3 Common Types of Skin Infections

Last updated 8 months ago

Because your skin serves as a barrier between the environment and the rest of your body, it is subjected to a multitude of germs, bacteria and infections. When this exposure leads to infection, your skin can often break out in bumps and rashes that are not only unattractive but also painful. Ask your dermatologist about the most common types of skin infections and what can be done to treat them quickly and effectively.

Warts: Warts are non-cancerous growths that are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus enters your skin through a cut or scrape and commonly affects those with weakened immune systems or individuals who bite or pick at their nails. Warts are contagious and can be spread through direct contact or by touching items that have come into contact with the wart, like a piece of clothing or bath towel. Children often develop warts, but many of these will resolve on their own.
Cold Sores: Cold sores, or fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled sores that usually develop on the lips, mouth, or nose. These sores are caused by an infection of the herpes simplex virus that goes into a dormant state after the initial infection. Individuals who have been infected with the herpes simplex virus may have periodic breakouts that typically last for a week at a time.
Shingles: Caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox, shingles is a painful infection whose symptoms include fever, headache, chills, and upset stomach. Like the herpes simplex virus, the varicella zoster virus remains dormant in the body after the initial infection and can become reactive later in life when it manifests as shingles.

If you are looking for a dermatologist in the Tampa area, contact Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. 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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