Retaining teeth and lip color are issues that many people face. There are a number of factors that can affect the color of the lips and teeth. Age, gender, race, health conditions as well as environmental factors and diet can also contribute. Before beginning any treatments, you should consult with your doctor and exercise caution until you are certain of any side effects.

There are many reasons to try to retain the natural color of teeth and lips such as cosmetic reasons as well as overall oral health. Good dental hygiene has a positive impact on the body while poor dental hygiene can lead to heart disease and other health complications.

Symptoms

Staining or discoloration of the lips or teeth. The discoloration may be just the lips or teeth or may include both. It may be spotty, an all over color change such as excessive or loss of color or colored deposits on the gum, lips or teeth. Inflammation in the mouth, foul breath, tooth decay or sticky deposits may also be noticed.

Causes

It is important to know the source of the problem before beginning any treatment regimen for it. One of the most common causes for discoloration of the lips and teeth is smoking, with coffee and tea a close second.

Chewing tobacco, chemotherapy, improper oral hygiene, excessive consumption of wine or dark colas, allergies to products such as lipstick or other lip products, overexposure to sunlight and high amounts of fluoride can all contribute to discoloration of the lips and teeth. Certain types of infection are also known to manifest with symptoms of color loss or excessive color. Some medications may also cause discoloration.

Risk Factors

Risks of uneven or spotty coloration of the lips and teeth include types of skin cancer caused by sun and tobacco exposure. When allergic reactions are the cause of the problem it is important to discontinue use of the products causing the reaction. Even minor allergic reactions can lead to a more serious condition known as anaphylaxis, which is a life threatening problem.

There are also some medical conditions that can cause the natural color to change, and should be ruled out through examination and testing. In some cases, the underlying cause may lead to decay of the enamel and tissue in the mouth.

Prevention and Tips

The best prevention is to avoid exposure to the cause of the problem. In some cases, such as medicine and treatments it may not be possible, but for discoloration problems caused by dietary and lifestyle factors there are easy ways to reduce or prevent it. The best way to prevent lip and teeth discoloration caused by smoking is to quit smoking.

For tea and coffee drinkers, brushing after drinking and using whitening toothpaste and products can help reduce and prevent further staining. Lowering the consumption of staining beverages will also greatly reduce incidents of coloration issues. When medications or other medical treatments are the source of the problem, it may be worth discussing it with your doctor to see if there are alternative treatments available, or if they approve starting a treatment at home to reduce the symptoms.

Tests and Diagnosis

Your doctor may perform an exam of the mouth to check your symptoms and ask simple questions about your diet, whether you smoke and how much coffee or tea you consume. Other tests may include blood work or x-ray exams to check for other causes if no immediate one can be found. He or she may also refer you to a dentist depending upon their conclusions.

Treatment Options

Home Remedies for Retaining and Recovering Lip Color

1. Drink plenty of water, this helps hydrate the body and can flush out unwanted toxins. It is recommended to consume 8-10 glasses of water each day but care should be taken not to over-hydrate.
2. Reducing the source of the problem. If caused by consumption of tobacco or beverages, reducing your intake will help reduce the symptoms.
3. Lime or lemon applied directly to the lips can help lighten them and even out discoloration. Cucumber juice has also been shown to have a light bleaching effect upon the lips. Care should be taken to not further injure or agitate the lips through over-application of lightening products.
4. Moisturizers for the lips. This may include balms available at most retailers, or a home made balm such as clarified butter or simple yogurt. Avoiding heavily pigmented lip products may also reduce coloration issues as some have been known to darken the lips with long term usage.
5. A homemade scrub for the lips may help remove dead or damaged cells and lighten the tissue. The ingredients for the scrubs vary but often include a rich oil such as almond, and several lightening agents such as lemon and a coarse scrub agent, often sugar. Massaging these gently onto the lips can help improve the quality and condition of the lips.
6. Gentle massage. A very gentle massage of the lips can increase circulation and improve darkening skin. Combining this massage with a moisturizer or scrub can greatly improve results.

These home remedies are very cost effective, and in cases where reducing the amount of tobacco smoked can even save money as the products would be purchased less frequently.

Often for home remedies, many of the ingredients are already available in the home, further reducing the cost. Side effects are likely to be minimal depending on the source of the problem, but as with any medical problem, some side effects such as swelling, hives and blisters can be indicative of a serious reaction and should be discussed with your doctor.

Professional and Medical Treatments for Lip Color

1. Cosmetic lip tinting. The lips can be tattooed with color to give them the appearance of a natural lip color. This is permanent and can be painful as well as costly depending where one goes for it. It does not remove the cause of the loss of natural color, only treats the superficial symptoms.
2. Skin peels. Most peels can be done in a spa and some doctor offices have started to offer them. When considering skin peels make certain that the location is licensed and experienced. These peels work by applying a chemical compound to the lips to break down and remove the top layers, exposing the healthier skin underneath.
3. Depending on the source of the lip discoloration this may be a temporary solution, and one treatment may not be enough. The cost can vary depending on the severity of the lip condition and the location of the spa or doctor office. Common side effects to skin peels include irritation, swelling and can lead to further discoloration in some circumstances.

Home Remedies for Retaining and Recovering Tooth Color

1. Drink plenty of water to help hydrate and flush out toxins. This can also help rinse out the mouth and provides overall health benefits.
2. Rinsing the mouth after meals can also help prevent food and beverages from building up on the teeth. While brushing the teeth after each meal is ideal, it is not always possible. A variety of products are available to help keep the teeth clean including pocket size tooth wipes and mouthwash, but if those are unavailable, simply rinsing the mouth with water can help.
3. Baking soda toothpaste, or plain baking soda mixed into a paste can be used to loosen some of the discoloration and whiten the teeth.
4. Chewing sugarless gum has been shown to help reduce symptoms of discoloration.
5. Avoiding foods and beverages that are known to stain the teeth, or if they cannot be avoided, practice the good habit of brushing or rinsing with mouthwash after consuming them to prevent buildup.
6. Certain foods can be helpful in preventing buildup or assist in whitening them. These foods include citrus fruits and strawberries, but care should be taken not to overdo it because citrus fruits can irritate the gum or lead to decay or wear on the enamel if used in excess.

These home remedies are very cost effective, often requiring minimal purchases, and in cases where reducing the amount of tobacco smoked can even save money as the products would be purchased less frequently. Side effects to these home remedies are likely to be minimal but if side effects are noticed or become bothersome, consult with your doctor. Some possible side effects may include mild irritation of the gums from products or an increase in sensitivity.

Professional and Medical Treatments

For discolored teeth, professional dental whitening can remove staining and help maintain a bright smile. Professional level cleaning is proven to be the most effective but is also the most expensive option. The results last longer but does need to be done frequently to maintain the results. Your dentist may also recommend supplementing their treatment with an at home kits, increasing the overall cost. At home kits are available but results from them may vary. Whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes are also available and are fairly low cost.

Surgical Treatments

Surgical treatment to help retain tooth color beyond professional whitening does exist but can be very expensive and may not be right for everyone. A cosmetic dentist may suggest veneers, which are placed over the tooth to either protect a damaged surface or to improve the appearance of the teeth.

Because veneers are often used on multiple teeth at a time the cost can be prohibitive for some people. It can be difficult to match the color of the surrounding teeth so many dentists will recommend that multiple teeth are done at once so better match. This can be a permanent solution but care must be taken to maintain them as some types of veneers can fall off or crack in some cases.

Additional Surgical Options

Other surgical options include capping or crowning a tooth with a more permanent porcelain or ceramic tooth. In some cases removal of the tooth is necessary or recommended. The gap is then filled with an artificial tooth. This may also require manipulation of the surrounding teeth to either bridge across them or to make room in the mouth for the implant.

Dental implants can be easier to match to the surrounding teeth and often have a more natural look. They can be more sturdy than veneers but they can still break, same as natural teeth. This may be a more cost effective option than veneers but it is not a substitute for good oral hygiene. Many cosmetic dentists offer free or low cost consultations to help decide if that is the best procedure for your situation.

Before beginning any treatment, whether at home or professional, please consult your doctor and use caution and common sense with remedies. This is especially important if you are on medication or under the treatment of a doctor for other conditions. Do not hesitate to discontinue use and report any problems to your doctor.

Corns are hardened areas of skin that are the result of constant rubbing and pressure placed on specific areas of the body, most commonly the feet. These areas can become painful and bothersome for some people.

Symptoms

Corns and calluses are skin that becomes thick and hardened. These areas of skin may also appear flaky and dry at times. These hardened, thick skin areas are most often found on a person’s hands, feet and other areas of the body that may suffer from being consistently rubbed or pressed.

Causes

Typically corns and calluses are caused when a person subjects certain areas of their skin to pressure or friction from consistent use. Corns are usually skin that thickens on the top or side of a toe. A common cause for this happening is shoes that do not fit the person’s foot properly. Calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop on the hands or the soles of a person’s feet. This typically occurs from performing physical labor tasks.

The thickening of the skin occurs as a protective reaction to help prevent the development of blisters that can be painful and troublesome. People who have bunions on their feet most times will develop a callus over the bunion due to the bunion sticking out and rubbing against the shoe.

Risk Factors

Whenever a person consistently subjects parts of their body to repetitive rubbing or pressure, the possibility of developing corns or calluses is present. There are certain things that do put people at a higher risk factor for developing a corn or calluses. This includes:

• Age – As a person ages, their feet tend to become wider and flatter. The soles of their feet also tend to lose fat on the padding of their soles. This the feet to fit improperly in the shoe and allows for rubbing to occur. These problems also lead to improper pressure being put on areas of the feet that will cause skin to harden and thicken up.
• Cosmetic Foot Surgery – When a person has cosmetic surgery performed on their feet for situations such as to be able to fit into dress shoes easier, or to reduce the size of a person’s foot, this can lead to foot problems. Since the foot is designed to support a person on various pressure areas of the foot, reducing the size of a foot can throw the body’s sense of balance points off. This will lead to the foot having added pressure points in areas that it is not use to leading to the development of calluses and corns.
• Gender – Studies that have been conducted show that women are at a higher risk of developing corns on their feet. This is normally due to the types of shoes women tend to wear. This is also a result of women wearing a variety of different types of shoes for dress, exercise and causal wear without allowing their feet to adjust to just one or two different pairs of shoes.
• Occupational Risk Factors – The type of job and the environment in which a person works has a lot to do with their risk of developing corns. A person that is on their feet a lot or who perform a great deal of physical labor are at a greater risk of developing corns and calluses than someone who sit’s at a desk for the majority of their work shift. One example of this is a farmer who spends their time tending to their crops. Almost one hundred percent of their job requires physical labor. They develop corns and calluses to help prevent painful blisters from occurring.
• Pregnancy – Pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing corns and calluses because of the additional pressure placed on their feet that is not normal. The feet have specific points that it is used to receiving the majority of the pressure through regular wear and this is thrown off during a pregnancy.
• Sports and Activities – Since the majority of sports and extracurricular activities, such as dancing, require a person to spend a great deal of time on their feet while being active. These activities increase the likelihood of your feet and other parts of the body to experience extensive pressure and rubbing, causing corns and calluses to develop.
• Weigh Gain and Obesity – People who have gained weight or who suffer from obesity are at an increased risk of developing corns and calluses because of the extra pressure that they are putting their feet under to support the extra weight.

Prevention Tips

Corns can be very painful. There are cures to help remove corns that have developed. However, there is no guarantee that corns will not return or develop in another area. The best thing to do is prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips and techniques to help reduce the chances of developing corns.

Wear socks that are clean and dry. Providing continued moisture to your skin can erode the skin’s natural toughness. This is when corns will develop. Socks lock in moisture to the foot without allowing them to breathe. Wear socks continuously also contributes to foot odor and conditions such as athlete’s feet.

Shoes should not be worn indoors. Unless you are wearing a special corrective foot wear for a orthopedic problem, you should try to go bare foot around your home as much as possible. This gives your feet a break from the constant pressure and rubbing that occurs when wearing shoes.

