What your dermatologists in Encinitas want you to know

If you’ve had a skin infection, you know how difficult it was to get rid of. Skin infections like chicken pox, shingles and ringworm are best treated by your dermatologist. Dr. David Thomas and Dr. Margaret Hobson Dupree at North County Dermatology Center in Encinitas, CA want to share their knowledge about a few common skin infections and their treatment.

Chickenpox is most common in children, and can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by a virus and can be spread easily by coughing, sharing food, or by touching the infected area. Chicken pox forms as small red blisters which can itch. It’s important not to scratch or pick at the blisters because they can break open and spread the virus. The blisters should crust over in about 10 days. Soaking in a cool bath can be helpful.

Shingles is caused by a variant of the virus that causes chickenpox. It can form on one side of your body and wrap around from your spine to your chest. It can also appear on your forehead, nose and neck. Shingles is very painful and may itch. The blisters that form will break open and then form a crust as they heal. Shingles can cause systemic symptoms including fever and a headache. If you think you may have shingles, it’s important to visit your dermatologist who can prescribe antiviral and pain medications to reduce and relieve symptoms. There is also a vaccination to prevent shingles.

Ringworm is another common skin infection, occurring most frequently in children. It’s caused by a fungus, so it thrives in moist, warm places on the body including the scalp, groin, and feet. Ringworm appears as ring-shaped, scaly patches on your skin that can blister and eventually ooze liquid. It can be spread by sharing linens, clothing or personal products, or coming into contact with infected animals. Over-the-counter anti-fungal products and antibiotics can be helpful.

These are just a few of the skin infections your dermatologist can treat. For a complete list of skin infections and their treatments, please visit the skin infections page on the North County Dermatology Center website at http://www.northcountyderm.com/library/4251/SkinInfections.html

You don’t have to suffer the uncomfortable, unsightly effects of skin infections when help is just a phone call away. Get some relief by calling Dr. Thomas and Dr. Hobson Dupree at North County Dermatology Center in Encinitas, CA today!