cheek

A swollen cheek occurs when the cheeks become larger than normal or there is a lump in the cheek. Apart from that, swelling could result from fluid accumulation in the tissues of the cheeks. Mild swelling of the cheek could be as a result of recent surgery or recent injury and should not give you much concern as they usually go away within a short time even without any special intervention.

When the swelling is mildly bothersome or is not accompanied by much pain, you could take over-the-counter medications or apply cold compresses to address the inflammation and pain. But for conditions that look like acne, cyst or infection, consult a doctor for proper investigation and treatment.

For serious cases that come with sudden swelling of the face, tongue or lips or where there is difficulty breathing, you should see the doctor immediately as the problem may be a result of severe allergic reaction. Some cases of swollen cheeks are due to viral infection of the salivary glands in the neck, a medical condition known as mumps.

Where does Cheek Swelling occur?

Cheek swelling takes place in the cheek. There is usually a distention or enlargement of the cheek or a lump due to fluid accumulation in the tissues of the cheek. Swelling can occur on just one side (swollen right or left side), upper or lower part, or inside the mouth, depending on the root cause. It can also occur on both sides. It can be mild or severe swelling with or without pain.

Occasionally, there could be swollen cheek under eye, swollen neck, jaws, gums, glands, lips, lips, or near the ear. In some cases, the swelling is accompanied with other symptoms like redness, jaw pain, sore throat, rash, fever, gum infection, tooth pain, and a feeling of being sick. Both children (babies, infants and toddlers) and adults can be affected.

Symptoms

Cheek swelling could come with various symptoms, noticeably:

• Red or warm skin
• Bleeding or bruising
• Lumps on the face
• Itchy eyes
• Hives
• Tooth pain
• Red or pink bumps on the face
• Itchy, dry or oily skin
• Ear pain
• Rash
• Jaw pain
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Eye pain
• Shortness of breath, wheezing or labored breathing

Causes

Swollen cheek results from different causes among which are:

• Trauma: Injury to the cheek can cause bleeding and swelling. Penetrating trauma or blunt force trauma can result in swelling of the cheek. When cosmetic procedures are performed on the cheeks, they can also lead to trauma and consequently swelling.
• Edema: It is a medical condition in which there is swelling of the cheeks following the accumulation of excess fluids in the tissues. Sometimes, they are caused by failure of some body organs.
• Infections: Bacterial and viral infections can also bring about the swelling of the cheek or the entire face. It could also come from canker sore. One of the commonest infections that cause cheek swelling is mumps, a viral infection that affects the salivary glands. Cellulitis from bacterial infection can also contribute to swollen cheek.
• Pimple: cheek swelling can also be due to pimple on the cheek, especially if they are pressed or cut and get infected or inflamed.
• Cheek cancer: Malignant tumors of the cheek can equally cause mild to massive cheek swelling.
• Allergic reaction: When there is allergic reaction to certain medications, food, makeup, and other substances, the cheeks could be swollen. Swollen cheek can also result from mosquito bite.
• Lymphadenopathy: An enlargement of the lymph nodes can invariably bring about the swelling of the cheeks. This also causes ear pain.
• Tooth extraction: Swelling could accompany tooth extraction. This hurts to open the mouth especially a few hours after the extraction. In some cases, you could have swollen cheek after dental cleaning.
• Sebaceous cyst: This results from the damage or blockage of the sebaceous gland or ducts (where sebum is secreted) due to injury or surgery. It can also be due to deformed duct or certain genetic conditions.
• Rosacea: This is a chronic redness of the skin and also makes the cheeks swell sometimes.
• Tooth abscess: With tooth abscess, there is massive swelling of the cheek and this also hurts to open the mouth. Boils commonly lead to a swollen cheek too.
• Keloid: This is the formation of excessive scar tissue in areas where the skin is injured. Excessive growth of keloid tissue can lead to swollen cheek.
• Malnutrition: This is one of the causes of swollen cheek in children. It is quite common in children suffering from kwashiorkor.

Treatment

The treatment of swollen cheek depends on the cause of the problem. Here are some ways to treat the problem:

• Antibiotics: These are employed in the treatment of cellulitis, boils, tooth abscess or other forms of bacterial infections. Amoxicillin, cephalexin, and dicloxacillin are quite helpful in managing the problems. Clindamycin is a good alternative for patients who are allergic to penicillin.
• Antiallergenic: Where the problem has resulted from allergic reactions, it is wise to use antiallergenic drugs to manage it. Parenteral or topical antihistamines can be used. If the allergy resulted from mosquito bite, topical application may suffice. Hydrocortisone injection works fast for allergic reaction. Epinephrine is also very effective especially for insect bites with serious reactions.
• Anti-inflammatory: This may be needed to control swelling due to trauma, surgery or burns. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen should be enough.

Pictures of Swollen Cheek

How does swollen cheek looks like? Take a look at these below pictures of swollen cheek in children and adults…

Picture of swollen cheek in children

Picture of Swollen Cheek in adults

Cheek Swelling in adults

How to Reduce Swelling Quickly

As we have earlier noted, cheek swelling comes from different causes. Therefore, to properly reduce swelling, the cause must be duly considered. The following can be helpful:

• Ice pack: This is really efficacious in managing fresh traumas. With the application of ice, the surrounding blood vessels are constricted to minimize hematoma.
• Over-the-counter drugs: A few OTC medications like ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen help in reducing inflammation and consequently lessen swelling.

How to Treat Swollen Cheek Naturally

Swollen cheek can be treated naturally to reduce the pain and swelling. Some of the steps you could take at home include:

• Cold compresses: Applying cold compresses is fast in relieving swelling.
• Hot compresses: This improves blood circulation and reduces swelling. Apply the warm compress over the cheek 2 to 3 times daily.
• Water intake: The body compensates for fluid shortage by retaining fluids. But when you increase fluid intake throughout the day, you can prevent this.
• Mustard oil: Applying mustard oil over the affected site can help in lessening the swelling.
• Cucumber and lemon juice: Dip a few slices of cucumber in lemon juice for a few hours before applying to your face for at least 15 to 20 minutes.
• Potatoes: chop a medium size potato into thin slices and place the slices over the swollen cheek. Allow it to stay for 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat it up to 2 or 3 times daily.
• Dandelion: The roots of dandelion have anti-inflammatory properties and so, can be helpful in controlling swelling, though scientific support for the claim is still limited. 1 or 2 teaspoons of 1:5 root tinctures should be taken.
• Reduce salt intake: Since sodium is known to retain fluid in the body, cutting down on salt intake will help in reducing facial swelling or cheek swelling as the case may be.

How long does a Swollen Cheek last?

How long a swollen cheek lasts depends on the cause of the swelling. Swelling resulting from wisdom teeth removal will start to subside in about 3 -4 days after the extraction. The body begins to heal itself, fight off infection and control pain within this period. Complete healing will usually vary from person to person depending on medical history and age. Total healing will occur in about one week if there are no complications or infections.

After a jaw surgery, swelling gradually starts in about two days and climax in about a week. So, the swelling should last from four days to one week.

If there is a swollen cheek after eating, it is usually due to allergic reaction to the food you have just eaten. The use of anti allergic tablets or injection will control swelling within a matter of minutes. While injections, nasal spray and inhalers start reducing swelling in less than 10 minutes, the effects of tablets can be noticed in about 30 minutes or more.

Conclusion

A swollen cheek is caused by several factors and can either be mild or severe. It takes a few days to resolve and you can resume your normal daily activities. However, swelling caused by cancer will not resolve by itself unless the root cause is treated.

No matter what makes your cheek to swell, the condition can be treated medically and there are home remedies to apply in order to quickly put the situation under control. But if your swelling refuses to go after applying the tips in this post, it is better to see a doctor for further investigation and treatment.

Walking about with peeled lips can be aesthetically challenging sometimes. Boys can manage to put up with this kind of medical condition but certainly, not the girls. Apart from the hairs, one other natural endowment girls cherish so much is their lip. So, when the lips peel off, this can easily dampen the self-esteem of the women and keeps them off public functions.

Though peeling of the lips otherwise referred to as exfoliative cheilitis is a bit difficult to treat, there are a lot of home remedies you can apply to lessen the symptoms and help to improve your physical look. In this post, we shall take a look at what is exfoliative cheilitis, how it looks like, symptoms, causes, treatment, home remedies, prevention, surgery, and diet.

What is Exfoliative cheilitis?

Cheilitis refers to a condition where the lips peel off, or are inflamed. Exfoliative cheilitis is a skin condition that involves chronic peeling off and chapping of the lips. It leaves the raw lip exposed which may cause a lot of pain and discomfort. The lips also feel itchy and occasionally have a burning sensation.

Picture of Exfoliative cheilitis

This condition is known to recur continuously over a long period of time. This makes it a very painful and embarrassing repetitive situation. Exfoliative Cheilitis occurs mainly in adults below the age of 30, in both males and females. It is, however, more common in girls.