Shoes With a Natural Curve

Shoes that come to a point, are thin or straight in design or that have a flat foot appearance, are more likely to cause rubbing and unnatural pressure points to your feet when wearing them. This can lead to the development of corns.
Do not wear shoes that are tight in the toes. Shoes that have a tight fit in toe area will definitely rub against the inside of the toe the entire time they are worn. This will result in a corn developing on the toes. Opt for wider toe shoes that allow for comfort and are natural fitting.

Check inside seams of shoes. If shoes have inside seams, make sure that they will not rub against the toe while wearing. Shoes that do not have protruding seams are less likely to contribute to developing corns. The more padding the better. When purchasing shoes, look for styles that have extra padding to help create a buffer for your feet and toes. When your foot settles into this buffer, it will maintain its natural position and result in less rubbing and pressure. You will also want to pay special attention to the ball of the foot and the back of the heel area. This is a common place for corns to develop.

Podiatrist Recommendations

Talk to a podiatrist about inserts. If you are unable to find shoes that fit your feet properly, talk to a podiatrist about getting inserts for your shoes. There are special pads, shoe inserts and wedges that can be specially made to your foot’s natural design to help eliminate the chances of developing corns as well as other painful foot conditions.

Surgery may be necessary. If you are unable to deal with the pain of an existing corn or you have a severe deformity of the foot, you may need to speak with a podiatrist about surgical treatments that are available that can help you deal with painful corns. This should always be a last resort when dealing with corns.

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

When diagnosing a corn, doctors and medical professionals will perform a visual inspection of the area and provide you with treatment options. They may inform you of some medicines or supplies available to treat corns. Doctors may even discuss surgical options that you have to remove the corn.

Treatment Options

There are many treatment options available to help patients deal with corns. There are medicines and over the counter medical supplies, surgical options that can be performed by a surgeon and countless natural remedies and cures available to try. Here are some of the options that a person has to help deal with painful corns.

Medicines and Over The Counter Medical Supplies

Special pads that are designed to place over the corn can be purchased over the counter. These pads can help to prevent future rubbing and pressure to the corn. Some varieties of pads available are medicated, meaning that they have an acid medication designed into the pad itself to help dissolve the hard tissue of the corn. This does help, but the medicine itself can harm good skin as well as the corn if it is not positioned correctly on the corn.

Shoe padding and shoe inserts are available. These products are meant to act as a bunting for your foot, allowing it to cradle around your foot and mold it into place to prevent rubbing and pressure points.

Over the counter acid medications are available. This usually comes in a liquid or gel form and is meant to be applied to the corn to soften the toughened skin. This should not be used by people who have problems that do not allow them good feeling in their feet areas. This is also not a recommended option for a person with pre-existing health problems like diabetes.

There are specially designed tools available to help shave away the tough skin of a corn. These tools are not recommended for people who have a decreased ability to fight off infections or who do not heal well, such as diabetics.

Pumice Stones

Pumice stones are a great over the counter option when trying to eliminate a corn. Soak your feet for approximately 20 minutes. Rub the pumice stone over the corn until you have removed as much dead and dried skin as possible. Continue this method for as many days as needed without making the area around the corn raw. Diabetics should not use pumice stones because of the chances of breaking the skin and causing infection.

Surgical Options

Surgeons can cut off the corn or callused area to help eliminate the pain. If the corn is caused by a toe that is not straight, surgeons can straighten the crooked bone to help reduce the likelihood that it will return. If the corn is the result of a toe that is too long or too short and causes rubbing, surgeons can help to shorten the bone or lengthen the toe using cosmetic surgery on the feet.

Doctors can burn the corn off using a medical acid treatment, similar to the treatment used for the removal of warts.

Natural Cures and Remedies

Fill a basin or tub that can be used to soak your feet in, with as hot of water as you can stand without getting scalded. Pour in about half a cup of Epsom salt into the water filled basin or tub. Soak your feet for 20 to 30 minutes twice a day. Continue this treatment for approximately one week. During the time of treatment, avoid wearing socks and shoes as much as possible.

Dip a cotton swab into castor oil and apply to the corn. Using medical adhesive tape, tape the cotton swab to the corn and allow it set over night. Continue this process for one week and you should begin to notice a big difference in your corn.

Some patients claim that if you tie a slice of lemon over the corn and leave it there over night you will get results.
Grind three or four licorice sticks and mix with half a teaspoon of sesame oil or mustard oil until a paste like substance forms. Apply this paste to the corn and leave on overnight. This will gradually soften the skin and reduce the size of the corn.

Grind chalk into a powder and mix with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the hardened corn and leave on overnight. This will soften the corn and shrink the size of it.

Dry, Peeling Skin: Causes, Prevention Tips and Cures

Peeling skin is a fairly common medical affliction that affects millions of people every year, and some are faced with the issue on a long-term basis. Skin may peel or dry skin can occur for a number of reasons and vary greatly in the level of severity. Besides being an annoying and often embarrassing problem, peeling skin can sometimes indicate that serious damage has occurred to the top layers of skin. In more rare cases, it can also indicate serious underlying medical conditions.

The following text is presented for educational and informational purposes only, and is no substitute for a diagnosis by a medical professional. If you are concerned about your skin or are experiencing troubling symptoms, see your doctor.

Here, explore some of the most common causes for peeling skin, and find out ways to both prevent and treat this condition. If the manifestation of skin problems turns out to be just one symptom of a more serious underlying condition, treatment for the related problem will likely help clear up any peeling.

Common Causes of Dry and Peeling Skin

Skin may begin to peel in relation to extreme dryness. In many instances of extreme skin dryness with peeling, sun exposure can be determined to be the main culprit. Sun exposure can cause skin irritation or damage even when sunblock is used.

This lapse in protection can occur when the exposure time is excessive, if the SPF value of the sunblock is less than 30, if the sunblock is not reapplied regularly or in rare cases where a person cannot tolerate any direct sunlight at all.

Sunburn & Heat Exposure

Sunburn is a major cause of sun-related peeling skin. After the initial injury to the top layer of skin cells from intense direct sunlight, the skin cells dry up, die and will eventually peel or slough off. Raw, painful skin may be revealed under the peeling skin if the damage extended beyond the very first layer, also called the epidermis. The “shedding” of old, damaged skin cells from the epidermis is a natural process when the skin is damaged, and may actually be a natural defense mechanism. To protect the body from damaged cells and allow new cells to generate, the old skin must die and fall away.

Heat exposure without sun is another common cause of peeling skin, increased dryness and other skin irritations. Sun and heat exposure can make skin appear red, itchy and feel hot long after the exposure occurs. Skin may blister in response to a severe sunburn or heat burn, and these types of burns should be evaluated by a doctor. After a period of blistering, usually two to five days, the deadened skin will peel away or “shed”.

Chronic Conditions & Chemicals

Certain chronic skin conditions, such as eczemas or types of dermatitis, can also result in peeling skin. Even babies can display scaly, flaking or peeling skin; this affliction is commonly referred to as “cradle cap”, and it is a type of childhood eczema. The condition has a medical name of seborrhoeic dermatitis, which is just a fancy way to describe yellowed, scaly skin that flakes off of an infant’s head. See possible treatments below.

Chemical exposure can also cause dry skin, and this is most evident on the hands of those who work with them on a regular basis. Even frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizers, which are deemed necessary by most to prevent the spread of germs, are incredibly damaging to skin. This is especially true in people with sensitive skin. Seeking out soap and other products that won’t dry out the hands is a smart solution for those who must wash up more than five to ten times a day on a regular basis.

Fungi

Certain fungi, such as athlete’s foot, ringworm and jock itch, can also cause skin to slough or peel off. Staph infection and eczema also commonly result in the patient experiencing reddened, itchy, peeling or sloughing skin. These conditions should be treated by a doctor with an anti-fungal or antibiotic regimen to clear up the problem. They are unlikely to go away on their own and can turn serious if left untreated.

In many cases where skin irritation occurs without obvious cause, such as fungi, sunburn or other underlying medical conditions, a bit of peeling skin or dry patches may indicate nothing more than a need for a few lifestyle changes. Poor diet, inadequate water consumption, smoking, vitamin deficiencies, excessive alcohol intake, and, ironically, too much exposure to water can all lead to dry skin and other skin problems.

Serious Conditions

Sometimes, though, peeling skin and extreme dryness may be indicative of a much more serious medical condition. Some types of lymphoma and skin cancer will present with a list of symptoms that includes peeling skin, though only a doctor or other trained medical professional can make that determination.

In some rare diseases, such as with Kawasaki disease and peeling skin syndrome, dry skin and peeling can be a typical symptom. These diseases need to be treated and closely monitored by a medical professional.

Solutions For and Prevention of Dry and Peeling Skin

If a serious underlying medical cause can be ruled out, and peeling skin is just a bothersome, nuisance problem, it is likely a condition that can be treated at home. There are many simple ways to help heal damaged skin and actually begin to replenish moisture in skin at home.

Dry skin may be a result of simple dehydration. Getting started on an active regimen of six eight-ounce glasses of water daily for at least two weeks may markedly improve the feel and appearance of the skin. This is an easy and inexpensive way to try and solve problems with dry skin without a trip to the dermatologist.

Maintaining proper hydration is keenly important to the function of all organs of the body, and the skin is the largest organ of all. Furthermore, the skin is the only organ worn on the outside of the body, exposed to all sorts of external toxins and irritants on a regular basis. Air conditioning or incredibly hot weather outdoors in the summer months can cause dry skin, as can turning on the heater in the winter.

Using Moisturizers

Using a good moisturizer will dramatically improve conditions if the skin is already dry and damaged, and help prevent the problem from recurring. For those with sensitive skin, checking the labels of new body products for known irritants in the ingredients list can help them avoid making the problem worse. There are creams and lotions which have collagen and silicone as main ingredients, and these may help improve the condition of dry, chapped, peeling skin on the hands especially.

The Effects of Water

Cold water can help tighten pores and promote healing of skin cells, so turning the water to ‘cool’ toward the end of a shower may help with peeling and dried out skin. blotting skin after showering or swimming, as opposed to rubbing vigorously can help protect skin. Even a bit of olive oil rubbed into the skin once a week can help replenish skin tone, feel and texture, and may reduce itching, peeling and dryness.

Avoid excessively hot water, as well. While an occasional dip in a heated pool or hot tub is fine, taking scalding hot showers every day is not a good idea. Especially in areas with very dry weather, exposure to water of any kind on a daily basis may promote dry skin and peeling. Showering only every other day during a flare-up of dry or itchy skin and limiting the use of body products that may worsen the problem can help the skin’s moisture levels from being stripped each day.

Washing Daily & Oils

Skin produces natural oils, and these oils serve as a protectant as well as a conditioner. For those with overly greasy complexions, these oils may seem like the enemy. For someone with impossibly dry skin, however, the word “oil” is one of the nicest words in the English language. While many people may shudder at the thought of not washing up every single day, our skin wants a break now and then. Not showering doesn’t mean not washing parts that warrant daily washing, and it doesn’t mean not putting on fresh clothes. Especially with the advances of deodorants and perfumes, most people simply do not truly need a daily shower.

Contact a Dermatologist

If the dry skin and peeling is too painful or severe to treat at home, a dermatologist or a family doctor may be able to provide some other options. Some cases of dry, cracking skin are so resistant to less aggressive treatment that powerful steroid-infused ointments and lotions must be used, usually with some good measure of success. Pain medications can also be prescribed to help the patient handle the discomfort of a severe sunburn, chemical burn or heat related burn.

Home Remedies & Creams

At home, those suffering painful sunburns can take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen and acetaminophen, and apply a topical aloe vera gel to the affected areas. Do not apply salves to blistered skin without a doctor’s recommendation.

