Not every skin infection is eczema! Here are 5 other conditions – Health shots

Make sure you first understand your condition properly. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

The Indian monsoon may mark the start of something special, but the rain also bring a slew of health problems, particularly for the skin. The likelihood of skin infections during monsoon increases because of the high humidity and bacterial development.

But infections during the monsoon are frequently linked with eczema. Similar symptoms can be caused by a variety of skin disorders, so its crucial to thoroughly examine them for the right treatment.

To find out how to differentiate between eczema and other skin infections that are prevalent during the monsoon season, Health Shots got in touch with Dr B L Jangid, Dermatologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon, SkinQure Clinic, Saket, New Delhi.

Skin diseases are more common during the monsoon as the level of humidity rises. This makes the skin more prone to allergies, infections, and rashes. From eczema to other itchy skin allergies, the risk of skin diseases and other infections rises considerably during this season.

When a bacteria, fungus, or virus penetrates your skin, it can result in skin infections. But all these conditions have different symptoms that only a medical practitioner can diagnose and treat.

1. Scabies: A small, burrowing mite-related skin disease that is contagious and extremely irritating. In a family, school, or nursing home, scabies can spread swiftly through close physical contact.

2. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a skin condition that typically affects the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. It causes a rash with itchy, scaly spots. Psoriasis is a frequent, chronic condition that has no cure.

3. Hives: Itchy welts are caused by hives, also known as urticaria, which can be brought on by certain foods, drugs, or environmental factors. Itchy, raised, red, or skin-colored welts on the skins surface are some of the symptoms.

4. Ringworm: A scalp or skin fungal infection that is extremely infectious. Through contacting an infected animal or object or by skin-to-skin contact, ringworm can be transmitted. Usually scaly, it may also be red and irritating.

5. Allergies: When the weather changes, some people become allergic to it. They can develop symptoms such as sneezing, itching, cough, reddish skin, or swelling.

There are many skin conditions that are brought on by the monsoon. The infections and eczema mentioned above are part of it. But eczema is a completely different condition. Heres everything about it.

Dr Jangid says, A skin infection can look a lot like eczema. Eczema is a non-contagious but chronic skin condition that is likely caused by both genetic and environmental factors like humidity and changing temperatures. It mostly impacts babies and children, but can also affect adults.

Flexural eczema is the most common type of eczema that is seen in children, appearing in skin folds. Eczema can be dry or wet. Initially, the skin will become too dry, followed by rashes, which are common symptoms of dry eczema, and over time, the cracks in the skin can develop, leading to puffy, red, and inflamed skin with blister formations that ooze fluid, resulting in wet eczema. In adults, there are different factors that lead to eczema. Usually, at the age of 50-60 years, dry skin issues start arising, so dry eczema can be seen on their bodies, which can eventually lead to wet eczema, says Dr Jangid.

Eczema is incurable, but its symptoms can be treated post analyzing the skins condition.

Remember, different types of infections have different symptoms. Only a doctor can explain after physically examining whether its a bacterial, virus, or fungal infection. And in the case of eczema or skin infections, it is advisable to meet a certified dermatologist who can provide medication, which could be a combination of topical creams, medications, or therapies after analyzing your skin condition.

Lastly, keep your skin moisturized, use powder in flexural areas to avoid dampness, and take an appropriate diet so that you have good immunity.

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Not every skin infection is eczema! Here are 5 other conditions - Health shots