The condition can occur on its own or it may be a result of other underlying body conditions. It is important to seek medical attention when it occurs, in order to establish an effective plan for treatment.

How does Exfoliative cheilitis look like?

A person who has exfoliative cheilitis has dry chapped lips that are always peeling. This condition may affect one lip or both, but most commonly affects the lower lip. Generally, it looks like the lips are shedding skin. The skin below the peels is bright pink and very sensitive. Sometimes there is some bleeding as open wounds are left where the lips peel.

Symptoms

Here are some of the most common symptoms of exfoliative cheilitis:

• Continuously peeling lips
• Dry lips
• Formation of sores on the lips
• Discoloration of the lips
• Extreme sensitivity to pain
• Irritation and burning sensation on the lips
• Swelling of the lips
• Cracking of the lips
• Bleeding from cracks and sores
• Overgrowth of the candida yeast that is characterized by a green or yellow substance on the lips.

Causes

Doctors have been unable to establish a clear cause of this condition. A few factors, however, are considered as major triggers of exfoliative cheilitis. They include:

• Factitious damage – This refers to a self-induced disorder where a person deliberately fakes and produces signs and symptoms of a particular disease, afterwards resuming the role of the patient. It is a self-destroying habit that leads to damage on the skin. In factitious cheilitis, it is characterized by biting, sucking, picking and licking of the lips, and also breathing using the mouth. This gradually leads to exfoliative cheilitis.
• Poor oral hygiene – If one does not brush their teeth or use mouthwash, bacteria in the mouth multiply and affect the body adversely. Chapped lips are one such effect, along with bad breath.
• Dehydration – Lack of enough water in the body quickly leads to a dry mouth and consequently, dry lips. Dry lips peel off quickly if not moisturized fast.
• Overgrowth of candida fungus or yeast – Candida yeast (Candida albicans) usually exists on the human skin as a normal flora without causing any harm to it. However, some factors such as hormonal imbalances or intake of some medicines and supplements lead to growth of too much candida fungus. This leads to a yeast infection that eventually causes exfoliative cheilitis.
• Nutritional deficiency – Occurs in a primary and secondary stage. The first stage involves lack of intake of essential minerals in the body. The secondary stage is a result of improper absorption of nutrients by the small intestines. Iron deficiency leads to poor formation of keratin which consequently leads to the shedding of lip skin.
• HIV – People with HIV have a weak immune system that leaves their bodies vulnerable to a variety of diseases, including yeast infection leading to exfoliative cheilitis.
• Depressed immunity – The body develops a deformity where it treats keratin as a foreign substance and removes its tissue to stop its formation. This tissue removal results to peeling of lips.
• Excess psychological stress and trauma
• Allergic reactions
• Pollution
• Insect bites

Can Exfoliative cheilitis be cured?

There may be no clear cure for this particular skin condition, but there are a few things one can follow up on to reduce its adverse effects.

There have been claims, however, of cure by use of:

• Pot marigold or common marigold (Calendula officinalis)
• Topical tacrolimus

Treatment

Exfoliative cheilitis has proven to be resistant to treatment. Unless it is a result of other body ailments, the only way to treat it is to minimize its effects.

In other cases, however, patients have had to undergo surgeries and laser treatment due to unbearable pain, or a very unpleasant look. These surgeries include electrocautery, cryosurgery, photodynamic therapy and scalpel vermilionectomy. Laser treatment has proven to be most effective as it leaves no scars.

Pictures of  Exfoliative cheilitis

Collection of Photos, Images and Pictures

Home remedies

Here is a small list of home remedies that can help alleviate peeling lips:

• Application of coconut oil
• Glycerin and milk cream paste
• Lotions and creams with lactic acid
• Use of natural lip balms
• Soft dabbing with vinegar and water
• Application of olive oil
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Application of lemon juice
• Application of pineapple juice
• Sunscreen
• Milk and rose petals paste

Prevention

• Drink a lot of water and other fluids like fruit juices to avoid dehydration.
• Protect your lips from any form of pollution. For instance, you can cover your lips with a scarf in presence of polluted air.
• Use lip products that are authentic and right for your skin type
• Ensure that you maintain a healthy sleeping cycle. Don’t sleep for less than 6 hours, and don’t replace your sleep with work.
• Practice oral hygiene. Brush at least twice every day and use mouthwash to get rid of bacteria in the mouth.
• Practice healthy eating. Make sure you take a balanced diet with all nutrients and minerals required for body growth and development.
• Take supplements to boost levels of iron in the body and prevent vitamin deficiency.
• Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables to boost the levels of vitamins and iron in the body.
• People suffering from HIV should take ARVs as prescribed in order to strengthen their immune systems and ward off any opportunistic diseases such as exfoliative cheilitis.
• Those undergoing stress, trauma or depression should seek psychological help as soon as possible to help avoid self-destructive patterns and conditions such as factitious cheilitis.
• Apply hydrating lip balms often to keep the lips moisturized.
• Take the appropriate medication in case of allergic reactions.

Surgery

The following are a few surgeries that have been performed in attempt to treat exfoliative cheilitis. It is worth noting that there have been very few reports of success as the condition keeps recurring even after surgery.

Cryosurgery – This involves use of very cold temperatures to remove defective skin or tissue. Liquid nitrogen is applied on the lips. The shedding tissue then comes off and is later replaced by a healthy tissue that does not peel off.

Photo dynamic therapy – This refers to the destruction of damaged tissue by use of a drug that is activated by exposure to certain wavelengths of light. The drug is applied on the lips, given some time to reach the tissue then it is finally exposed to controlled amounts of light that destroy the tissue. A new healthy tissue is usually expected to grow and replace the damaged one.

Electrocautery -This involves using needles that are electrically heated to remove the lip tissue by burning it. Blood vessels are burned in order to prevent too much bleeding.

It would be very painful and pointless to go through an entirely expensive and excruciating surgical process in an effort to cure peeling lips, only for them to start peeling again after recovery. It would therefore be deemed wise to consider other available and less painful options before deciding on a surgery.

Diet

Anyone suffering from exfoliative cheilitis should have well balanced diets that have all the crucial minerals and nutrients that the body needs such as vitamins, carotene and fatty acids. They are important for body growth, development and boosting of the immune system. Iron and vitamins should be present in high quantity. If they are absent, supplements should be taken.

Here is a recommended diet for anyone experiencing this skin condition:

• Omega-3 capsules
• Berries
• Citrus fruits
• Mangoes
• Papayas
• Flax seeds
• Brussels
• Broccoli
• Organic fish, chicken and beef
• Organic kale and spinach
• Apple cider vinegar
• Beans
• Peanut butter

It is important to avoid too much sugar and carbohydrates. Caffeine and alcohol dehydrate the skin and should be avoided too, along with other low nutrient foods.

Conclusion

It is important to note that exfoliative cheilitis is not a life threatening condition. In most cases, it will only result to peeling off and extreme sensitivity of the lips. It is important, however, to have it diagnosed as it could be a symptom of a more serious body condition. To avoid it, one should practice good oral hygiene and good eating habits. Iron and vitamins are essential in preventing this kind of skin condition. One should also avoid licking and picking on their lips as it leads to chronic chapping and shedding of the lip tissue.

Meanwhile, as more research is being conducted to establish a viable cure, every individual is advised to take care of their own bodies by practicing healthy living.

Everyone loves to eat and enjoy the taste of the food he is eating. Unfortunately, bumps on tongue can interfere with your taste buds’ ability to interpret the proper taste of your food, no matter how tasty the food may be. However, the natural bumps on the your tongue do not cause this distortion but when something goes wrong with the bumps, they change in size and cause pain as well as swelling and inability to taste food.

In this post, we shall talk about what those bumps on your tongue are, symptoms, causes of bumps on tongue, treatment, and how to deal with bumps on tongue. Make sure you do not miss anything as you read through this post. Reserve your questions for the end of the post and one of our staff will get in touch with you within 48 hours to address your concerns.

What are those tiny bumps on my tongue?

Picture of small red bumps on tongue

Naturally, the tongue has small bumps called fungiform papillae that cover it on the top and sides. They are usually the same color as the tongue which makes them almost impossible to see. These small bumps contain taste buds and temperature sensors that connect to the nervous system. In addition, they make the tongue rough which makes it easy to roll food in a bolus when eating. If the tongue was smooth, the mouth would be very slippery and food would be swallowed before it is chewed properly.

Sometimes, however, the small bumps swell up and become very painful. While doctors and scientists are unable to explain the exact cause of this swelling, it is attributed to irritation of the papillae by intake of very acidic, sugary or salty foods. It is also known to be caused by splitting of taste buds that are located in the papillae. This condition is commonly referred to as ‘Lie Bumps’, according to a common myth that attributes it to telling lies. The scientific name, however, is transient lingual papillitis.