Medicated steroidal creams, called corticosteroids, can help babies suffering from cradle cap and other types of dermatitis. While these creams have been shown to be effective, many doctors simply recommend washing the hair with baby shampoo and scrubbing the scalp gently with a washcloth every other day. Many doctors and mothers also recommend massaging baby oil into the scalp after washing baby’s hair. Out of baby oil? Try a few drops of olive oil from the pantry or mineral oil from the medicine chest instead.

Though some people may also claim petroleum jelly will help cure dermatitis of the scalp, the greasiness can actually contribute to the problem. If the condition appears to make the child fussy due to itchy or painful eczema, petroleum jelly will provide soothing relief. In cases where the scaly, yellow patches of crusty skin extend beyond the scalp or behind the ears, such as when they may appear on the child’s face, bother the child excessively, or if the condition has been getting worse over time, it is prudent to see a doctor.

When To Worry About Skin Conditions

Whenever skin is burned so badly that it blisters, if there is an unexplained rash that persists for more than a few days or gets worse, when unusual, new growths are noted or when severe pain accompanies any of the aforementioned, it is time to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified professional.

When possible, go to a skin doctor, or dermatologist, for any serious skin concerns, as this is their primary area of expertise. After all, a person wouldn’t go to a foot doctor for a tooth ache. Most general family practitioners are qualified to handle skin conditions, and you may need to visit one initially to satisfy the referral requirements to see a specialist under your medical insurance, but a dermatologist will likely be more up-to-date in the skin care field and in their knowledge of available treatment options.

A dermatologist will also likely be able to diagnose the root cause of any peeling skin from the onset, and this will help promote speedy but accurate treatment. If skin cancer is determined to be the cause of the symptoms, a skilled dermatologist will likely be able to immediately coordinate a treatment plan, and may refer the patient to an oncologist who specializes in the treatment of that particular cancer, if necessary.

The skin is the body’s largest organ. Its functions are to protect the body, keep the body at a good temperature, and allow for the sense of touch. It is the only organ that is always exposed to the external environment. There is over 20 square feet of skin on an average human adult. The skin is made of three layers. The innermost layer is made of subcutaneous fat. This layer helps the body to stay warm. The middle layer is called the dermis. The dermis contains nerve endings, oil and sweat glands, and blood vessels. The upper layer is the epidermis. This layer is made up of mostly dead skin cells.

Any time the skin is irritated, it can become itchy. Itching is a common feeling that all people and animals get at some point in their lives. Around 20 per cent of adults experience some kind of itching on a regular basis. It can be a very discouraging and uncomfortable feeling. It is known in the medical field as pruritus.

It leads to a desire or reflex to scratch the area that is itching. Itching is a defense mechanisms which tells the spinal cord and then the brain when something is touching the nerve endings of the dermis layer of the skin. Scratching is the immediate response to the stimulus. Scratching has one goal and that is to remove whatever is bothering the skin. Itching brings on a feeling similar to that of pain, except that instead of the withdrawal reflex that pain leads to, itching leads to a scratch reflex. Itch receptors are also more sensitive than pain receptors.

Causes of Itching

There are over 1000 things that can make a person itch. For the most part, these things include anything that can touch and irritate the skin and certain diseases.

An itch can be caused by something physical or neurological. An itch can come on by skin irritation or as a symptom of another disease. Just thinking about itching can make a person want to scratch themselves. Itching can come on without any symptom at all when the skin is irritated. Itching can also be associated with dry skin, bumps, spots, blisters, or redness.

On a human, there are many small insects that can be the cause itching, whether by the presence of the insect or by its bite or sting. These include:

• Head lice
• Pubic lice
• Body louse
• Mosquito or chigger bites.
• Spider bits
• Parasitic infections

Other things that cause itching include:

• Urticaria, commonly known as hives, which is a common allergic reaction
• Fungal infections
• Certain skin conditions, such as dermatitis, psoriasis, scabies, and tinea infections. Tinea infections are commonly called ring worm, jock itch, or athlete’s foot.
• Hodgkin’s disease
• Xerosis, commonly called dry skin. This is more common in the winter time or after frequent hot baths.
• Scab healing or scar growth
• Development of moles, pimples, or ingrown hairs
• Dandruff
• Chicken pox
• Psychiatric diseases
• Certain medications
• Menopause
• Malignant or internal cancer
• Sunburns
• Dry air
• Pregnancy
• Withdrawal from certain drugs
• Chronic stress
• Some internal diseases such as liver disease, kidney failure, celiac disease, iron deficiency anemia, certain types of cancer, diabetes, or thyroid problems. In these cases, the itch usually includes the entire body.

Prevention of Itching

• If your skin is sensitive, take extra precaution when washing. Take baths instead of showers.
• Use bath oils to keep the skin moisturized.
• Use mild soaps. Supper fatted or oil based soaps are less likely to cause dryness, but should not be used all the time.
• Use moisturizer on your hands often.
• Use sunscreen when outside.
• After you get out of a bath or shower, immediately put on moisturizer.
• Use mosquito repellant.
• Drink lots of water.
• Don’t wear wool or acrylic fabrics. Cotton and silk clothing are good for itches.
• Use unscented and mild laundry detergent.
• Don’t scratch. While scratching can solve some of the less serious itches, it can also cause problems.

For the most part, avoid scratching. Long term scratching can lead to a condition called neurodermatitis. Neurodermatitis is characterized by thick, leathery skin. Scratching can also cause bacterial infections and permanent changes in skin color or even scaring.

Treatment of itching

Since itching is such a common problem, and is usually not serious, there are many remedies that can be done at home to soothe the itch. Some of these remedies are:

– Baking Soda. Baking soda can be used many different ways to relieve itches. One cup of baking soda can be added to a bath to soothe all over itches or itches that are hard to reach. A baking soda paste can also be made out of one part water and three parts baking soda. This paste is applied directly to the skin, but shouldn’t be used if the skin is broken.

• Oatmeal. One or two cups of ground oatmeal in a warm bath tub can soothe itches.
• Evaporated Milk. Add one can to a bath and let it soothe away the itch.
• Apple cider vinegar. One tablespoon in a bath can help an itch.
• Ice can often relieve the itchy area. If ice is not readily available, cold water can help.
• If it’s the hands or feet that are itching, and the reason is dryness, apply a layer of petroleum jelly and wear gloves or socks.
• Cut your nails short to avoid irritating the skin if scratching is a problem.
• If itching is caused by dry skin, a simple moisturizing lotion may be the solution.

Treating itches using herb

• Peppermint or yellow dock in a bath tub is supposed to help itches
• Burdock root oil applied to the skin will stop itching and heal rashes
• Fresh chickweed – Soak two large handfuls in water until it softens. Allow it to cool then apply onto the itching area.
• Cloves and Juniper berries – American Indians were known for using these two things to stop an itch. The berries have anti-inflammatory properties and the cloves numb nerve endings. To make this concoction, melt three ounces of unsalted butter. In a different pan, melt about two tablespoons of beeswax.
• Basil – Basil also contains a nerve numbing agent. To use on itches, place a half ounce of dried basil leaves in one pint of boiling water. Cover it and allow it to cool. Use a cloth to spread the tea onto the itch.
• Mint – mint contains substances that are both anti-inflammatory and anesthetics. Place one ounce of mint leaves in a pint of boiling water. Cover and wait until it cools. Strain the tea and use a cloth to spread the tea onto the affected area.
• Thyme -Thyme also has anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties. Make a thyme tea using one half ounce of dried thyme in a one pint jar of boiling water. Just like the mint and basil tea, cover it and allow cooling. Strain the tea and use a cloth to spread onto the affected area. In China, this mixture will often contain an ounce of dandelion root as well.

Over the counter and store bought remedies for itching

Most over the counter medications for itching fall into two categories. They are either oral antihistamines or corticosteroid creams. Here is a list of some of the popular over the counter solutions.

• Aloe Vera Gel – Aloe vera gel is made from the aloe vera plant. When a leaf of an aloe vera plant is cut or crushed, a transparent fluid comes out. This fluid has soothing properties. It is commonly used for burns, but it also helps to relieve itching feelings. It is available for about five dollars a bottle.
• Ivarest – Ivarest temporarily relieves itching. It, like Benadryl, also blocks histamines. It can cause mild skin irritation.
• Calamine Lotion – Calamine lotion works well for itching that is associated with poison ivy, chicken pox, insect bites, and sun burns. It can occasionally irritate the skin or cause a rash. It can be bought for as little as $2 a bottle.
• Aveeno anti-itch concentrated lotion or cream – This lotion or cream brings quick relief to itches caused by minor skin irritations, insect bites, and chicken pox. There are no known side effects of the lotion. It can be bought for around $5 for an ounce of cream or $5 for 4 ounces of lotion.

Benadryl

There are many Benadryl products that can stop itching. Benadryl produces an anti itch cream that can be applied right onto the itch. It should not be used for chicken pox, measles, or on a large area of the body. Some people experience skin irritation when using the Benadryl cream. If an allergy or hives is what caused the itching, an oral Benadryl product can work to stop the itch.

Benadryl is an antihistamine. Histamines are what the body produces during an allergic reaction. Histamines cause swelling and sometimes itching. Benadryl blocks the histamines. Oral Benadryl has many side effects. Some of them include: tiredness, dizziness, coordination problems, heartburn, and thickening of bronchial secretions. All Benadryl products are available in most grocery or drug stores for under $15.

Doctors and Itching

If itching doesn’t improve in about two weeks, it is time to see a doctor. It is also good to seek medical attention if the itching is so severe that it distracts you from day-to-day activities. Unexplained itching or itches that include the entire body, or if the itch has other symptoms with it are also reasons to see a doctor.

When you see a doctor, the doctor will ask specific questions to determine the cause of the itch. The doctor may also perform certain tests if he or she thinks the cause of the itching is an internal problem.

If the doctor finds an underlying cause for the itching, he or she will treat that cause. When the cause is treating, the itching will go away. There are other ways that doctors may suggest treating itching. They include:

• Over the counter medications
• Light therapy – This is also known as phototherapy. During this procedure, the skin is exposed to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light. Multiple sessions may be needed to get itching under control, and each session can be very expensive.
• Wet dressings – This is a process where medicated creams are put on the itchy area and then covered with a damp material made of cotton. The cotton is usually soaked in water before being applied.

What Causes Sunburn

Being in direct sunlight for a prolonged period of time can result in sunburn, which is a painful burn caused by ultraviolet light on the surface of the skin. Ultraviolet light is broken down into two categories: UVA and UVB rays. Both can cause sunburn. Tanning beds have been designed to emit both of these rays and, therefore, can also cause sunburn.

The amount of time it takes to get a sunburn differs from person to person, though those with light colored or fair skin are often more susceptible to receiving burns on their skin from the suns rays. The reason for this is that their skin possesses less melanin; giving it both it’s lighter color and making it more likely to be burned after long period of sun exposure.

Avoiding & Protecting

Though sunburn is painful, completely avoiding exposing your skin to UV rays is a bad idea. In order to produce the needed quantity of Vitamin D, the human body requires sunlight. The key is not to overly-expose the skin to unnecessary amounts of UV rays.

The problem with this is that knowing how much is too much often requires experience sunburn in the first place. It will depend on the amount of melanin in an individual’s skin.

Sunburn, also know as sun poisoning, is not easily detected before the damage is already done. For the most part, the symptoms of sunburn do not begin to manifest until several hours after UV rays have burned the skin. The worst part of having sunburn will usually occur around twenty-four hours after the initial over-exposure.

Symptoms of Sunburn

The symptoms of sunburn can vary depending on the severity of the burn. Mild sunburn, for example, is a first-degree burn, and will have less severe symptoms. A third-degree sunburn will be much more painful and will be accompanied by more symptoms.

Symptoms of minor sunburn can be as simple as irritation of the skin, manifesting in a reddish color. Though uncomfortable, sunburn of this degree is rarely overly painful.

Severe Burns

A more severe sunburn can cause blisters. These often appear as bubbled up skin filled with a water-like fluid. This is the body’s way of trying to remove the sun poising from the skin. When the blisters “pop” this fluid is removed. The skin beneath the blistered area will often be sore and irritated once exposed to the elements.

