Just like your brain, stomach and heart, your skin is also a valuable organ. As a matter of fact, it is the largest organ in the body. However, it is very easy for us to take our skin for granted. Unless there is a problem, you might not give much attention to your skin, but you have to understand that the skin has a crucial task to do.
Our skin can multitask, as it has many essential functions and all of which are primarily designed to help keep the body working properly. If you will not pay attention to the health of your skin, it will not work effectively as it should.
The skin is like a bodyguard, as it offers a great level of protection. One of the most valuable jobs of the skin is to serve as a barrier to different harmful environmental aggressors such as UV radiation, bacteria and germs. The acid mantle of the skin is essential to prevent any bacteria from attacking the skin that could cause infection. The skin gives the body a complete layer of protection so that the other organs of the body will effectively work.
However, just like the other organs in the body, anyone can be at risk of skin diseases that can be caused by many different factors. Serious skin issues should never be taken lightly, as skin disorders can be life threatening. Many skin issues are temporary and they can be treated with simple medications, but it is always best to seek professional assistance to ensure that your skin is always at its best condition. 5
As a protective outer shell of the body, the skin is exposed to many different chemicals and environmental factors that could damage it or reduce its overall function. Many harmful elements, including infections, scrapes, sunlight, chemicals and cuts keep this seemingly delicate organ under assault.
We are not saying that a flawless exterior cannot be achieved, but of course, it takes effort. The key to healthy and glowing skin is in your hands. It also pays to understand skin care basics to ensure that your skin will stay in good shape.
Checking Your Skin
When asked to name the major organs in the body, the skin, which is the body’s largest organ, is something that might not immediately come to your mind. The skin or the integumentary system works to protect the body from any infection. Moreover, it regulates temperature, excretes wastes and effectively prevents dehydration through controlling the perspiration level in the body. The skin also houses sensory receptors that are essential in detecting pressure, sensation and pain.
The skin is also the initial defense of the body against viruses, bacteria and some other microbes. The hair and skin provide great protection from any harmful UV radiation.
Of course, there are also many different skin diseases that anyone may suffer from due to different elements and factors. Some skin diseases are innocuous. Such skin issues may be uncomfortable or annoying, but they are basically easily treated. Nevertheless, there are also some skin conditions that are serious, dangerous and even life threatening.
To maintain healthy skin, you need to always keep yourself informed. Discover the skin disease basics to find the right answers or solutions to the common skin diseases that you or your love one might be suffering from. 7
Important Facts About Skin Diseases
The skin is always busy protecting your body from harmful chemicals, bacteria and some other damaging invaders. It is important to understand the risk factors and skin diseases that you may acquire to ensure that your skin will work at its best and serve its main function.
Scaly skin, oozing sores and itchy rash – these are only a few of the many skin disease symptoms that you may experience. There are practically over three thousand kinds of disorders and skin diseases. Some are easily treated and temporary, while others can actually persist lifelong and can even cause disability, emotional distress and chronic symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Skin Diseases
Thousand of skin diseases and skin issues vary in their symptoms and signs. Common symptoms and signs may include:
§ Boils
§ Blisters
§ Bruises
§ Blotchy rash
§ Burning
§ Bumps without itching or pain
§ Dry skin
§ Butterfly rash
§ Itchy rash
§ Itching
§ Flesh-colored growths
§ Painful bumps
§ Scaly dry or oily rash
§ Pus-filled lesions
§ Peeling skin
§ Yellowish skin
§ White, scaly rash and others
Common Causes of Skin Diseases
Skin diseases have different causes. Some of the symptoms are because of non-dermatologic issues, while others include:
Genetics
Ingested allergens or contact with the skin
Infection caused by parasites, viruses, fungi and bacteria
Illnesses or diseases that affect other body parts
External elements such as insect bites, animal dander and the damaging effects of the sun
Dysfunction or weakness of the immune system
There are a lot of different types of skin diseases. Pregnant women, children, elderly individuals, infants and those who are suffering from certain medical conditions experience certain skin issues more than others. Various medical conditions have also been associated with skin issues.
Some diseases in other parts of the body may also cause skin symptoms such as autoimmune disease, diabetes, kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, thyroid disease, sex hormone imbalance and liver disease.
It is important to note that the skin is very susceptible to both external and internal factors. Stress and diet are two internal factors that may affect the health of the skin.
The sun and other external factors have great impacts to the skin. The sun can help the skin produce Vitamin D, but too much sun exposure can lead to sunburn, wrinkles and worse, skin cancer.
Many people will develop some type of skin issue at one point in their lives. Whether they suffer from skin bumps, skin rags, skin fungus, itchy skin or a rash, visiting a dermatologist is the best person to see to obtain the best dermatological treatments available.