This condition is very common, with more than half of all people experiencing it at least once in their lifetime. It usually clears in a few days without medication. In other serious cases however, Lie bumps may accompany other more serious body illnesses. These are usually caused by viruses. It may be a sign of an STD such as Herpes or Syphilis.

Symptoms

At this advanced stage, this condition is known as eruptive lingual papillitis. Here are some of the major symptoms:

• Extremely painful swellings on the tongue that look like pimples
• Pain, itching or burning sensation on the tongue, when or after eating or drinking. It may also be experienced even when not eating or drinking, and also after throwing up.
• Circumvallate papillae (red swellings or bumps at the back of the tongue)
• Sore throat
• The swelling may also spread to the tonsils, resulting to Tonsillitis.
• Change in the ability to taste sweet, sour or bitter foods
• A constant bad taste in the mouth
• Swollen gums which may make brushing difficult. This, together with pus and other liquids that may ooze from the sores and infected bumps, lead to bad breath.
• Fever
• Lymph gland enlargement
• Excessive saliva production
• Pain when moving the tongue

Causes of Bumps on tongue

The causes of mild lie bumps are not yet established, but the less painful ‘pimples’ are attributed to irritation of the papillae by extremely spicy, acidic, salty or sugary foods.

The more advanced form, however, is caused by viruses. It is usually contagious and occurs mainly in children and can also be found in a toddler.

Other known causes include:

• Human Papillomavirus (HPM) – While there is no well-known treatment, the symptoms can be addressed before progressing. Bumps can be removed through surgical procedures and laser treatment.
• Tongue injuries – These result from activities such as tongue biting or chewing hard things. It may also be a result of brushing roughly.
• Mouth cancer – This produces lumps on the side of the tongue but occurs very rarely. The sores are usually gray, pink or red, and bleed very easily. Once diagnosed, mouth cancer is treated via chemotherapy, surgery or radiation.
• Poor mouth hygiene – food particles and bacteria can lead to inflammation of the papillae, which eventually leads to bumps on the tongue.
• Oral thrush – This is caused by a fungus called candida which is usually present in controlled amounts in the mouth and digestive tract. The population, however, may be altered by certain factors such as antibiotics, hormones and birth control pills. Excess candida may cause a thrush on any part of the body affected. In the mouth, it produces bumps and sores. It is prevalent in children, smokers and women, especially those who use birth control medications and also during pregnancy.
• Tongue infection – Some tongue piercings can get infected and cause swelling of the papillae.
• Canker sores – These are red sores that occur all over the mouth but can heal in a few days without treatment.
• Allergic reaction – In most cases, the whole tongue usually swells. In other cases, it results to bumps all over the tongue. It may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, itching and vomiting.
• Mental stress and trauma

Treatment

Bumps on the tongue are treated differently, depending on their cause. Others like Lie Bumps clear in a few days without any treatment. One could also use some home remedies and over-the-counter drugs to fasten the healing process.

If they persist for more than two weeks, it is advisable to seek medical attention. As mentioned earlier, bumps on the tongue could be symptomatic to other underlying body conditions such as mouth cancer or onset of an STD that may be serious in nature, and may require prompt treatment.

Usually, the doctor will take a specimen of the tongue bump and observe it under powerful microscopes in order to identify the cause. He will then prescribe the appropriate medicine, or conduct more tests depending on the result.

Pictures of Bumps on Tongue

List of Images, Photos, Pictures of Bumps on Tongue…

How to deal with Bumps on tongue

Here are a few effective ways of dealing with and preventing tongue bumps:

• Rinsing the mouth with salt water – rinsing the mouth with a warm mixture of salt and water or baking soda will help relieve the pain and temporarily eliminate the burning sensation as it clears bacteria present on the tongue surface.
• Gargling – This is most effective if one experiencing a sore throat.
• Practicing good oral hygiene – One should brush their teeth often and use mouthwash at least once a day. This will remove food particles and bacteria that inflame the papillae.
• Icing the sore reduces the pain and burning sensation.
• Healthy eating – One should also avoid foods that are too acidic, spicy, salty and sugary. This minimizes irritation of the papillae
• One can also take some OTC treatments to minimize the pain, for instance, painkillers.
• Take a lot of water to avoid dehydration that may be caused by symptoms like vomiting and sweating due to fever.
• Smoking and intake of alcohol (especially the types with high concentration) should be minimized. They act as irritants to the papillae.
• Eat soft and cool foods to avoid irritating the papillae. It is also advisable to avoid rough treatment on the tongue by brushing hard, opening bottles and cracking hard nuts with the teeth. These could lead to biting the tongue which later results to bumps.
• Tongue piercings should be done by professionals with high health standards. This minimizes risks of infection on the healing wounds. Piercings that are already infected should be removed and disinfected accordingly.

Conclusion

Bumps on the tongue are natural and are present in every human being. Lie bumps are common and may clear in a short time without treatment. If they are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and a change in ability to taste, one should consult a doctor as they may be caused by viruses invading the body. The viruses may cause other serious illnesses such as syphilis, and are usually contagious. They occur mostly in children. The best way to prevent lie bumps and the other advanced conditions is by observing oral hygiene and eating healthy foods that are not too acidic, salty or sugary.

Rough skins with pimple-like bumps do not give you a good outlook. Instead they alter the smoothness of your face or other parts of the body and keep you worried most of the times. Come to think of it, who really want to look ugly? Unfortunately, some medical conditions like keratosis pilaris offer you what you never bargained for.

If you are a victim of this condition or you know of anyone who is suffering from it, you should worry less because the problem is not as serious as you think. It is manageable. In this post, we shall present you all the information you need to enable you take a good care of yourself and lead a normal life.

What is Keratosis Pilaris?

This is a skin condition that is brought about by excessive production of keratin by the body. Keratin is a protein substance produced and deposited on the outer layer of the skin in order to protect it from damage, harmful ultraviolet light, and microorganisms that may invade the body, like bacteria.

Picture of Keratosis pilaris

When the body produces excess keratin, it is deposited around hair follicles on the skin, leading to the formation of small bumps that may look like pimples. These make the skin feel very rough. This condition is then referred to as keratosis pilaris.

It is a very common skin condition and poses no real threat to life. It may, however, be a symptom of an underlying body ailment.

Keratosis Pilaris may look like other skin conditions like acne, eczema, and xerosis. A close variant is follicularis faciei et colli. It is thought to have genetically originated from keratosis pilaris. Its symptoms include extreme darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation), hair loss, discoloration of the face and neck, and blocking of hair follicles. Other diseases that may look like keratosis pilaris are milia, folliculitis, lichen spinulosus, keratosis follicularis and perforating folliculitis.

How Does Keratosis Pilaris Look like?

Keratosis pilaris is characterized by many small bumps on the skin that may be mistaken for pimples. The skin may feel very rough, almost like sandpaper. The affected part looks like the skin of a goose or a plucked chicken, which has led to the condition being otherwise known as chicken skin.

In addition, blood vessels on the affected skin dilate towards the surface, making the skin appear red or very pink. The bumps are red, white or brown. The affected skin may also be very dry and appears scaly.

It usually affects the following areas:

• Thighs (mostly upper thighs and also the back of thighs)
• Legs
• Arms (forearm and upper arm, sometimes concentrating on the elbow. Occasionally, it spreads to the armpit)
• It can also be commonly found on the back of legs.
• Face (on the cheeks and sometimes on the chin)
• Buttocks
• Chest

Symptoms

These are some of the most common signs of keratosis pilaris:

• Small bumps that are usually painless on parts of the skin such as upper arms, thighs, cheeks, and buttocks.
• Dry skin that may appear scaly
• The skin may feel very rough on the affected parts
• Appearance and disappearance of these bumps with different climates. They often appear in climates with
• little humidity, for example, winter, then reduce or even completely disappear in summer, where the air is more humid.
• The skin may look like it has a lot of goose bumps, or resemble that of a plucked chicken
• The bumps may be white, red, pink, brown or black, depending on one’s skin color

Causes

Keratosis pilaris is caused by deposits of excess keratin on the hair follicle. It causes a formation of small hard bumps that make the skin feel rough.

Doctors have not found out what exactly triggers the production and deposit of the excess keratin. It is however thought to come from genetic skin conditions and diseases. It could also be symptomatic of other body conditions and skin diseases such as eczema and ichthyosis vulgaris.

Also, people who tend to be in constant contact with water, and those with dry skin are more likely to develop this condition. Other studies show that people with coiled hair follicles are more vulnerable.

Diagnosis

Usually, a doctor can tell keratosis pilaris by just looking at the affected skin. As it is usually genetic, family history is also an important lead.

Skin biopsy is performed under abnormal circumstances. Results for this skin condition usually include thickening of the epidermis which is the outer layer of the skin (epidermal hyperkeratosis), an increased population of granular cells of the epidermis (hypergranulosis) and some inflammation of the upper dermis, which is the layer of skin below the epidermis (mild superficial perivascular lymphocytic inflammation).