Severe sunburn can also cause the body to go into shock. The circulation of the blood to the body’s organs can be effected, causing this condition. Symptoms of this degree can cause death and should therefore be taken seriously. This severity of sunburn usually requires medical attention.

More Symptoms

Sunburn symptoms can also include; flu-like symptoms, chills, fever, nausea and vomiting. Due to the skin being exposed to massive amounts of sun, sunburn can also be accompanied by dehydration and an imbalance of electrolytes.

Due to the frequency of dehydration accompanying sunburn, many people also experience headaches when they are sunburned. If sunburn is severe enough to cause blisters; there is a risk of infection. Blisters should be cleaned with some sort of antiseptic to avoid such infections.

Losing Skin

Another symptom of sunburn is the loss of skin. Several days after being over exposed to UVA/UVB rays, skin often dries out and begins to peel. This skin will soon after come unattached from the remaining skin, exposing the under-layer of skin to the elements.

This new skin can sometimes feel tight and uncomfortable. In the worst types of sunburn this process can be painful. In lesser conditions, the process is usually little more than an annoyance. The skin peeling stage of sunburn can occur anywhere from four to eight days after the initial sun exposure.

Cures and Remedies for Sunburn

Though there are many remedies than can make sunburn heal quicker, there is no cure that will immediately do away with this condition. Most of the medicinal and natural remedies for sunburn are geared toward removing the stinging sensation from the skin and returning it to a more natural color.

One very popular remedy for sunburn is Aloe vera. Many over-the-counter products exist containing the juice of the Aloe vera plant. It can be found in a variety of gels and ointments. This plant juice helps to lubricate the skin, making the condition less painful.

Many say it also removes the pain of the burn. In addition to purchasing products made from Aloe vera, it is also possible to extract the juice from the plant its self and topically apply it to the skin. Bath products also exist containing extract from this plant. Some find that adding these to their bath water also gives the same effect.

Taking a Cool Bath

Many find that taking a cool bath can help remove much of the pain from having sunburn. Though cool water can be good for the skin in this condition, cold bath water should be avoided. In cases of extreme sunburn exposing the skin to cold water can cause the body to go into shock.

Cold temperatures restrict blood flow. If the body is already nearing shock, taking a cold-water bath can push it over the edge into a dangerous state. If you believe you are nearing such a condition, seek medical attention immediately.

While taking a cool bath, many find that adding vinegar to the water can help to remove the sting of sunburned skin. Others say that putting cooked oatmeal into the water is more soothing. Which of these works better is a matter of personal preference.

Packing the Damaged Skin

Packing the wounded skin with cooked oatmeal is another method to reduce the severity of sunburn. In order to do this properly it is important to wait until the oatmeal has cooled to add it to the skin. Putting it in the refrigerator can help to speed this process.

Once it has cooled, pack the skin and allow the oatmeal to dry in place. When you decide to remove the oatmeal poultice, take a cool shower. Once again, avoid cold water as if can cause shock.

Calamine Extract

Calamine extract is another herbal remedy for sunburn. Both lotions containing this plant and using the plant itself can remove the stinging sensation associated with sunburn. As far as herbal remedies go, one can also use the root of the plant colloquial called Touch-Me-Nots.

Potatoes can also come in handy when trying to cure sunburn. In order to do this you should first wash the potatoes well. Once they are cleaned, cut them into small pieces and blend them until they have been liquefied. After the potatoes have become fluid it is a good idea to add water if the substance is on the dry side. Pat this water and potato mixture onto the burned skin in order to decrease the pain of sunburn. Remember to wash off the residue in a cool shower after it has dried on the skin.

Steroids

If sunburn is severe enough to require medical attention, a doctor may prescribe steroid medication to be taken orally. The patient will usually be told to take these pills for a time span of several days.

All individuals suffering from sunburn should pay special attention to amount of fluids they drink. Since dehydration often comes hand-in-hand with sunburn, drinking extra water can help to prevent side effects from worsening. This is especially important if the person suffering sunburn is experiencing nausea or vomiting.

When trying remedies for sunburn it is extremely important to avoid anything containing oil. Since a sunburn is an injury to the skin, the composition of the epidermis most be taken into consideration. Oils can block the pores, which can prevent air from reaching the wound. Though this may not sound like such a bad thing, trapping in the poison caused by prolonged exposure to the skin can cause infection of the injured areas.

Preventing Sunburn

Taking preventative measures to avoid sunburn is always a very good idea. Many suntan lotions exist for this reason and are relatively cheap. When looking to purchase an over-the-counter sunburn preventative it is important to find a product that blocks not only UVA but also UVB rays.

Suntan lotion exists in many levels. Each level is assigned a number. This number explains how much sun protection the product offers. Those with light skin or who are prone to receiving skin burns from the sun should consider suntan lotions with a higher level of SPF.

Exposed Skin

Before going out into the sun for a long period of time, apply suntan lotion to all areas of exposed skin. Some children find certain brands of suntan lotion of be greasy to the touch. Because of this, they often wipe the product off their skin. This should be avoided at all cost! If the suntan lotion is not allowed to sink into the skin it will not be able to protect it.

Many experts suggest that suntan lotion should be re-applied frequently if one is to remain in the sun for more than an hour. Re-applying the product once every one or two hours should greatly decrease chances of receiving sunburns.

Sunglasses and Hats

Sunglasses should be worn when in the sun. The eyes are also sensitive to sunburns and therefore should be covered from exposure. If eyes are sunburned, none of the aforementioned topical products should be used. Medical attention is necessary in these cases.

Some find that wearing a wide-brimmed hat can also help to shield the face. Due to the sensitivity of the skin around the eyes, this area is extremely important to protect. Suntan lotion, sunglasses, and a hat combined can help keep this area safe.

Signs Sunburn May Require Medical Attention

Though the average case of sunburn can be treated at home, certain symptoms should be paid special attention as they could denote the necessity of medical attention. Sunburn should be taken seriously and more severe symptoms could require that the sufferer seek emergency care. There a qualified medical professional can tell you which type of treatment will best fit the condition in question.

If the sunburn is causing severe pain, seek immediate medical attention. Some discomfort is to be expected, but if intense pain is experienced it could be a sign that third-degree burns have occurred even large blisters have yet to surface.

Blisters

Severe blisters are another sign that the sunburned person may need a doctor’s care. A few small, blistered patches are usually not a reason for concern; however, if blisters larger than a dime occur, topical treatments stronger than over-the-counter products could be needed.

Headaches

If the sunburn is accompanied by an extreme headache, fainting, confusion or diminished mental acuity medical attention should be sought immediately. Those suffering from prolonged nausea or prolonged vomiting will need a doctor’s care in order to avoid dehydration, which can require intravenous fluid delivery.

In instances of high-grade third-degree burns a doctor will likely transfer the patient to the burn unit where medical practitioners who are familiar with intensive damage to the skin can treat them.

Young Children

If the sunburn victim is a very young child, it is best to seek medical attention immediately. Since kids often have trouble communicating exactly how they, it is always better to err on the side of caution.

As is always the case with issues of medical concern, if an individual is unable to assess their physical condition, they should be taken the emergency room as soon as humanely possible. This can help to avoid making the situation worse and put the sufferer’s mind at ease.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a common skin infection found in a group of related fungal skin infections known as tinea. The medical terms associated with athlete’s foot include tinea pedia, plantaris, dermatophytosis Palmaris, and interdigitalis. These infections are caused by a number of mold-like fungi, known as dermatophytes, which reside in dead tissues on the hair, skin and nails.

Only those who have experienced athlete’s foot first hand know how uncomfortable the infection can be. Athlete’s foot typically occurs on the soles of the feet but can spread to areas between the toes and the toenails. The condition can also be spread by contact such as touching your foot then touching other areas of the body including your hands, palms, underarms or groin.

Symptoms

Symptoms of athlete’s foot can vary depending on the individual, stage and severity of the infection, and how the body reacts.

Some individuals experience an allergic reaction to the fungus that causes athlete’s foot.

This is called an ‘id reaction’ and can result in vesicles or blisters on areas of the body like the arms, hands and chest.

Treatment of the id reaction is usually cured with treatment of athlete’s foot.

While other symptoms may be present in individuals experiencing athlete’s foot, here you will find a list of the most common symptoms associated with the infection.

Symptoms Include

• Peeling and cracking of the skin around and between the toes
• Intense itching on the soles of the feet and surrounding area
• Redness or inflammation that worsens as the infection progresses
• Blisters on the soles of the feet as well as along the sides of the feet
• Scaling and flaking on the soles of the feet and in between the toes
• Burning or stinging sensation in the area of the infection
• Crusting or oozing of the soles of the feet that may spread to the toes
• Thick, discolored and crumbled skin if the fungus spreads to the nails
• Any of the above symptoms can also occur on other body parts if spread

Causes

Athlete’s foot is caused by dermatophytes, tiny parasites that live on certain areas of the body including the skin. Dermatophytes can be divided into three separate groups according to which host they prefer.

• Zoophile – Fungi that prefers an animal host
• Geophile – Fungi that prefers a soil host
• Anthropophile – Fungi that prefers a human host

In the majority of cases, athlete’s foot is caused by the anthropophile fungi as it favors a human host. The three most common species of anthropophile fungi include Epidermophyton, Microsporum, and Trichophyton. These three species account for more than 90 percent of all fungal infections that occur on the skin.

Athlete’s foot is not limited to only athletes or those who are in good physical shape. The infection can occur on any person that remains damp or moist on their foot or feet for a certain period of time. Those who wear tight fitting clothing or those who don’t dry their feet properly on a consistent basis are more at risk for athlete’s foot.

Every person is acceptable to athlete’s foot as we all have one or more of the fungi in our bodies. Most of these fungi are harmless and simply feed on dead skin cells. Athlete’s foot is more common in young individuals and adults. The condition is also highly contagious and can be spread on our own bodies or to others. This can occur through skin-to-skin contact or indirectly through objects such as shoes, floors, towels, clothing, etc.

Risk Factors

Certain individuals are more at risk for developing athlete’s foot depending on certain lifestyle conditions and choices. Clothing options such as closed toe shoes (especially plastic lined shoes) and thick socks that cause sweating of the feet for a long period of time can lead to the infection.

Those who sweat profusely while working, exercising or participating in other daily activities are also at risk.

Although you may not experience any of the above factors, you may still be at risk if you work, study or play in a public area. Direct contact with an infected person or with materials that are infected with the parasites such as socks, shoes, public showers or gyms can cause the spread of athlete’s foot to an area on your own body. The risk is greater when the environment is warmer as this is grounds for the fungus to grow and invade the skin.

Risk Factors Include:

• Not keeping your feet dry, clean and maintained
• Excessive perspiration
• Humid, warm or hot weather or environment
• Disorders or conditions of the immune system
• Prior infections of athlete’s foot
• Wearing tight, close toed shoes or poorly ventilated shoes
• Walking barefoot at home or in public areas

Prevention Tips

Treatment of athlete’s foot begins with preventing the infection from occurring in the first place. For those who are prone to athlete’s foot, prevention is a much bigger issue that can be maintained through a variety of effective tips and techniques.

Since athlete’s foot can easily be spread from person to person, it’s important to keep your family and community safe by not sharing or leaving infected items where others could potentially come in contact with the materials.

Keep places where your feet touch such as floors, showers, bathtubs, and beds clean and maintained. When in public areas such as swimming pools or gyms, keep a pair of flip flops handy to prevent walking on the floor and picking up or spreading the infection. Disinfectant spray should be used in kitchens and bathrooms in the home. Clothing, towels, bed sheets and blankets should be washed on a regular basis in hot water to help kill the growing fungus. Be sure not to leave moist or damp dirty laundry lingering in the washer or hamper for any period of time to avoid the spread of parasites. Avoid sharing these types of materials among family members and consider doing separate loads of wash.

