Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

4 Skin Infections for a Dermatologist

Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections can all affect the health and appearance of your skin, and some skin infections can even cause pain or blister. Medication and treatment can often help to clear common skin infections, and your dermatologist will be able to recommend the right course of treatment for you. Learn more about common skin infections and their treatments below, and consult with your dermatologist for more information.

1. Nail Fungus: Fungal infections commonly develop on the toenails and are characterized by the yellowing of the nail, separation of the nails from the skin, and breaking or cracking of the nails. These kinds of infections can usually be treated by oral medications that eliminate the infection and allow the nails to resume healthy growth.
2. Warts: While they are usually not harmful, warts can negatively impact your confidence. Warts can develop anywhere on the body but are most common on the hands and feet. Cyrotherapy (freezing) and electrocautery (burning) are two methods of wart removal, but depending on the size and severity of the infection, your dermatologist may prescribe a topical medication.
3. Shingles: Shingles is a viral infection related to the chicken pox that may be brought on by poor diet, stress, or alcohol use. Patients with shingles will experience an outbreak of painful blisters around one half of the body. While the rash will usually clear up after a couple of weeks, it can leave behind lingering pain on the affected areas. The earlier symptoms are detected and treated, the more likely the treatment will help to reduce pain and to clear the skin.
4. Cold Sores: Cold sores are caused by the Herpes simplex virus that has gone into a dormant phase after the initial outbreak. The blisters will recur in the same area and remain on the skin for about one week. Medication can help eliminate outbreaks more quickly and reduce how frequently they occur.

For more information about skin infections, please contact the dermatologists at Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. As part of the largest dermatology practice in America, our doctors can assist you with all of your cosmetic or clinical skincare needs. Immediate appointments are available at one of our Tampa offices. To locate an office or doctor near you, please visit Advanced Dermatology online or call us today at (866) 400-3376.

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