When to see a doctor

• If keratosis pilaris does not respond to home treatment and therapy
• If it comes along with other vital symptoms such as fever and vomiting. It could be a symptom of other disease conditions.
• If it becomes very painful. Normally, the skin affected by keratosis pilaris is not painful but may be a little itchy.
• If creams and lotions do not lessen the itchiness

Treatment

As keratosis pilaris is harmless, there is no prescribed treatment for it. It gradually disappears, usually with age. One can use creams, lotions and laser treatment to improve the appearance of the affected skin or reduce the discomfort. One is advised to use moisturizing skin care creams and practice self-improvement tips like drinking a lot of water to reduce instances of dry skin. If these do not work, the doctor will prescribe certain creams and lotions.

Topical exfoliants are creams to help with removal of dead cells. They reduce the appearance of bumps and improve how the skin looks. They are also important in moisturizing the skin. They usually contain alpha-hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and urea. These creams may be prescribed or found over-the-counter depending on their concentration. Additionally, the acid they contain may redden the skin or make it itchy. They are therefore not recommended for children.

Topical retinoids help reduce plugging of the skin follicles. Their source is usually rich in Vitamin A. They contain tazarotene and tretinoin. Some examples of topical retinoids are Renova, Avita, Retin-A, Tazorac, and Avage. They, however, tend to make the skin dry and irritate it. They are therefore not recommended for pregnant or lactating mothers. They should be delayed for use after pregnancy.

Laser treatment is sought where creams and lotions fail to work. Lasers reduce the redness, swelling, discoloration and improve the skin texture.

The goal of treatment is not to cure keratosis pilaris, but to reduce the appearance of the small bumps, and to smoothen the skin texture. Application of creams and lotion may work only after long periods of time.

Here are a few home remedies and ways to contain the condition:

• Use warm water to bathe and avoid excessively hot water as it quickly dries the skin.
• Limit the amount of time you spend in water
• Avoid scratching or picking your skin
• Use humidifiers in the house to add moisture to the air. Keratosis pilaris is less likely to progress in humid conditions.
• Constantly apply moisturizers on the skin to keep it from drying up
• Drink plenty of water and fluids that hydrate the body to avoid drying up and scaling of the skin
• Use only approved soaps and creams on your skin to avoid skin damaging products
• Use topical exfoliant and retinol lotions and creams to assist with removal of dead skin
• Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight as they cause friction on the affected skin
• Apply coconut oil to the affected skin, especially on the legs and back of legs. It has some anti-inflammatory properties.

Pictures of  Keratosis pilaris

Collection of Photos, Images, Pictures of Keratosis pilaris…

Who is most affected with Keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris may occur in people of all ages but mostly develops in a child, toddler, and adolescent. It usually clears by the age of 30.

It is also prevalent in people (mostly children) with skin conditions such as atopic eczema and ichthyosis vulgaris.

The skin condition may also extend into adulthood. It is slightly more prevalent in women than men.

When does Keratosis pilaris go away?

It clears in climates with high humidity, for example, in summer. It is known to become worse in winter when the air is generally dry.

In the long term, keratosis pilaris clears by the age of 30.

What is the best lotion for Keratosis pilaris?

Dermatologists recommend the use of lotions with a high content of lactic acid (such as AmLactin, Lac-Hydrin, and Cetaphil), alpha-hydroxy acid lotions, urea lotions (for example Urix 40, Carmol 20 and Carmol 10), salicylic acid lotions (Salex) and OTC moisturizing lotions such as Purpose and Lubriderm. One should also use skin cleansers, for example, Dove, Eucerin, and Curel.

Is Keratosis pilaris Contagious?

This skin condition is not contagious but has proven to be genetic. Family members are likely to develop it not from a transmission, but by inheritance.

Conclusion

Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that is very common and affects children and young adults. It is not life-threatening and does not require treatment. It clears on its own by the time one is 30 years old. The best way to manage this condition is the use of moisturizing creams and lotions, particularly those that contain acids such as lactic acid and urea.

It is important to note that treatment of keratosis pilaris is a continuous process, and will not show any visible results until after weeks of continued therapy. One should not expect immediate results, and should not stop treating the skin. The best treatment, however, is taking care of your skins in all ways possible. It will not only help heal keratosis pilaris but also prevent other skin conditions.

What is Spigelian Hernia?

A hernia is a condition whereby an organ pushes out of the tissue or muscle holding it in place through a weakness on the wall. Spigelian hernia (also called lateral ventral hernia) is a type of hernia that occurs in the spigelian fascia, which is a tissue that separates two abdominal muscles; the rectus abdominis (rectus muscles) and the semilunar muscle (lateral obliques). It is a rare type of hernia constituting 0.12% of all reported abdominal hernias, and 1-2% of all reported hernias. This is because the abdominal muscles are usually have enough strength and able to hold abdominal organs in place.

Location of Spigelian hernia

Spigelian hernia is different from all other hernias. While other hernias develop below the subcutaneous fat layers, it is found between muscles of the abdomen. It usually shows no outward physical signs, like swelling. For this reason, it is not very easily identified. It is usually diagnosed after a long period of time when other abdominal problems arise. It should be treated immediately after diagnosis. If left untreated, it can result in serious constipation, bowel obstruction and may cut off blood supply to some organs. This makes it a life-threatening condition.

Where is a Spigelian Hernia located?

Spigelian hernia develops between the middle and lower abdomen (on the lateral edge), through a layer of tissue called spigelian fascia which separates the two parts of the abdomen. The middle abdomen is medically referred to as rectus abdominis while the lower part is called semilunar line.

Diagrammatic representation of different types of hernia’s and their location

What does a Spigelian Hernia feel like?

As spigelian hernias occur between muscles, they do not usually form the bulge that can be seen and felt through the skin as other hernias. This makes it hard to realize its presence until later when it starts producing symptoms.

Sometimes, however, one is able to see and feel the bulge, especially when it is a large one. This is a high-risk stage that is accompanied by a lot of pain. The bulge is usually soft and unexplained, on the abdomen.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of spigelian hernia are:

• Continuous or recurring burning pain in the abdomen
• Increased pain when lifting heavy things, coughing or having a bowel movement
• Obstruction of the bowels
• Back pain
• Grayish or greenish appearance of the skin on the abdomen due to lack of blood flow to the organs
• Constipation
• Blood in the stool
• Pain after eating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Small soft unexplained swelling on the abdomen
• Flank pain, especially around the pelvis

Causes

The immediate cause of all hernias is a weakness or hole in the wall or tissue that holds the organ in place. Spigelian hernia is no different. It is caused by a weakness in the abdominal wall which leads to a protrusion of the abdominal organs into the abdominal muscles. The weakness in the wall is caused by various factors as explained below:

• Chronic coughing, vomiting, and sneezing – These cause continuous and repetitive contractions of most body muscles. This strain on the abdominal walls can weaken them, leading to spigelian hernia.
• Obesity – Too much fat in the body may be lodged on abdominal walls. Despite their strength, they may be unable to bear the weight, and eventually weaken or even collapse in the cases of extreme obesity.
• Strain full physical activities and exercise – lifting of very heavy objects may build up pressure in the abdominal area, leading to weakness of the abdominal wall
• Constipation – during bowel movements, constipated people may need to exert more pressure to pass bowels. This pressure damages the abdominal wall, especially when constipation is frequent.
• Post-surgery infection – After an operation on the abdomen, the abdominal wall sometimes get infected and consequently weakened.
• Heavy labor – women who give birth naturally usually exert a lot of force in the ‘pushing’ process. This pressure on the abdomen could result in a hernia.
• Genetic problems – Some people may inherit hernia, especially in families with a known recurrence.
• Congenital defect– Spigelian hernia may be a result of improper development of the abdominal wall before birth
• Injuries to the abdomen – Sometimes, when people get physically injured on the abdomen, the abdominal wall receives some trauma that gradually weaken it.
• Ascites – This is a condition whereby the liver stops functioning normally or properly, and there is a fluid build-up in the abdomen. These fluids build up pressure against the abdominal wall and eventually lead to the hernia.
• Multiple pregnancies– Multiparous women have been found to have a focal tenderness and or a mass along the linea semilunaris, which results to the spigelian hernia, strangulation of the intestines and bowel constriction.

Treatment

Once spigelian hernia is suspected by a doctor, the following tests may be performed to diagnose it:

• CT scan
• Ultrasound
• MRI
• Ultrasonography

These tests help show any abnormalities in the spigelian line, which can help detect presence of the hernia. They also show its position and size.

One can live with a hernia if it is not painful and does not pose a risk to the health or other body organs, and life generally. However, in the case of spigelian hernia, surgery is performed to repair the weakness or hole on the abdominal wall or remove it and strengthen the damaged part with surgical mesh.