Special soaps can be used on a regular basis to prevent fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. These fungal soaps contain active ingredients, such as tea tree oil, that help fight off and prevent the infection. They also contain Aloe Vera and are free of chlorine and sediments, leaving your skin moisturized and smooth.

Consider sanitizing the inside of your shoes with a germicidal shoe tree. This will help keep your shoes free of fungal parasites. Keep your feet dry by applying an antiperspirant made especially for feet perspiration. Replace the inserts of your shoes on a regular basis and replace any old exercise shoes or sneakers. After participating in any type of physical activity, use a soap that contains anti-fungal agents and antibacterial qualities. Try to wear open toed shoes or sandals whenever possible to allow your feet time to breathe and receive fresh air.

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

Typically, the diagnosis of athlete’s feet is made by a general doctor or podiatrist (foot doctor) by a visual exam of the foot or feet. Skin scrapings may be needed to test for the specific type of fungi the patient is experiencing to determine the best route of treatment. Microscopic examinations may also be needed to rule out more serious problems such as a bacterial infection.

Various tests may be recommended, such as a fungal culture or an examination of the patients’ foot under ultraviolet light. Your doctor may also do a potassium hydroxide (KOH) test to diagnosis athlete’s foot. This is done by carefully scraping scaly skin from the soles of the feet and placing them onto a microscope slide. KOH is then added to the slide and it’s placed beneath a microscope to look for signs of fungus. In many cases, a doctor will be able to diagnosis athlete’s foot simply by sight.

Common Symptoms

It’s important to rule out other causes of common symptoms associated with athlete’s foot. Peeling or redness of the feet may be caused by environmental factors such as tight shoes, excessive perspiration due to warm weather or wearing shoes without socks. Adhesive cements and certain dyes found in some types of shoes can also cause irritation to the feet.

Other similarities to the symptoms of athlete’s foot can be due to nail polishes, lotions or powders that the patient applied their selves that caused irritation. Conditions such as scabies, eczema and psoriasis may be other possibilities for your symptoms. It’s best to talk to a doctor to rule these out.

If all attempts for diagnosis of athlete’s foot come back inconclusive, a biopsy of the infected skin can be taken for examination. Your doctor may recommend you to a special physician, such as a dermatologist (skin doctor), podiatrist (foot doctor) or a foot health practitioner to future examine your condition. Once a proper diagnoses is made, your doctor can recommend effective treatment methods for you to consider and may write you’re a prescription for a topical or oral medication to help treat the infection.

Treatment Options

There are many over the counter, natural and home remedies available for the treatment of athlete’s foot. While some of these treatments are highly effective in curing the infection, others simply treat the symptoms causing reoccurring episodes. Not everyone responds to all treatments so it’s best to talk to your doctor to see which may be the best fit for you. This could depend on your allergies, medical history, current conditions and various other factors.

Herbal & Home Remedies: Herbal treatments are popular as they are usually effective in treating the condition and have little or no side effects. Common herbal and home remedy treatments for athlete’s foot include tea tree oil, Listerine (mouth wash) and hydrogen peroxide. To sooth and treat your sore feet, soak them in a solution of two teaspoons of salt per one pint of warm water. These home remedy provides an unappealing environment for fungus and makes over the counter treatments more effective. A solution of 25 percent aluminum chloride and water provides similar results.

Fungus Between Your  Toes

For fungus between your toes, a mixture of baking soda and water can be used to form a paste. Rub the paste onto the site of the infection, allow drying time then rinse with warm water. While in the shower, use a foot brush to rub away dead skin cells, leaving smooth new infection free skin. Remember to continue applying a foot cream or powder, wearing dry socks and choosing shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe.

Alternative treatments may also be used to treat athlete’s foot. The following oils and extracts have been found effective in relieving symptoms of athlete’s foot and with regular use, treating the infection: Topical oils (example-tea tree oil), onion extract, garlic extract, boric acid and Epson salts. Rubbing one or more of the following products on your feet twice a day or in a mixture of warm water can lead to foot relief.

Herbal & Home Remedies Include

• Keep feet as dry as possible, especially between the toes
• Wear cotton socks and change them once or twice per day
• Avoid tight closed toed shoes as these cause heat build-up
• Never go in public areas barefoot, especially moist or warm areas
• Apply foot creams and powders regularly to keep feet healthy
• Always wash your socks in hot water to kill all potential bacteria
• Avoid yeast products such as baked goods and breads
• Vinegar and alcohol should not be consumed by chronic sufferers
• Apply grapefruit seed extract to your feet to fight off fungus

Pharmaceutical Remedies

Over the counter and prescription athlete foot creams, powders and liquids are available. These usually contain active ingredients such as clotrimazole, miconazole and tolnaftate. If used on a regular basis, these types of treatments usually work well but may take longer to see results. Athlete foot powders work by keeping the feet dry throughout strenuous activity and perspiration.

Along with these self-care tips, keeping your feet dry and clean, washing your feet frequently with warm soap and water and wearing dry, clean socks can help keep the infection under control. If the over-the-counter remedies fail to work after two to four weeks of use, you may want to consider visiting your doctor for a stronger medication. Your doctor may prescribe a topical or oral medication such as terbinafine or ketoconazole to treat the fungus. Antibiotics may also be needed for bacterial infections.

Side effects from oral athlete’s foot medications may include rashes, gastrointestinal upset and abnormal liver function. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning against oral Lamisil and Sporanox in May of 2001 due to links between the medication and rare cases of liver failure and even death. They also have a history of weakening the heart contractions so they should be avoided by those with heart problems.

Diaper Rash

Introduction to Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is a fairly common symptom among newborn babies, infants and toddlers as they wear diapers. It mainly occurs when a wet diaper causes friction against the baby’s skin and irritates it enough to cause a rash.

Parents worry about their children’s health when they see diaper rash on their baby’s bottom and often have confusion about what to do about it.

Luckily, it is a temporary condition that is easily treatable and preventable for the future as well.

There are simple steps parents can take to reduce the inflammation and start the healing. Most remedies can be done at home and will not require any medications, unless it is a severe and unique case. Here are some common symptoms of diaper rash and easy tips to help baby feel better fast.

Symptoms

Diaper rash is most characterized as the appearance of a rash on the baby’s genital area. The skin will look tender, red and perhaps even puffy. You may notice red bumps as well. However, it is also common for babies of a darker complexion to get the same type of rash, but it will not always be red.

It can be lighter in color, or even more similar to their own skin tone. In addition to the genital area, the rash can also appear on the buttocks area and around the thighs. It can also be on the stomach and back of the baby. The bumps may bleed or ooze a little if the baby scratches it or there is a lot of friction. While a little bleeding is normal, anything more may indicate the onset of a secondary infection or a different type of skin condition.

Sometimes there is confusion with other skin conditions which can be more severe than diaper rash. While diaper and rash and another skin condition may occur at the same time, the more severe skin condition is often dismissed as diaper rash and not treated properly.

If the skin has blisters, open sores, patches of scabs with oozing fluids or moderate bleeding, these should be brought to the attention of your baby’s pediatrician for further treatment. This can be signs of eczema, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis or other skin conditions. You should also contact your doctor if the diaper rash continues or worsens for a week or longer, despite treatments at home.

Causes and Risk Factors

Wet or Soiled Diapers

There are various causes and risk factors that may cause diaper rash on babies. Not every baby’s skin will react the same and therefore, have different triggers to getting diaper rash. The most common cause of diaper rash, however, is a wet or soiled diaper that has not been changed frequently enough. This can result in diaper rash in two ways.

The first way is caused by chafing of a wet diaper against a baby’s skin, causing irritation. The other way is the urine or feces causing a skin infection from being next to the skin for a long period of time. Some babies will get diaper rash if they are not changed within an hour, while others are more prone to a rash if the diaper is left on overnight.

When the baby starts to sleep through the night and does not require nighttime feedings or wakes up during the nighttime, diaper rashes are more common. Diapers are sometimes left unchanged on the skin for up to 8 hours. Fecal matter tends to be more irritating to the skin than urine. If they have diarrhea, it is even more risky for diaper rash to occur.

Bacterial Infection

A yeast infection or bacterial infection may occur when the diaper is left on for a period of time. The combination of a wet diaper and an enclosed space results in a moist environment that causes bacteria and yeast to grow.

This gets deposited on the skin, and if the diaper is not changed frequently, it will breed the infection, causing itchy bumps and red dots on the skin. This can be more painful than a diaper rash caused by chafing. The bumps can often be found in the creases of the skin, where moisture tends to collect.

Even though it might originate in the creases of the skin, it can spread to the rest of the genital area, buttocks and stomach and thighs. Yeast infections can also occur if the baby is on antibiotics since the medicine kills both good and bad bacteria. This can cause an imbalance of bacteria, which leads to a yeast infection.

Breast Milk and Formula

Another cause of diaper rash is the type of food the baby is eating or drinking. Breastfed babies tend to have less diaper rashes than formula fed babies, but it is possible. Sometimes it can be due to the type of food a mother is eating.

The baby might be allergic to foods like nuts or soy and are receiving trace amounts of this food in the milk. However, the breasts do a great job acting as a filter and this is not common. For babies who do use formula and get diaper rashes frequently, it might be due to an allergy.

Sometimes babies are lactose intolerant and require soy-based or another based formula instead. Switching from breast milk to a formula for the first time can also increase the rate of diaper rashes as well. Breast milk is made up of the perfect combination of nutrients for a baby and switching to formula can be difficult on baby’s digestive system and he or she might produce stools that cause irritation to the skin.

Different Foods

When it comes to solid food, such as pureed baby food and rice cereal, we see a higher rate of diaper rashes occurring. The age bracket for babies to start solid foods tends to be between 4-6 months of age. The reason why diaper rashes are more prevalent during this age period is due to the changes of diet for baby.

The stools become different as well. The changes in stool are foreign to baby’s body and can cause the skin to react negatively. As new foods are introduced within the first 12 months of age, the stool will change and stools can still pose a risk factor for diaper rash. In addition, the baby might also be allergic to the type of food he or she is trying as well.

Irritating Materials

Sometimes the type of diaper or wipes can be the cause of infection. Most diapers and baby wipes contain dyes and fragrances that can cause sensitive skin to break out. They also tend to be bleached in order to give the appearance of “clean”. These all can be irritants to a baby’s delicate skin, especially in the genital area that is particularly sensitive.

Other products that often contain unnecessary fragrances and dyes are baby lotions, baby powders, detergent and fabric softener. Even products that are marketed towards babies tend to have added substances that may smell great and look nice, but can be harmful to baby’s bottom. Even baby clothing can be the source of a diaper rash or other types of rashes because of the type of material used, pesticides used in the cotton, or the detergent that it was washed in.

Neglect or Abuse

Sometimes a parent or caregiver can be neglectful and leave a baby with an unchanged, soiled diaper for hours at a time. This is different than leaving a diaper on overnight or by accident, because of certain circumstances. Neglect or abuse is intentional and demeaning to a child.

A diaper rash may be just one of many problems the baby is having if he or she is suffering from abuse or neglect. Just to be clear, not all diaper rashes are due to abuse or neglect. However, if you do suspect this is occurring, be sure to report it immediately. This can also be an occurrence among adults who wear adult diapers or incontinence problems.

Although this article focuses on diaper rashes on babies, many of the causes, concerns and treatments can be applied toward adults as well. If you are an adult who is a recipient of neglect or abuse, seek emergency assistance as soon as possible. This can be done by contacting the police or a trusted adult.

Prevention Options and Treatment

The prevention options and treatment of diaper rash tend to be the same types of methods. These include changing the diaper routinely, using gentle products and being aware of the foods baby is eating.

There are also a few steps you can take to treat the rash when it occurs, but will not necessarily prevent future occurrences. Each of these methods will be discussed in greater detail.

They are also very easy to do and can be done in the convenience at home. It requires simple changes in your routine that are beneficial to the child. Best of all, most of the treatments are free or low-cost to you, especially in the long run.

