Electron micrograph (SEM) of a bedbug (Cimex lectularius).Source: CDC / Janice Haney Carr What should you know about bedbugs? Bedbugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, oval insects that feed by sucking blood from humans or other warm-blooded animals. The effect of bedbugs on human health and reports of bedbug infestations of certain hotels has received media...
What is folliculitis? Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles. The best treatment for folliculitis includes washing the area and applying aloe vera gel, diluted hydrogen peroxide or anti-itch agents. Folliculitis is an inflammation of hair follicles: the tiny pouches in your skin from which hairs grow. It is a very common skin condition, and...
What is cystic acne? Depending on the treatment, cystic acne can last for eight to twelve weeks. When a pore gets clogged from skin cells, oil, and bacteria, it can become infected, leaving a red and swollen bump. Cystic acne occurs when this infection goes deep into the skin, creating a bump that can be...
Rosacea commonly affects the central third of the face, especially the nose, and its intensity varies over time.Source: Getty Images Rosacea facts Rosacea is a common, chronic, incurable, adult acne-like skin condition that is easily controllable and medically manageable. Rosacea commonly affects the central third of the face, especially the nose, and its intensity varies...
What is nodular acne? Nodular acne is one of the most difficult forms of acne to treat, but there are a few common courses that will likely be recommended by a dermatologist. Nodular acne is a severe form of acne typically found on the face, chest, and back. It is characterized by deep under-the-skin inflammatory...
What is rosacea? Foods that are good for rosacea include fish high in omega-3, certain nuts and seeds, peanut butter, eggs, and olive oil. Rosacea, a skin condition that causes redness of the skin similar to blushing, is common in many adults. While there is no one specific rosacea diet, some food may help combat...
Common rashes include COVID-19 rash, eczema, poison ivy, hives, and athlete’s foot.Source: Getty Images Skin rash facts Rash is not a specific diagnosis. Instead, it refers to any sort of inflammation and/or discoloration that distorts the skin's normal appearance. Common rashes include COVID-19 rash, eczema, poison ivy, hives, and athlete's foot. Infections that cause rashes...
An itch can be caused by something as simple as dry itchy skin or a serious medical condition.Source: iStock What facts should I know about itching? The medical term for itching is pruritus. Bacterial and fungal infections, bites and stings, infestations, chronic diseases, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, allergic reactions, sun exposure, and dry skin, and other...
What are chickenpox and shingles? The difference between chickenpox and shingles is that the first time you get infected with the varicella virus, you get chickenpox. Shingles is a condition you can develop if you've already had chickenpox. Chickenpox and shingles are two infectious diseases that are often confused with one another. That’s because they’re...
What is shingles? Shingles blisters usually scab over in seven to 10 days, at which point they are no longer contagious. If you do get shingles, there are options for medications as well as at-home care to help address symptoms. Shingles is an itchy, painful rash that usually occurs on one side of your body...