There are two types of surgeries for spigelian hernia: laparoscopic surgery and open surgery.

Laparoscopic surgery involves making a small incision and using a small tube and camera to view and guide the doctor to the affected part. The doctor then repairs the damaged part using surgical mesh.

Open surgery involves making a larger incision on the abdomen. The doctor is able to directly view and treat the hernia as deemed necessary.

Laparoscopic surgery is preferable as it has fewer complications and takes a shorter time to heal.

Various surgical approaches used include endoscopic, total extra peritoneal repair, conventional, and trans abdominal preperitoneal repair.

Is a Spigelian Hernia dangerous?

Yes, spigelian hernia is very dangerous, especially when left untreated. It can lead to complication such as inability to pass bowels, strangulation of the intestines and lack of blood flow. In the long run, it will most probably lead to death. It is therefore advised to seek treatment as fast as possible.

Can a Spigelian Hernia heal itself?

While other mild hernias especially those that do not cause any pain can eventually heal by themselves, spigelian hernia does not. In fact, it will get worse and become more dangerous to the other organs. Therefore immediate treatment is required.

Conclusion

Spigelian hernia is a life-threatening hernia that can occur in all people. It usually occurs in people between 50-70 years, most commonly in women. It should be treated immediately when diagnosed as further delay could pose a danger to other organs in the abdomen, and the body at large.

The best way to avoid this condition is to take proper care of the body to avoid self-imposed hernias. You should exercise regularly and eat well to avoid obesity. At the same time, you should avoid straining the body unnecessarily, for instance, by doing strenuous exercise and lifting objects that are too heavy. In case of any extreme injuries on the abdomen, you should visit a doctor to have your abdomen examined for any damage on the abdominal wall, tissues, and organs.

You may have seen someone who is unable to stand straight because the spine is excessively curved either to the right or left and wondered why. Such a person may have been born that way, with a defect in the spine making him/her unable to enjoy a completely erect posture. If you have ever seen such a case, it’s possible you have seen a case of scoliosis. But when the person’s spine is curved towards the right, such condition is known as dextroscoliosis.

This post will shed more light on dextroscoliosis, its signs and symptoms, causes, as well as the treatment. So, if you are suffering from the condition or know of someone who is, this is the best time to get the right information that will help you. Make sure you read this post to the end and that you understand everything we are going to talk about in the post.

What is Dextroscoliosis?

Picture of Dextroscoliosis

Dextroscoliosis is a medical abnormality in which the vertebral column (spine) is curved towards the right. The curvature is such that the affected individual cannot stand straight without bending to the right. This condition can be a bit distressing in terms of the strain it puts on the muscles of the body or internal organs.

Dextroscoliosis, in most cases, is caused by a congenital abnormality (the individual is born with it), but can sometimes result from other medical conditions. The condition is not as dangerous as levoscoliosis (curvature of the spine to the left), in that, it does not directly put your heart in danger. Nevertheless, the condition puts some pressure on other internal organs such as the liver, kidney (one), the right lung and some parts of the colon.

The condition is commoner at the thoracic and lumbar levels of the vertebral column, hence it is usually referred to as thoracic dextroscoliosis or lumbar dextroscoliosis, depending on the level that is affected. It can be seen in both adults and children. However, the condition is more common in females than in males.

The mild dextroscoliosis is a lesser form of dextroscoliosis in which the spine is slightly curved to the right (just about 10 degrees) and it usually presents with lesser deformity and symptoms as well.

Symptoms of Dextroscoliosis

Symptoms may not be easily pronounced in people who are born with this condition. But X-ray, scan or other form of medical examination may reveal the form of dextroscoliosis and the extent of the abnormality. For the sake of clarity, here are a few symptoms the sufferer may present with:

• There is an abnormal curvature of the spine toward the right side of the body with a prominence of the corresponding scapula
• Difficulty bending down or twisting the body
• Elevation of the left hip above the right side
• The rib cages are asymmetrical (the ribs are at different heights)
• Clothes do not fit properly
• Uneven lengths of the legs
• The patient may lean toward the right side
• The head may be slightly off center
• The baby may lie curved on one side most of the times
• Babies may have a bulge on one side of the chest
• Occasional chest pain or shortness of breath (in severe cases)

Causes

Majority of the cases of dextroscoliosis have unknown cause. Here’s a list of the causes of dextroscoliosis:

• Idiopathic: In this case, the cause is unknown but the patient is born with it (congenital abnormality)
• Degenerative diseases of the spine: When there is a degenerative disease of the spine, the vertebral column could gradually become curved to the right
• Neuromuscular disease: Some diseases that affect the nerves and muscles can equally bring about this condition. Examples include muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy
• Spinal trauma: Any major trauma to the spine may lead to dextroscoliosis
• Length of the legs: An individual with unequal lengths of the legs may eventually develop dextroscoliosis as he bends consistently towards the shorter leg
• Bad posture: Assuming certain bad postures for a long period can also bring about the condition
• Carrying backpacks: If you consistently carry heavy backpacks, there is the tendency of developing dextroscoliosis no matter how mild.

Treatment

Not all cases of dextroscoliosis will require treatment, majority of the children with mild spinal curves will not. But the doctor will need to place them on a regular physical examination to monitor the progress of the curve. In that case, they may need to be on regular follow-ups in every 4 to 6 months during which periods X-rays and other forms of tests are conducted.

However, before any treatment is commenced, the following will help the doctor in making a decision:

• Severity of the curve: Curves that are larger tend to get worse with time. For instance, S-shaped curves otherwise known as “double curves” usually get worse as time goes by; the C-shaped curves may not get worse
• Maturity of the bone: If the patient’s bones are no longer growing, the risk of the condition getting worse is remote compared to someone that is still growing. The most effective way to handle the condition while the bones are still growing is to use braces
• Gender: Dextroscoliosis tends to get worse in females than in males. This is a fact that the doctor would have to look into before making a decision to treat the patient
• Position of the curve: Curves that are located in the center of the back tend to get worse with time compared to those located in the upper or lower portions.

Now that the doctor has made a decision to treat the problem, what are the various options available to the patient? Here are some of the ways to handle the problem and give the sufferer some reliefs or provide a permanent solution.

Braces

Most of the times, the doctor would recommend braces for a patient with mild to moderate scoliosis whose bones are still growing. The essence of the braces is to stop any further curvature but it does not reverse or cure the condition. They are supposed to be worn all the times (both day and night). Braces are more effective when worn for a higher number of hours. The braces can be taken off to enable the child take part in physical activity if the brace interferes with such. Braces are no longer needed once the bones have stopped growing.

Usually, there are two types of braces to choose from: Thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) and the Milwaukee brace.

• Thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO): This is designed to fit neatly around the curves of the body. It can be easily hidden by the patient’s clothing.
• Milwaukee brace: The brace is only needed when there is no available TLSO or when it is impossible to use the TLSO. The Milwaukee brace is a full-torso brace with a neck ring which provides support for the back of the head and the chin.

Casting

The doctor could decide to make use of casting instead of bracing, especially if it is an infant that is involved. Casting will assist the infant’s spine in normalizing during the period of growth. It simply involves the use of Plaster of Paris in making the cast which is attached to the child’s body externally and should remain there all the time. The cast needs to be changed from time to time because of the child’s growth.

Surgery (Spinal Fusion)

Severe cases of scoliosis that cannot be corrected with casting or braces would require surgery. This is because the condition can progress and get worse with time. The primary purpose of the surgery is to prevent the condition from becoming worse.

The surgery involves connecting two or more spine bones with new bone grafts. This can be done with the help of hooks, metal rods, wires or screws which help in holding parts of the spine and keep them straight as healing takes place in the bone.

The average time of the surgery is about 4 to 8 hours. Immediately the surgery is completed, the child would be transferred to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) where he/she would be given further treatment. They are mostly infused with intravenous fluids and given painkillers. The child is out of the ICU within 24 hours and is transferred to the children’s ward where he/she would be nursed and monitored for about one week to 10 days before he’s finally discharged home.

After the surgery, a child would be fit to resume school within 4 to 6 weeks. The child would only be fit to participate in sports after about 1 year of the surgery. The child may need to support the back with a brace for about 6 months only in few cases.

It is important for the patient to visit the hospital at least once in every 6 months so that they can increase the length of the rods. This is done on an out-patient basis. When the spine is fully grown, the rods can then be removed.

Risks

There are some risks associated with spinal fusion. So, the doctor will only weigh the risks against the benefits before going ahead with the procedure. Some of the associated risks include: Pseudarthrosis (improper fusion of the bone), rod displacement, nerve damage and infection.

Conclusion

Dextroscoliosis can pose a problem to internal organs, cause pain or reduce one’s self esteem. But with the tips we have listed in this post, you can get the help you want. Note that these suggestions are not to serve as alternatives to medical treatment; they are only there to provide relief. You still need to see the doctor who would determine what to do for you and at what point.