Frequent Changes

When it comes to preventing and clearing diaper rash, the number one thing you can do for your baby is change him or her on a regular basis. In a newborn baby, it is normal to expect 1-3 wet diapers a day. Their stools will also look sticky and dark. Within a few days, you should see 3-4 wet diapers a day, as well as regular bowel movements.

Breastfed babies tend to have a mustard-color, seedy diaper, which is completely normal. Formula fed baby’s stools tend to be darker, which is normal as well. By the 6th day, expect 6-8 wet or soiled diapers a day. As the baby turns 4 weeks of age, it is common to have 4-6 wet diapers a day, with about half of those being bowel movements.

Breastfed Babies

It is important to note that breastfed babies can sometimes have less bowel movements than their formula-fed counterparts. As the child becomes a toddler, wet diapers may increase, as well as the amount of urine during each wet cycle. However, the bowel movements tend to decrease as low as once a day or sometimes less. Although these are the average guidelines, baby’s frequency of wet and soiled diapers can be different. Talking with a pediatrician about frequency concerns can also be helpful.

With these frequency rates in mind, you can get a feel for how often your baby may need changing. Usually you will be able to detect a dirty diaper just by the scent, but if that is not the case, it would be a good idea to check once an hour when they are infants, except when you are both sleeping.

Stool Characteristics

Babies who are fed a strictly breastfed diet tend to have stools that are less smelly in nature as well, so it is a good idea to check them frequently for bowel movements. Diapers have evolved so that the technology in the material pulls moisture away from baby’s skin and absorbs it into the gel beads in the diaper.

What this means for you, as the parent, is not being able to always tell if a baby has a wet diaper. It may appear and feel dry to the touch, when in fact, underneath the layer of material are wet pellets. This new technology can also mask odors, making it harder to detect a diaper that needs changing.

Some diapers have added a line of blue to the inside bottom of the diaper than turns green when urine touches it. This can be helpful to see if your baby needs changing.

Technology in Treatments

It is similar to the technology used in training pants that help toddlers know when they need to change.
You will begin to get a feel for your baby’s changing routine. You might notice that they have more wet diapers at a certain time of the day or night, but less frequent as another portion of the day.

This is good because it means your baby will be changed regularly and will be less prone to getting a diaper rash. At the same time, if they already have a diaper rash, it would be a good idea to change even more frequently than before.

While they may have been able to stay in a wet diaper for an hour before, it would be best to change them even faster than that so you can be assured their bottoms will always be dry and placed next to a clean diaper, helping them heal faster.

Diaper Rash Applications:

There are a plethora of diaper rash ointments, creams and applications sold for babies. These can be helpful for parents on the go, but are not necessary and can actually make the infection worse. There are certain symptoms you should look for before applying diaper rash cream.

First of all, if there are any open wounds or bleeding, you do not want to apply cream. The reason behind this is because the cream will get into the cuts and can cause a bacterial infection. It also hinders the skin from healing because it is being blocked by the cream.

If you are out and about and do not have the option of letting their bottom dry, using diaper rash creams can be a short-term option. Breast milk applied to the rash is used in many countries where diaper rash creams are not an option and are costly. This is a free and natural way to heal the skin.

Letting the Skin Dry

Moisture is what caused the problem and the use of creams and such does not allow the rash to dry. After changing the baby, let him or her be naked for awhile, as long as it is not a cold environment. Getting some air to the body is actually a great way to dry the skin and start the healing.

If you are worried about the baby peeing, the use of a loose cloth diaper can come in handy. You can make your own using used clothing such as old t-shirts or soft flannel. Some parents switch to cloth diapers all together to save money and prevent diaper rash. In some cultures, this is the norm and is a gentle way to take care of the baby.

Colloidal Oatmeal

In order to ease the pain from a diaper rash, a warm soak in colloidal oatmeal will do the trick. Colloidal oatmeal works in two ways. It sooths the pain and it dries the skin. As mentioned before, we want to remove the moisture and drying actually helps heal the skin.

You can let the baby sit in the bath for 10 minutes and just enjoy the water. Be sure to dry them gently and thoroughly afterward. A box of 10 packets of colloidal oatmeal from Aveeno will cost you around $5.

Foods

When it comes to foods that cause irritation to the baby, there is no clear cut set of instructions to follow, except to notice which foods cause diaper rashes or an allergic reaction or not. Introduce one food at a time in order to always be aware of how the baby’s body reacts to each one. If you suspect allergies, talk with the baby’s pediatrician for further information.

Switching Products

Switching the types of products you use can make a difference in the way your baby’s skin reacts to products. Nearly every brand, from Huggies to Pampers sells a line of their diapers and wipes that are fragrance free and dye free. Other brands, such as Seventh Generation and White Cloud are void of fragrances all together.

Seventh Generations goes even further by not bleaching their diapers or wipes and uses organic materials. With the exception of White Cloud, each of these diapers and wipes cost more than regular diapers. Switching to fragrance free products such as lotions and detergent cost about the same as the ones you have already been using and are available in generic brands as well.

You can also switch out your baby powder for cornstarch which is gentler to the skin and does not have added substances to it and is still used by various Native American tribes today.

Resources

Mayoclinic.Com

EmedicineHealth.Com

EverydayHealth.Com

What exactly is a cold sore?

A cold sore is a common ailment. They are commonly called fever blisters, or they are known medically as herpes labialis.

A cold sore consists of small blisters that form close to the mouth and on the lips. These blisters cause the skin close to them to become red, swollen and sore.

Many times, the blisters will burst open and a clear fluid may come out of them. Afterword, they will scab over and usually heal, on their own, in about two weeks.

What are symptoms of a cold sore?

The symptoms of cold sores differ from person to person.

Common symptoms include pain around the mouth and parts of the lips, a sore throat, swollen glands in the neck or a high fever.

Young children may drool slightly before getting a cold sore. Someone who has had one before may just be able to “feel” a new cold sore coming.

What causes a cold sore?

The herpes simplex virus is usually the culprit of these painful sores. There are two types of the herpes simplex virus. These are known simply as herpes simplex virus one and herpes simplex virus two. Each of these can cause cold sores, although the sores are usually caused by HSV-1.

The virus will often sneak its way into the body via a break in the skin close to the mouth. It can spread through infected bodily fluids when people do things like kiss or share a razor or eating utensil.

Once a person has an episode of herpes, the virus stays within the body. It lies dormant and can emerge at any time at or near the original site. Reemergence of the virus can be triggered by menstruation, fever, stress, fatigue, or sun exposure.

What are risk factors of getting a cold sore?

The biggest risk factor of getting a cold sore is a previous experience with a cold sore. Once a person has the herpes simplex virus, it never leaves the body and that person will most likely get other cold sores throughout his or her life, especially during times of stress.

A risk factor of getting a cold sore for the first time is exposure to someone with a cold sore. It can be spread easily through contaminated objects.

Age is another risk factor. Infants and young children have a high chance of getting cold sores.

Immunocompromised people, such as those with AIDS or people on chemotherapy are also at high risk for cold sores. Cold sores may spread to large parts of the lower face or even invade organs.

What are some good ways to prevent cold sores?

Once a person has contracted the herpes simplex virus, the best way to prevent a cold sore is by boosting the immune system. If the virus hasn’t been contracted, cold sores can be prevented by avoiding the herpes simplex virus itself. To do so, stay away from body fluids of an infected person, and don’t share eating utensils, drinking cups, or similar items with a person who has a cold sore.

How is a cold sore diagnosed?

Most of the time a doctor can diagnose a cold sore simply by looking at it and asking a few questions. Cold sores can sometimes be mistaken for other things such as abrasions, razor burns, pimples, angular stomatitis, and canker sores. In these cases where the diagnosis is not obvious, the doctor may order tests to confirm what is really going on.

One test a doctor can do is to take a swab of the sore and incubate it to see if the virus can be detected. The doctor will use a swab to get a sample of the infected area. The swab must be taken in the first 48 hours of the outbreak and before the blister has crusted over.

The sample will be incubated for a minimum of three to five days and may confirm the presence and type of herpes simplex virus. However, a negative viral culture does not mean that the patient is actually negative for the virus. If the swab is taken after the sore has started to heal, the virus may not show up in lab results.

Blood tests can also be done to correctly diagnose cold sores and to rule out other problems such as canker sores, impetigo, syphilis, chickenpox, or lip cancer.

What are complications the go along with cold sores?

When a cold sore is present, the herpes simplex virus can spread to another part of the infected person’s body and cause another cold sore. This is known as autoinoculation. The most serious type of autoinoculation is known as ocular herpes. It is characterized by lesions and severe pain around the eye. It can lead to serious eye damage or blindness.

The herpes simplex virus can rarely cause encephalitis in the brain. This infection requires antiviral medications to be given intravenously and hospitalization.

Rarely, people that experience a cold sore outbreak can also experience erythema nodosum. This is a nonspecific skin reaction that presents itself as redness and painful skin lumps that are usually on the front side of the legs. This condition usually resolves on its own in three to six weeks.

How are cold sores treated?

If left alone, a cold sore will usually heal on its own in a few days. However, they can cause pain and embarrassment. If desired, there are different ways to treat cold sores and help them heal faster.

What are home remedies for cold sores?

When an outbreak occurs, it is important for the person to wash his or her hands frequently to reduce the spread of the virus to various other body parts or to other people.

One home remedy for a cold sore is covering the sore with petroleum jelly or with a local anesthetic ointment containing benzocaine to alive the pain. However, covering the sore with makeup will most likely make the sore worse.

Getting a new toothbrush after the outbreak has started and after the cold sore is gone is a good way to stop the spread of the virus. Toothbrushes can harbor the virus and spread them to other areas of the mouth.
Put some kind of sun protection on the lips before going outside. Use something that contains at least 15 SPF or higher.

Eating Licorice

Eat licorice. Studies have shown that glycyrrhizic acid, which is found in licorice, can help to stop cold sores. Licorice powder is also available, but be careful. There can be negative side effects if too much is used.
Use an ice pack on the sore when it first arrives.

Getting the sore cold may provide relief from the pain and it also cuts down the time that a cold sore will be there. Popsicles work too, but don’t eat juice bars. The acid in juice bars may irritate the sore.

Use Milk

Soak a cotton ball in milk and apply it to the sore. This will work to relieve the pain. It can also work to speed the healing, especially if put on the lip when you feel a cold sore coming.

What are herbal remedies for cold sores?

Some herbs that are helpful in healing cold sores are lemon balm and Saint John’s wort.

Either of these should be dabbed on to the lip or mouth as soon as a cold sore is noticed. They should be use several times a day.

Oregon grape is another herb that works on cold sores because it is an antiviral herb. Other herbs to consider using are ones that will boost the immune system such as Echinacea. One teaspoon of strong Echinacea root decoration can be swished around in the mouth for several minutes then swallowed three times per day.

Chamomile is another thing that can be used. It contains a substance called bisabolol that helps heal sores of the mucous membranes. Herbs can cause side effects, and can interfere with other medications being taken. Many herbs should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women. Talk to a doctor before starting any herbal routine. Most of these herbs are available as supplements at local drug stores or online for a pretty decent price.

What are the medicinal remedies for cold sores?

There are many prescription and non-prescription creams, tablets, liquid drops, lip balms, and gels that claim to help cold sores.

Some of them include:

Abreva Abreva is a non-prescription cold sore medicine approved by the FDA to shorten healing time of cold sores. It is placed directly on the cold sore. It has side effects such as headaches, painful menstrual periods, and a stuffy or runny nose. It sells from $12 to $20 dollars for a .7 oz container.

Anbesol Cold sore Therapy Ointment with Vitamin E and Aloe. This provides maximum strength pain relief of cold sores and moisturizes while it treats and protects. This treatment can cause stinging, severe allergic reactions, edema, cardiovascular problems, dermatitis, and methemoglobinemia. It sells for about $7 for a .33 oz container.

Quantum Super Lysine plus Cold Sore Cream This is to be applied at the first sign of cold sores. It is said to be able to block the outbreak or speed up the healing time. It sells for $11 for a .75 oz bottle.

Cold Sore Rescue Cold Sore Rescue is an all natural gel that combines anti-viral and anti-inflammatory herbs to promote quick healing of cold sores. It sells for $9.95 for a .27 oz tube.

Orajel Medicated Cold Sore Swabs These are easy to apply swabs that go directly onto the cold sore. These are about $4.00 per box.

Herpetrol Cold Sore Relief Gel This gel works to relieve the pain that accompanies cold sores. It does not heal the cold sore any faster than normal. It sells for $6-$8 dollars for a .25 oz package.

Zilactin Cold Sore Gel This gel creates a temporary film around the sore that will reduce irritation and temporarily relieves pain from cold sores. It sells for about $7 for a .25 oz package.

These are just a few of the commercially available products that claim to help cold sores heal or to relieve the pain of cold sores. There are only two FDA approved prescription medications. They are Denavir cream 1% and Zovirax cream 5%.

Denavir cream works by interfering with the growth of the herpes virus. It can reduce the pain of the cold sore and speed up the healing. It is a cream that is applied directly to the sore. Side effects are rare, but may include headaches, hives, itching, numbing of the skin, pain, rash, skin discoloration, swelling in the mouth and throat, taste or smell alteration, tingling, or worsened condition.

Zovirax cream is used in the same way as Denavir cream. Its side effects include allergic reactions, burning, dry or cracked lips, dry or flaky skin, eczema, hives, inflammation, itchy spots, or stinging. Prescription medications are generally more expensive than non-prescription, depending on the type of insurance you have.

If you don’t have insurance, or if you insurance plan doesn’t cover prescriptions, use natural or over the counter remedies or allow the cold sore to heal on its own.

Resources

EmedicineHealth.Com

MedicineNet.Com

WebMd.Com

Cracked Heels

Dry skin is a primary culprit of cracked heels. The body produces no oil in the palms of hands and on the bottom of the feet.

Therefore, the area remains dry most of the time. The feet require more care than other parts of the body in order to remain moisturized and free of cracks.

Today, most individuals engage in pedicures to remove dead skin and promote healthy skin. Regular cleaning and removal of the skin through various techniques will minimize the effects of cracked heels.

Individuals who do not use proper hygiene on their feet accumulate up to 30 times more skin in that area than on other parts of the body.

Heels are also more prone to cracking with age. Cracks or deep wounds may facilitate the development of infections. Calluses are thickened skin that may also form on the toes.

Where to Expect Foot Cracks

Though cracks in the skin may arise anywhere on the body, the most common is area is the rim of the heel and web of toes. This also happens to be the most frequently or constantly used part of the body. Dry skin and psoriasis are common causes of cracked heels.

Most foot problems arise due to neglect and oversight with regard to foot care. Cracked feet, corns and other common feet ailments are treatable and easily avoidable.

Avoid Infections

Cracked heels are not a harmful in anyway except when the fissures or cracks are deep. Over time, the cracks tend to become painful, and the skin begins to bleed.

This could lead to infection. This situation is avoidable. However, those already suffering from chronic ailments, such as diabetes or a low immune system, may experience more problems than people who have general good health.

Athlete’s Foot is also a common cause culprit of cracked heels.

There are several types of Athlete’s Foot that may contribute to cracked heels

• Toe Web Infection
• Moccasin Web Infection
• Vesicular Web Infection

Each of these common infections will be explained thoroughly in the causes section of this article.

Not only will attention to the feet reduce the chances of contracting Athlete’s Foot and other awful skin conditions, foot care may also release stress and remove toxins from the body.

Sufferers from arthritis, fatique and hyperglycemia may benefit from foot care, as well. Foot care will also enhance the person’s beauty. Most individuals become self conscious when attempting to wear sandals with cracked heels.

By maintaining proper moisture on the feet, individuals will feel confident about wearing sandals that expose the feet. Cracked heels will draw unwanted attention to feet and detract from an individual’s overall appearance. Podiatrists recommend focusing on the foot care each day or once per week to maintain a healthy appearance.

Alternative Names

Cracked heels are medically referred to as heel fissures. The wounds are linear and superficial in most instances. This becomes a problem when the cuts are deep into the dermis and become painful. Cracked heels may also indicate a zinc or omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.

Cracked heels may also occur due to Athlete’s Foot. Athlete’s Foot is often referred to as “tinea pedis.” This term describes an infection of the skin that may crack, scale, flake or itch. The infection is fungal and may also be referred to as the ringworm of the foot.

The fungus is in the Trichophyton family. Most individuals contract the fungus through the feet, but the disease may spread to other areas of the body. The fungus may also spread to the groin area. The fungus thrives in moist and damp areas.

Therefore, it is most often contracted in areas, such as showers or bathhouses, where people walk around barefoot. The best way to prevent Athlete’s Foot is through good hygiene. Pharmaceuticals and other treatments are available to cure the fungus once contracted.

Symptoms

Individuals suffering from cracked feet will notice small tiny lines in the feet. This marks the beginning of dry, cracked heels. In the case of Athlete’s Foot,

the symptoms may be any of the following

• Cracking
• Scaling
• Flaking
• Itching
• Splitting Skin
• Blisters

Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek a physician or treat with an antibiotic. Several over the counter creams are available.

Other symptoms may be specific to the type of Athlete’s Foot contracted.

Some of the related symptoms to Athlete’s Foot are listed below

Toe Web Infection

When an individual contracts a toe web infection, then the skin will often turn moist or pale white. The feet may itch, burn, and develop an odor. As the condition worsens, the skin between the toes will crack, peel and become scaly.

If the condition gets even worse, a bacterial infection may also develop which may cause the skin to break down further. The skin may also blister or form a vesicular infection. The condition may spread to the lower leg. Most toe web infections will respond well to treatment.

Moccasin Web Infection

This type of infection begins with dryness, itching, burning, scaly skin, or minor irritation. Over time, the condition causes the skin to thicken and the heels to crack.

In some instances, toe nails may fall off after they become infected. Before the nail falls off, the nail will thicken and crumble. If the infection is persistent, it may often return if not treated. Good personal hygiene will prevent the disease from returning. Most of these infections are chronic and may be difficult to treat.

Vesicular Web Infection

These infections begin with an outbreak of blisters. The feet may suffer from inflammation and become red in appearance. Blisters may erupt again after the initial infection. Bacterial infections may develop if the condition is left untreated. This type of condition frequently develops when a toe web infection is left untreated. Blisters may also appear on the palms and fingers. These types of infections do respond well to treatment.

If the condition spreads to other parts of the body, the disease is no longer referred to as tinea pedis. The fungus will be called astinea corporis, which afflicts the body. Alternatively, if the fungus spreads to the groin area, it is referred to as, tinea cruris or “jock itch” or “dhobi itch.” Onychomycosis is the name of the fungus if it spreads to the toe nails.

Causes

Some individuals suffer dry, cracked heels due to poor hygiene. The person may not exfoliate daily or moisturize well enough.

Additionally, it could occur because the person is not drinking enough water. Each of these factors may contribute to dry, cracked heels.

Individuals are recommended to moisturize the feet with a heavy cream and scrub daily. Petroleum jelly or other moisture rich products designed specifically for the heels may help.

Cracked heels may also indicate a deficiency in zinc and omega-3 fatty acids.

Athlete’s Foot may be contracted from moist, damp areas, such as a bath house or shower. It may also be contracted by sharing towels or shoes with someone who has Athlete’s Foot. Tinea pedis develops in a variety of ways. The fungus may also be treated in a variety of ways. To determine the cause and treatment, identify the type of Athlete’s Foot the individual is experiencing.

Some of the most common types of Athlete’s Foot are listed below

• Toe Web Infection
• Moccasin Web Infection
• Vesicular Web Infection

Other causes include

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Thyroid Disease
• Diabetes
• Age
• Shoes that do not fit properly
• Climate-related dry skin
• Vitamin deficiency, such as minerals or zinc
• Standing for excessive periods of time
• Heels that drag or hang over the side of sandals

Risk Factors

In general, cracked heels do not pose any risk factors as long as an fungal infection has not developed. Untreated cracked or dry heels may lead to a variety of problems.

Some of these problems may include the following

• Development of a chronic fungal disease that is difficult to treat
• Deep wounds may develop and bleed
• Fungus may spread to undesirable places on the body, such as groin area and the lower extremities
• Infection may set into the open wounds
• May be an indicator for a low immune system
• Infections such as diabetes may increase the risk for cracked heels
• Walking barefoot, sharing towels, and showering in public places with no protection on the feet may increase the risk for contracting the fungus

Seniors and people who stand on their feet frequently are most at risk for cracked heels. The condition may affect both the heels or one heel depending upon the origin of the stressor. Those who frequently shower in public places or walk barefoot are at risk for Athlete’s Foot.

Prevention Tips

Athlete’s Foot is spread from person to person. Thus, the disease is considered communicable. Since the disease is caused by the parasitic fungus, Trichophyton, individuals should take extra precautions to avoid the disease. Because the disease is a fungus it can spread easily from the feet to other areas of the body. Good hygiene is always the first step of prevention.

To avoid contracting Athlete’s Foot or developing dry, cracked heels, individuals must take the following precautions

• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
• Avoid taking showers in public areas without proper foot protection, such as shower shoes or flip flops
• Do not share towels with other individuals
• Do not share shoes with other individuals
• Moisturize the feet with a heavy cream daily
• Remove dead skin with an abrasive, such as a pumice stone, foot scrub, or loofah
• If you contract a fungal disease, use the medication or antibiotic for the prescribed period of time
• If the fungus is not cured after the medication, seek the help of a physician
• Wear shower shoes

To prevent fungal spread in the home, individuals should take the following precautions

• Spray the tub and bathrooms with disinfectants each use to avoid the spread of the fungus.
• Launder towels, sheets, socks, underwear and bed clothes in hot water to kill the fungus.
• Change towels and bedsheets at least once per week
• Do not share towels with other household members
• Use a separate towel when drying areas that are infected
• Wash feet between toes with soap and water
• Dry feet thoroughly after showering
• Treat feet and shoes with over the counter drugs

Other prevention tips

• Limit the amount of sweat on the feet
• Wear well ventilated shoes
• Keep feet dry
• Wear lightweight cotton socks to reduce sweat, moisture wicking polyester socks with anti-microbial properties are the best
• Wash socks in hot water
• Wear a different pair of shoes everyday to keep feet dry
• Replace sole inserts in sneakers frequently
• Replace old sneakers and exercise shoes
• Wash with a soap that contains an antimicrobial and antifungal agent
• Regularly soak feet in vinegar and water
• Change socks frequently
• Use foot powders and antiperspirants

In general, people who have a genetic predisposition to dry, cracked feet should exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin and calluses. Use creams with alpha or beta hydroxy acids. Alternatively, urea also helps to remove dead skin. Creams with dimethicone penetrate the epidermis. This provides a protective layer to the skin which seals in the moisture.

Smelly feet often accompany dry, cracked feet. Smelly feet are not attractive. There are over 250,000 sweat glands in each foot that contribute to sweat and smelly feet. According to physician, Issac Tabari, smell is caused by “bacterial decomposition of excessive perspiration.” Companies have developed sprays and foot pads to combat sweating and odor.

Some of the popular drugs that assist with this common problem are as follows

• Dimethicone : Decreases moisture, sweat and therefore, fights Athlete’s Foot
• Triclosan: Eliminates odor causing bacteria through an antibacterial agent
• Chlorhexidine digluconate: Eliminates odor causing germs through an antibacterial agent
• Grillocin: Neutralizes foot odor
• Menthol: Masks odor through a cooling agent

Test and Diagnosis considerations

Athlete’s Foot can be diagnosed by a physician, dermatologist, pharmacist, or general practitioner. During diagnosis, the physician will physically inspect the skin to determine the cause of the cracked, dry skin. If the physician suspects the condition may be eczema or psoriasis, the physician may inspect the skin under a microscope with a potassium hydroxide mixture.