A dried and bloody nose is a condition in which a person becomes afflicted with dried blood in the nose mixed with snot. This condition happens for a number of reasons. Sometimes on waking up a person might find his/her nose filled with mucus. When forced out the mucus might be reddish or maroon colored and has dried blood in it. This can sometimes be painful, but in most cases it is not.

A dried and bloody nose can happen to both toddlers or adults. Usually, it is caused by a change in temperature. If, however, it is accompanied by a headache, cold or a sore throat, a consultation with a doctor is advisable. The other symptoms associated with dried blood in the nose are:

Picture of Dried Blood in Nose

Symptoms of Dried Blood in Nose

Blood in snot

The most obvious symptom of this condition is the coming out of dried blood from the nostrils, when it is blown or during sneezing. The inner lining of the nose is covered with mucus whose production increases when the nose gets irritated. The dried blood can either come out with the mucus or alone as clots. Depending on how the blood is coming out the condition causing it can be analyzed and treated.

Headache

Some people might be getting frequent headaches and pain in the back of the eye. This is very common in the case of a bloody nose. The headache can be mild to severe and usually goes away shortly after.

Any problem in the nose is somehow related to the other parts of the body and can be the underlying symptoms of an allergy or a lung disease.

Cold

The accumulation of mucus is also related to cold weather. So, if you are blowing out dried blood from your nose there is a very fair chance that you have a cold. This happens especially during winters.

Chest Pain

In some cases a person might experience chest pain and also dried blood in the nostrils. Even though there is a possibility that these two might not be related, if the condition continues for a long period it might be an indication of lung disease. Which of course needs to be treated immediately.

Difficulty in breathing

Due to the regular accumulation of dried blood in the nose, a person might have difficulty in breathing properly. Sometimes, the bloody nose is so painful that every time a labored breath is drawn pain and discomfort are the inevitable consequence. This usually happens shortly after sleeping.

Causes

Dried blood in nose is not a disease in itself, but it can be a symptom of an underlying disease. The various causes of this condition are:

Temperature and Dryness

If the room you are sleeping is particularly cold and dry, there is a huge possibility that you will wake up with a bloody and dry nose. Bloody noses are particularly widespread during winters. During such chilly periods the dry air causes the nasal lining to get irritated and makes the nose to bleed. The blood is however unable to come out of the nose and accumulates there overnight. So, when the person concerned wakes up in the morning and blows the nose, dried and bloody snot flies out.

Allergies

If a bloody nose happens shortly after moving to a new place or eating something different from the usual fare, you might well have an allergy. The allergens might irritate the nasal passage, and thereby, cause it to bleed. Other symptoms associated with allergies are sneezing and pain in the nose. This is known as allergic rhinitis. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis can also include a runny nose, nasal stuffiness and itchy red eyes.

Injury

Blood in the nose can also be due to injury in the nasal cavity. The injury might even happen on the outside of the nose, while the impact causes bleeding on the inside. This blood accumulates in the nose and dries. Later, it causes a stuffy nose accompanied by irritation and inflammation. Such internal injuries usually heal by itself.

Scrapping

When a person has a cold and blows the nose frequently, the inner lining of the nose can get damaged resulting in bleeding. Also, sometimes dryness in the nose causes the inner lining to break, which causes bleeding and a lot of pain. And when the nose is itching and painful the urge to scrap and touch it can be unbearable. Unfortunately, that exacerbates an already bad and bloody situation.

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty also known as a nose job is surgery done to reconstruct a person’s nose. Sometimes after the surgery is done the inner lining of the nose bleeds a little. This is fairly common and as the blood is in tiny quantities it accumulates inside the nose and dries rather than flowing out of it. It later comes out when the nose is blown.

Infections

Respiratory infections are the most common cause of dry and bloody noses. The troublesome common cold is one such infection that causes bleeding in the nose. The cause is familiar; the constant blowing of the nose causes the nasal passage to get irritated. This is totally natural, harmless and goes away as soon as the cold is gone.

Thinning of the blood

A person taking blood thinners might also be susceptible to this condition. This thinning of the blood makes it come out of the skin in small quantities, with the potential of accumulating in the nasal cavity.

Cystic Fibrosis

In Cystic Fibrosis the individual concerned usually coughs up thick and blood-filled mucus. In some cases, cystic fibrosis later develops into respiratory infections and blood starts coming out of the nose as well.

Tuberculosis and Lung Cancer

Any disease that affects the lungs can also cause blood to accumulate in the nasal cavity. Tuberculosis and Cancer are two main diseases that have been reported to cause blood in the nasal cavity.

Treatment for Dried blood in nose

Depending on the disease that is responsible for the dried blood in the nose, there are many different treatments for it. These include:

• Nasal Spray – Most of the bleeding in the nose happens due to the dryness of the nasal cavity. In order to keep the nasal passage wet saline nasal sprays can be used. These are over-the-counter sprays, but it is advisable to consult your doctor before using them. The sprays not only moisturize the nasal passage, but also keeps it clean and free of dust, dirt, and other allergens.
• Petroleum Jelly – Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly on the inner lining of your nose is one of the best ways to keep it moisturized. Petroleum jelly is totally safe and is currently the cheapest moisturizer. If you cannot find nasal spray in pharmacies near you, petroleum jelly is best alternative to it.
• Wipes – Damp wipes can be used to clean the nose. You can either buy wet wipes that also have antibacterial properties or take a normal tissue, spray some water on it and wipe the nose lining with them. That will prevent dryness and help avoid any bleeding. It can also lubricate your nose when you are wiping it so that the dried blood easily comes off.
• Humidifier – A humidifier is very useful for removing dryness in a room and can be very helpful in providing relief to the nasal passage. Most especially on excessively dry days.
• Medical Treatment – If the dried and bloody nose is due to either lung diseases or infections, proper medical treatment for the disease can help reduce their symptoms. Consult a doctor if the dried and bloody nose stubbornly stays with you for more than a week. That is essential to the health and overall well-being

Itchy bumps on the arms is a condition in which small bumps develop on the skin and cause itching and irritation. These bumps are generally seen on the forearm or below the elbow. The causes of these bumps are many and varied. The bumps are generally not an overly serious matter. It is however worth noting that they can lead to skin cancer.

Therefore, if they persist for more than a week or two a doctor should be consulted.The bumps may be of the same color as the skin or a different color that is mostly red or pink. They can also differ in size depending on what triggered them. The larger ones are usually red and seem to be filled with pus. Even though these can appear on any skin type, oily skin is more prone to developing itchy, red bumps. Itchy bumps that come and go are not at all harmful and are usually triggered by excess heat or sunlight.

Symptoms of Itchy bumps on the arms

Picture of Itchy Bumps on Arms

Inflammation

When the red and itchy bumps appear on the skin they are usually associated with inflammation which happens either because the area becomes more sensitive or the sufferer scratches at the itching too vigorously, thereby causing skin abrasion and inflammation. The skin might also get inflamed if any chemical substance with irritants is applied on it like lotions and makeup. In cases where bumps that are bigger in size than normal develop, the inflammation can be painful whenever the area is touched or scratched.

Itchiness

The bumps that form are always itchy. No matter how big, small or the color they will always fiercely itch. It is however recommended to not scratch the itchy area to avoid infections.

Redness

The itchy bumps if big in size are always red in color. The bumps initially may not be red in color, but itching and the ensuing scratching cause them to turn pinkish-red. The itchy bumps that come and go are the result of some allergic reaction or irritation in the skin. But the ones that stay for a longer period of time should immediately get checked by a doctor.

Pimples

Along with the itchy red bumps on your arms, pimples  can also develop on the skin. These pimples are fluid filled and usually bigger in size. They do not itch but cause pain and discomfort when touched. They are pinkish in color and turn red when scratched or popped.

Pain and dryness

The itchy bumps can sometimes occur in clusters and the whole area around it becomes rough and dry. In some cases, the skin tends to flake off and cause pain and redness.

Causes of Red Itchy Bumps on Arms

There can be a number of causes for itchy bumps on the arms. The most common are:

Allergies

Hives develop on the forearm due to an allergic reaction to some specific food or a dusty environment. Some people after gardening or being exposed to some plants can develop small and itchy bumps on their arms. These can be caused by the skin being allergic to chemicals secreted by plants. Similarly, after eating certain foods like nuts, vegetables or fruits a person might develop redness and itchy bumps on their arms. This is one of the most common causes of this condition.

Some medicines can also cause allergies. When this is discovered taking them should be immediately discontinued. Also, during pregnancy the body can release hormones that might cause red and itchy bumps.

Insect Bites

Insects like bed bugs, mosquitoes, mites and fleas are the most common insects that bite humans and cause itchy bumps on their arms. They can occur just as one bump or a cluster of bumps. These are usually red in color and quite painful. In most cases the bumps later develop into rashes and the skin surrounding it becomes hard and dry.

Eczema

Eczema is a skin disease in which the skin gets inflamed. It can appear on any part of the body, but is mostly seen below the elbow. The rash makes the skin itchy, dry and red.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition in which flaky and red skin bumps appear all over the body. The skin becomes so dry that it starts flaking. The worst thing about psoriasis is that it keeps spreading to other parts of the body too.

Skin Irritation

Skin irritation is like an allergy, except that it is caused by chemicals that come in contact with the skin. Things like cosmetic products, some soaps or even the UV rays of the sun can cause skin irritation. Ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause skin burn and result in red, itchy bumps on the skin. These bumps are painful and sometimes the skin around them swells up.

Acne or Pimples

Pimples are yet another type of skin bumps. The pimples are very rarely found on the arms. They are red, pus-filled bumps that cause intense pain when touched or pinched. In some cases the pus has to be drained out in order to get relief from the pain.

Boils

Boils are a type of bumps on the skin that have hair trapped in them. The hair needs to break the skin above it to come to the surface. Some small hairs are unable to break the skin and develop into pus-filled bumps. They are red and painful and only go away when the pus in them is drained. They can also be very itchy when dry.

Pictures of Itchy Bumps on Arms

Collection of Pictures, Images, Photos of Itchy Bumps on Arms

Treatment

The treatment for itchy bumps on the arms vary depending on the seriousness of the problem. Treatment options include:

• Finding the cause: The very first step before starting any treatment is to find the cause of it. In this case, if the cause is properly assessed the bumps can be easily treated with medication and cured in less than a week. Sometimes, a biopsy of the skin is taken to check whether the bumps are cancerous or not.
• Covering up the skin: This is not a treatment, but an easy precaution that should be taken to avoid itchy bumps. To prevent negative sun reaction to the skin covering it up when going out on a very hot day is important.
• Use of anti-inflammatory lotion: In most cases of itchy bumps the doctor merely prescribes an anti-inflammatory lotion that helps reduce the redness and inflammation of the skin.
• Moisturization: Since the skin in most cases becomes dry and starts flaking, proper moisturization is very important. Sunscreen lotions and aloe vera-based moisturizers are the most helpful since they are good for the skin and in addition to moisturizing they help in reducing the inflammation.
• Antifungal and anti-bacterial creams: In cases where bumps on the arms are caused by fungal or bacterial infections, the doctor prescribes these ointments and creams to kill the pathogens on the skin.
• Surgery: In very rare cases, where the bumps grow really big and penetrate deep into the skin, small surgeries are done to drain out the puss and close the wound.
• Medication: In cases of some insect bites and microbe-related infections, oral medicines are given to the patient in addition to a topical ointment.

Red Blotchy Skin is a condition in which small red patches appear all over the skin. These patches can either be painful or painless. Blotches can occur on any part of the body including  arms, legs, neck, chest, hand, nose, around ankles, back of the arms etc. Red blotchy skin can be itchy at times and might turn into a rash.

Redness of skin is caused by the blood flow to that area. Our body has capacity to heal itself. So, if any damage is caused to a particular area in the body due to any reasons, our body increases that blood flow in that area to speed up the healing process. Red blotchy skin can be a symptom of various diseases or can sometimes be totally harmless and go away within an hour. It can be followed by some bumps and rashes on the skin which can cause a lot of discomforts. Itching the area can be the worst thing since it may leads to the infection spreading to the other parts of the skin as well.

There are a lot of reasons for this condition to happen but in some cases, red patchy skin is a birthmark. So if the area of  skin is not showing any symptoms and is present in body for a long time, it might as well be a birth mark. Even though confirmation should be taken from the doctor.

Red Blotchy Skin Causes

Picture of Red Blotchy Skin

The different causes of red blotchy skin are:

Over-Exfoliation

Exfoliation of the skin means removal of dirt and dead skin. Exfoliation is usually done with a scrub in the whole body. Sometimes a person does not realize and applies a lot of extra pressure on the skin while exfoliating it. This causes minor abrasions in the skin leading to red patches all over. This usually happens on face and neck area since those are the softest and the most sensitive areas in the whole body.

Allergies

Some skin irritants might also lead the skin to turn red. In many cases after a bath, people find their skin developing red patches. These are due to irritation of the skin caused either by the chemicals in soap or body wash. Other allergic reactions to pollen, dander, dust etc. can also lead to the development of red blotchy skin in a person. Red patches might sometimes be itchy and cause irritation in the skin. Other allergens can be cosmetics, laundry products, and skin care products.

Weather

Too cold or too warm weather can also cause red patches in the skin of a person. Heat during summers or even hot water can lead to minor burns in the skin. This, in turn, leads to the redness in the places where skin has been burnt. Cold weather and dry winds are also responsible for red patches forming on the exposed area, especially neck and nose since these are the most exposed areas.

Hives

Hive is a type of allergy that causes red patches and small red bumps on the skin. This is a very common skin allergy and occurs suddenly. Although it only affects skin for a few hours or a few days before automatically subsiding.

Sun Exposure

The exposure to the sun causes the body to develop sunburns. Ultra-Violet rays of the sun are very harmful to our skin. Like any other burnt area, skin turns red. Sunburns can happen anywhere on the body including arms, legs, neck, chest, hands, nose, around ankles and the back of arms. Sometimes the sunburns can lead to sun poisoning which is a very harmful condition. Sun exposure not only causes the skin to turn red but also causes it to swell and get inflamed. It even leads to rash and bumps on the skin.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a very common disorder among women older than 30. The very first symptoms of rosacea are redness of the cheeks which comes and goes and later becomes permanent. The symptoms are usually seen on the cheek and include small blood vessels visible on the skin, red bumps, irritation, inflammation, rash and skin thickening. Rosacea is not a very common cause of redness of the skin but is possible.

Lupus

Lupus is a condition in which the body’s own immune system starts attacking its own cells in the body. The common symptom of lupus is the formation of a red butterfly-shaped rash on the area near the nose, neck, and face. This is like a rash that keeps coming and going with time. Lupus gets even worse if the skin is exposed to the sunlight. The other symptoms of lupus are fever, cold sores, hair loss, joint pains etc.

Polycythemia Vera

This is a blood disorder that takes place in men more than women in the age group above 40. Polycythemia Vera is a disease in which the bone marrow makes blood cells more than required. These can lead to formation of blotches on the skin. This disease can be deadly if not treated on time.

Scraping

Scraping means scratching of the skin to intentionally or unintentionally cause damage to the tissues. Redness is the immediate response of the body to scraping. It can happen on any part of the body including arms, legs, neck, chest, hands, nose, around ankles and the back of arms. In many cases, the redness can also be caused after shaving since the skin gets scrapped with the razer.

How to make the Red Blotchy Skin go away?

The red blotchy skin can happen due to a large number of reasons as mentioned above.

The ways to make the red blotchy skin go away are:

Consult a Doctor

First and foremost thing that needs to be done in treating any skin condition is finding the root cause behind it. So the doctor runs some blotch tests and inquiries about other symptoms that are associated with your conditions and comes to the conclusion about your disease.

Keep the skin hydrated

Keeping the skin hydrated is the most important part in treating any redness in the skin. Sometimes redness is caused due to sun exposure which makes the skin dry, so drinking plenty of water is very important to keep the skin hydrated. Water also is very helpful in flushing out toxins from the skin with the sweat.

Cold compress

The redness in most cases is accompanied by inflammation of the skin. Also, redness is caused by extra blood flow to the specific region of the skin. So, cold compress with ice is used in order to subside the inflammation. The ice is also responsible for reduction of the blood flow to the skin, reducing the redness.

Anti-inflammatory

Anti-inflammatory medicines are also prescribed by many doctors to treat inflammation that is associated with the red spots. Sometimes red blotchy skin is the result of inflammation. So, keeping in mind your condition, the drugs are provided.

Other medicines and ointments

In cases of infections and allergies, medicines like antihistamines are given to the patients. Antibacterial and antifungal ointments are also given that are to be applied to the skin in order to kill the microbe causing the rash and redness.

Moisturize

Keeping the skin moisturized is also very important in treating the red blotches of the skin.so, use a good moisturizer on the whole body to avoid dryness. It is even better if your moisturizer has SPF. The SPF keeps the skin protected from the harmful UV rays of the sun.