This test is often referred to as the KOH test. The physician will scrape the affected areas of the skin and inspect them under the microscope. The test usually yields an excellent positive predictive value. A biopsy may also be taken in order to evaluate for histological examination.

Treatment Options

Herbal and Home Remedies

• Apply cracked creams on your heels and drink a plethora of water.
• Eat foods rich in Vitamin E: Cereals, green vegetables, nuts, wheat germ, and nuts
• Eat food with Calcium and Iron: Yogurt, ice cream, meat, chicken and fish
• Eat foods rich in Zinc: Oysters, chicken, kidney beans, yogurt, crab
• Eat food rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish, flaxseed oils

Tea tree oil may provide relief from itching. This is primarily due to its relation in the histamine response.

However, the treatment of Athlete’s Foot with tea tree oil has not been proven to entirely relieve symptoms. Further studies are being conducted to determine the evidence conclusively.

Onion extract has been proven to be effective in conditions against the Trichophyton fungus. A 3 percent solution is the recommended concentration of the onion extract. Ajoene is a compound found in garlic. The popular compound is often used to treat Athlete’s Foot. Boric acid is often applied in socks to prevent Athlete’s Foot. The treatment is effective for recurring infections.

Additional Treatment Options

Putting baking soda on the feet or sprinkling baking soda in the shoes changes the pH and alleviates symptoms associated with dry, cracked heels. Baking soda also eliminates odor. Epson salts will also soothe the feet if several tablespoons are applied to warm water. The salt will also loosen the dead skin and aid in the removal of dead skin.

Ionic foot spa is purported to remove toxins from the body. This is accomplished through electrolysis that removes toxins from the body by opening pores. The toxins are released into the water. Apply a banana to the dry or cracked area of the heel. Leave the substance on for 10 minutes and rinse. Soak feet in lemon juice weekly for 10 minutes until the feet are smooth.

Each day soak the feet in warm and soapy water. Then apply Vaseline and the juice of a lemon. Allow the mixture to absorb overnight while wearing socks. Apply glycerin and rose water daily.

Pharmaceutical

Severe fungal infections may require that individuals take oral anti-fungal medication in order to alleviate or cure the symptoms. The most common ingredients in prescription anti-fungal drugs include ketaconazole, itraconazole, naftifine, and nystatin.

Topical ointments may come in the form of a spray, powder, cream or gel. Most of the over-the-counter drugs contain miconazole nitrate in a 2 percent concentration and tolnaftate in a 1 percent concentration. Terbinafine is also a common over-the-counter drug. Zinc oxide based diaper rash ointment may also alleviate the symptoms. Talcum powder may also absorb moisture to fight infection.

Those who desire a topical treatment should not simply select an anti-itch ointment. These ointments may promote moisture and exacerbate the condition. Experts recommend the use of gels instead of creams for application of topical treatments. Lamisil and naftin both are available in a gel that penetrates the skin more rapidly than creams.

Resources

EverydayHealth.Com

Diabetes.WebMd.Com

MedicineNet.Com

Burns

Burn injuries are one of the most common reasons for visits to the doctor or emergency room each year. With so many ways to burn yourself, it’s not uncommon for someone to suffer minor or even serious burns while at work, home, or even on vacation.

There are many home remedies and treatments for burns available, some of which work and some of which do not.

See below for tips on curing burn injuries and preventing them from happening in the future.

Alternative Names

There are not that many different terms for a burn in the English language, although there are a variety of different types of burns.

They are known as “degrees” and include

First Degree Burns

These are superficial burns, only affecting the top layer of skin. These burns tend to scar less and hurt to a lesser degree than other burns.

Second Degree Burns

These burns are slightly more severe and affect the dermis, the second layer of skin. As the dermis heals from this type of burn, blisters and fluid buildup is likely to occur, both of which are accompanied by a fair amount of discomfort.

Third Degree Burns

The most severe type of burn, third degree burns penetrate both the epidermis and the dermis and are typically very painful. This type of burn can lead to nerve damage or death, and leaves the burn victim susceptible to infection.

Symptoms

Different levels of burns cause different symptoms, and it is often difficult to tell the severity of a burn from the symptoms alone. These symptoms show signs of physical distress and if shown, mean the injury victim should seek medical attention.

Minor Burn Symptoms

Local burn pain

This can range from a tingling to a burning sensation, and usually affects only the burned area of the skin. If the pain extends outward from the burn, it may be an indicator of a more serious injury.

Redness

The most common and immediate symptom of a minor burn, redness of the affected area indicates that the skin has been damaged.

Skin blistering

As discussed above, the skin may blister in the event of a second degree burn. This blister will eventually fill with fluid, which prevents it from worsening and lessens the sensitivity of the affected area.

Skin peeling

Often coming only after the skin blisters, peeling is a common symptom of a burn. The skin that is burned often dies, and the body then sloughs it off in a natural way.

Severe Burn Symptoms

Burn Pain – Different from local burn pain, this pain is far more intolerable and often affects a larger area than just the burn. For example, if the hand is seriously burned, pain may be felt throughout the entire lower arm.

Open Wounds

This can be the case if the burn is severe enough to go through the dermis and epidermis in a way that removes them from the body. This is a dangerous symptom as it leaves the burn and body open to infection.

Skin Loss

Similar to an open wound, very severe burns can result in loss of the skin in the affected area. This type of burn should be treated by a doctor as immediately as possible.

Lasting Effects of Burns

Depending on the severity of a burn, effects can last a lifetime if not treated properly. Some of the more adverse affects a burn can cause are permanent scarring, blistering, wound infections, shock, and even death. If any of the more serious symptoms of a burn are seen, visit a doctor immediately.

Causes

Many objects that people encounter on an everyday basis can lead to burned skin. There are different types of causes, none of which are entirely preventable.

Direct Heat

This cause of burns is the most common, and can come in the form of a hot stove or curling iron. If you touch your skin to the surface of something with an outside temperature of over 120 degrees, odds are that you will suffer some burn symptoms. Some common causes of burns to be cautious of include the following:

Kitchen products

• ovens
• stoves
• hot plates
• steam burns
• grills

Car parts

• exhaust pipe
• gasoline opening
• engine casing

Liquids

• hot coffee
• soup
• pizza
• any other hot food or liquid product

Topical Burns

These can be caused from the application of a topical treatment that causes the skin to react in a negative way, such as by reddening or blistering. Some common offenders in this category include peroxide products such as hair dye, retinol products meant for skincare, and certain acetone based products such as nail polish remover.

The Sun

The most common way to burn your skin is through exposure to the sun. Well documented is the case against repeated and unprotected exposure to sun rays as it can permanently damage the skin. Sunburns can lead to redness, great pain, blistering, peeling, and even the development of melanoma cancer in the most severe cases.

Prevention Tips

There are many ways to protect yourself and your children from obtaining a burn. Take measures to set your home up in a way that discourages burns: keep potholders near the stove, store fire extinguishers in the kitchen, and cover all open air vents with protective shields.

When out in public, be vigilant and aware of what dangers you face in terms of open flame or exposed car parts that may cause direct skin burns. Workplace burns are some of the most common, so if you work at a facility that causes burn risk, be sure to wear protective clothing like gloves and rubber soled shoes.

Sunburns are even easier to prevent as they are very predictable. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on a daily basis as even 20 minutes of continuous sun exposure can cause a sunburn. There are also products available on the market that shield the skin from the sun such as wide brimmed hats and clothing with SPF made right into them. Be sure to stay out of the sun between noon and four P.M. and stay shaded if this is not possible.

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

Burns are notoriously difficult to categorize and also to determine the origin of. It is impossible to tell a heat burn from a steam burn, as hard as your doctor may try. The good news is that the symptoms of a burn are unmistakable, so treatment options may be planned accordingly once a burn injury has been identified.

Treatment Options

Herbal and At Home Remedies: At home remedies are the most commonly employed for the treatment and healing of burns as most are not severe enough to warrant a trip to the doctor.

Some of the ways people have found success in treating burns include the following

Soak the burn in water

In shorts bouts, about 15 minutes at a time, water can help soothe the pain and remove bacteria from a new burn.

Apply a topical ointment

These antibiotic ointments, such as Neosporin, help prevent infection and often release a cooling sensation onto the affected area.

Over the counter medicines

Pills are only necessary if the pain of a burn in severe, but some find medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen help relieve the pain, swelling, and redness that accompany a minor burn.

Apply aloe

Lotion with aloe helps ease the pain of a burn, and also encourages healing of the skin. This is particularly helpful in cases of sunburn.

Chamomile

Some find that bathing in a chamomile solution or rubbing calamine lotion on a burn lessens their pain and helps the wound heal faster.

Things NOT to do to your burn at Home: Some attempts at treatment can actually do more harm than good, so be sure not to do any of the following lest you make your injury worse.

Put ice on the burn

The cold temperatures of ice can kill any lingering living skin cells. There have been known cases of people contracting frostbite from ice left too long on a burn area where they no longer have feeling.

Wrap the burn tightly

While it is important to prevent the burn from getting infected, wrapping it too tightly can cause a lack of air flow which actually breeds bacteria growth. You want to allow your burn to “breathe” and have a chance to leak fluid and develop blisters if necessary as these are part of the healing process.

Put butter on the burn

An old wives tale, some believe rubbing butter on a burn will relieve their pain and stop it from blistering. In fact, the grease from the butter may clog the skin pores that are attempting to heal from the injury, doing more damage to the surrounding tissue.

Pharmaceutical Remedies

There are relatively few options in terms of medications that treat burns as they are primarily a topical skin condition. Medicine that may be taken is more for the affect of lessening pain as opposed to healing a burn. One of the most popular pharmaceutical options for burns is Mederma for scars or Burn-X, both of which encourage healing and decrease the likelihood of developing a scar.

Internal medications taken for burns that are prescribed by a doctor are mostly used to combat infection rather than heal the burn itself. If your burn is severe enough that you believe you need medication, seek a doctor’s assistance immediately.

Surgical Remedies

Performed only by a licensed Dermatologist, there are few skin surgeries available for minor burn victims. The options include:

Laser Therapy

This treatment is used to lighten scars and prevent the development of calloused skin from a burn. Primarily for aesthetic affect, this option is expensive and can be very painful.

Skin Removal

Only appropriate in cases of bad blisters or a harsh sunburn, your dermatologist may choose to remove the skin that has been affected by the burn. Again, this option is more for aesthetic affect than comfort and may include your doctor using instruments to remove dead or peeling skin from around your burn.

For severe burn victims, there are also few options, most of which are designed to lessen the likelihood of infection or minimize visual impact of a burn. These operations are only performed at a hospital and may be used for life-saving in the worst of cases:

Closing a wound

If the burn is so severe that the skin has come open and the wound is raw, such as in the case of a direct heat contact burn, a doctor may need to remove the infected skin area and/or close up the wound using stitches or staples to prevent it from becoming even more infected. This is a costly procedure and is most often performed in cases where a patient’s life is in danger.

Skin graft

Done most often for aesthetic affect or to close up an open sore, skin grafts are extremely expensive and known to be some of the most painful surgeries available. The procedure is done as a doctor removes skin from somewhere else on the burn victim’s body, like the back or legs, then place the healthy skin on top of the area that way burned. In this way, both areas eventually heal over with skin, but scarring can be extreme and recuperation time is lengthy.

Burns are a very painful but very preventable medical occurrence. Our skin is designed to protect the insides of our bodies, but is therefore more vulnerable to injury itself. Take care to avoid situations where you may come into direct contact with flame or heat, and be sure to protect yourself daily from sun exposure.

While there are treatments available for burns, there are no cures, so often burn victims find themselves waiting patiently for their injuries to heal. If your burn is severe enough to cause blood loss, confusion, or fluid retention, be sure to see a doctor immediately. All physicians, EMTs, and emergency room personnel are highly trained to deal with burns of varying degrees.

Resources

Firstaid.WebMd.Com

EmedicineHealth.Com

EverydayHealth.Com