Pictures of Red Blotchy Skin

Collection of Pictures, Photos, Images of Red Blotchy Skin

Natural treatments

There are some home remedies that can be used to treat red blotchy skin, These are:

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera gel is a natural moisturizer and coolant. Applying aloe vera on the skin naturally, cools the affected area and also stops the skin from feeling itchy. Fresh aloe vera gel can be directly applied to the skin in order to get the best results. Aloe vera reduces redness, inflammation, and swelling in addition to keeping the skin moisturized. If you do not have fresh aloe vera available, then the aloe vera gel tubes are available at the pharmacies, which can also be used.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is another natural rehydrate. It moisturizes the skin and reduces dryness of the blotchy skin of arms, legs, neck, chest, hands, nose, around ankles and back of arms. There is a compound called avenanthramide present in the oatmeal which is responsible for reduction of inflammation and oxidation of the skin. Oatmeal bath is the best way to treat red blotches all over the body. Applying oatmeal with honey is an even better option since honey is another antioxidant and moisturizing agent

Baking Soda

In some cases of red blotchy skin, the patches have dead skin accumulated on them. This skin needs to be removed gently. So, in order to do that, baking soda is used. Baking soda is excellent natural exfoliator, it unclogs pores and cleans them to give even skin tone.

Cucumber

Cucumber is packed with qualities. It has antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B and vitamin A. All these vitamins are very important for healthy skin. In addition to these, cucumber is an excellent cooling agent. It helps reduce inflammation, dryness and the spots left after the blotches get healed.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E oil is one of the best remedies for healing any ailment of the skin. It is also one of the most sought after ingredient of cosmetic products. It has antioxidant property and moisturizing property that not only heals the skin but also keeps it wrinkle free for a long time. This is an amazing product to treat the dry kind of blotchy skin.

Peeling fingertips is a condition which occurs when the skin on the fingertips dries and flakes off. This can happen due to a variety of reasons and is a very common problem. The skin on the fingertips is generally soft and gentle compared to the other parts of the hand. If the fingertips are not treated with care the skin can start peeling off, causing discomfort, embarrassment and pain.

Symptoms of Peeling Fingertips

Symptoms associated with peeling fingertips include:

• Dryness of the skin – The skin on the fingertips gets very dry causing cracks on the skin which results in the skin peeling off. Dryness is usually due to acute loss of moisture.
• Pain and Inflammation – Pain and Inflammation happen when the dried, flaky skin peels off and the skin underneath which is not fully mature comes in contact with deleterious external factors. Also, dry skin cause cracks. When these are exposed to any acidic substance inflammation and pain are inevitably felt.
• Bleeding – The area from which the skin has been peeled might sometimes bleed. The cracks formed due to dry skin can also run deep, and turn into wounds. Bleeding is followed by pain and inflammation in the fingertips. There might also be a burning sensation when the area gets rubbed against something.
• Itching – When the outer skin starts to dry up it causes itching. This happens when the area around the fingertips becomes tight and lose moisture which causes the skin to become itchy.
• Redness – The itching can also lead to redness of the skin. The area around the skin cracks turns red since there is a lot of blood flow to the fingertips in order to speed up the healing process. The redness can also be due to the formation of pus-filled blisters on the whole fingers and palm. These blisters are very painful and need a lot of care.
• Rashes – In some cases rashes spread over the entire fingers. These rashes might cause raised skin, swelling, and redness. They are extremely itchy and make the skin dry. Flaking and peeling of skin might sometimes spread to the whole hand.

Picture of Peeling Fingertips

What Causes skin on the fingertips to peel off?

There are a lot of reasons that might lead to the peeling of skin from the fingertips. They include:

Allergies

There are a huge number of allergens that can cause bad skin reactions like peeling fingertips. Nickel is one such allergen that negatively reacts when the hands come in contact with it. Other implicated allergens include rubber, especially latex. Which can cause allergic reactions in people who wear rubber shoes or gloves.

Fungal and yeast infections

Fungus and yeast cause small, red, itchy bumps on the skin and make the whole area dry. This leads to the skin breaking and flaking out. These bumps are very itchy and can spread to any part of the body. The fungus is still present in the dry skin that peels off the fingertips and might spread the infection to another person when they come in contact with it.

Psoriasis

Skin diseases like Psoriasis can lead to the skin becoming dry and flaky. The dry skin is also filled with small, itchy bumps. These bumps surround the area in which the infection is present. They start in between the folds of the skin and might spread to all parts of the body. The affected area might experience unpleasant burning sensations when it comes in contact with external substances like soap.

Eczema

Eczema is another skin condition that is responsible for the peeling of the fingertips. Also known as atopic dermatitis, it is characterized by dry and itchy skin that mostly has a burning sensation to it. An infected person might also develop pus-filled blisters that need to be drained in order to heal.

Dry Skin

Some factors like exposure to the sun, increase in temperature, lack of moisture or the use of chemicals leads to the skin becoming dry. The use of harsh soap and detergents can also lead to the fingertips becoming dry and peeling off.

Dermatitis

Dermatitis is a skin disease that might be the possible cause of peeling fingertips. For the sufferer, the skin becomes dry and thick. The outer layer develops small bumps that later fall off.

Sucking on the fingers

Babies and many adults have a habit of sucking their fingers. The skin on the fingertips become dry and flake off after the person stops sucking on it. In adults this can cause a lot of discomfort and embarrassment.

Water

After showering or swimming a person develops shrinkage of the skin. This happens to skin that has been exposed to water for a long period of time, and most especially affects the fingertips. If this happens regularly, the fingertips eventually become dry and harsh. Later on they start peeling, causing redness and burning sensations.

Winters

Winters are the harshest season of all and particularly harsh on the skin. The humidity in the air is very low and this leads to dry skin. After showering in winters the fingertips shrink. The low levels of humidity soon cause them to dry out and peel off.

Vitamin B deficiency

Vitamin deficiency is one of the biggest reasons for the peeling of fingertips. Vitamins are the micronutrients that play a big role in all the processes of our body. Vitamin B deficiency is the reason for skin diseases like eczema. Vitamin deficiency also leads to dead and dry skin that easily peel off.

Diabetes

Diabetic people are the ones that usually suffer from issues like peeling of the skin. Diabetes leads to a reduction in perspiration, causing the skin to get dry and cracked. As the fingertips have softer skin than the rest of the body it cracks rather easily and peels off.

Bacterial and viral infections

Some bacterial and viral infections also have adverse effects on the skin. Sexually transmitted diseases like AIDS can also lead to peeling fingertips. HIV causes severe deficiency in the immune system of any affected individual, and trigger a host of other diseases.

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that usually affects the skin and joints. Lupus rarely affects the fingertips. It is however responsible for causing rashes and dryness to the skin. This dryness can lead to peeling of the fingertips.

Stress

Stress is another factor in causing peeling fingertips. If you are unable to find an actual cause for the peeling of your fingertips, you might want to consider your stress levels. Stress causes lots of adverse effects on the skin and this might be one of them.

How to stop fingertips from peeling off

There are a lot of ways to stop peeling of the skin. These can be either medical treatments or home remedies. The peeling skin is usually not that serious and can be easily treated within three to seven days. Ways of stopping peeling fingertips include:

• Lotions and ointments – For the peeling that happens due to dryness of the skin, a moisturizing lotion is prescribed by the doctor. The hands need to be kept moisturized in order to reduce dryness and cracking of the skin. In some cases, the lotions have anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful in providing relief from burning sensations. In cases where the skin has been damaged and is bleeding, antibiotic ointments are given in order to stop any infections.
• Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs – In the cases where the damage has been caused by bacterial and viral infections, medicines in the form of oral supplements are given. They are mostly antibiotic and anti-inflammatory tablets that help kill the microbes and reduce inflammation of the fingertips.
• Antihistamines – Antihistamines are drugs that are responsible for stopping the production of histamines in the case of an allergic reaction. They are also known as anti-allergens.
• Warm Water soaks – Soaking the fingertips in warm water for some time is the best way to treat peeling skin from the fingertips. The warm water increases blood circulation in the area, thereby making the skin supple. In addition to this, the dry skin falls off due to the soothing action of the warm water, without any itching or burning sensation being experienced. After soaking your hands in the warm water for about 10 minutes, pat the hands dry. Do not rub them harshly against the towel as this causes loss of oils that are essential to keeping skin moisturized.
• Cucumber – Cucumber when applied on peeling fingertips help relieve inflammation due to its cooling properties. It also heals and moisturizes the skin.
• Aloe vera – Applying fresh aloe vera gel on the fingertips regularly cools and soothes them. This will reduce dryness, pain, and inflammation of the skin. Aloe vera is also a great ingredient for retaining the moisture of the skin.
• Drinking lots of water – Drinking plenty of water is very helpful for bringing back moisture to the skin. What you eat and drink is more important in healing your peeling fingertips than what you apply on it. So, drink lots of water and eat a balanced diet.
• Avoid drinking – Beverages like alcohol, coffee and tea should be completely avoided as these cause dryness of the skin. And as you know dryness is the main cause of peeling fingertips.
• Milk – Milk is found in everyone’s kitchen and is useful for a wide range of activities. It is also one of the best moisturizing agents available. Dipping the hands in cold milk for some time not only moisturizes the fingertips but also reduce inflammation. You can also drink milk with some nuts to keep the body warm and hydrated.

Pictures of Peeling Fingertips

Collection of Pictures, Images, Photos of Peeling Fingertips