When Do Minor Skin Problems Become Concerning?

Many things can affect the skin, yet not all of them are dangerous or life-threatening. Our skin is the largest organ that’s part of our bodies, so it is extremely important that we take care of it. But that doesn’t mean that our skin is going to be perfect at all times.

Types of Skin Conditions

There are a variety of disorders that can affect the skin, ranging from minor to major, and temporary to permanent. Some result from outside factors, such as trauma. Others are considered to be autoimmune skin disorders or skin problems that result from autoimmune diseases, such as lupus.

Minor Conditions

Minor skin conditions typically do not require a doctor’s attention, nor do they need to be treated with prescription medications. They can either be treated by the individual or they heal all on their own.

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Contact Dermatitis or Rashes

Contact dermatitis is a reaction to anything that is considered to be an irritant to the skin. 

Some causes affect the majority of people the same way (like poison ivy, poison oak, etc.), and other causes can be specific to certain individuals (adverse reactions to skincare products or laundry detergents). Contact dermatitis is a temporary skin condition.

Cuts & Bruises

Cuts are breaks in the skin, and they aren’t always serious. Bleeding can occur, but not always. Minor cuts do not require professional medical treatment, as they often heal on their own.

Bruises happen when the skin gets bumped, causing the small veins under the skin to break. The bleeding underneath the skin collects and causes the skin to darken to a blue or black color. Minor bruises are temporary and tend to heal on their own.

Major Conditions

Major conditions cause more problems or discomfort for an individual. They are sometimes chronic, needing medical treatment. While this list of major conditions is not life-threatening, it can cause severe discomfort to its victims.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic condition in which puss-filled bumps, usually small and red, cover the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Currently, the cause is unknown, and there is no cure. While the condition itself does not cause any other health problems, the skin becomes very sensitive, causing discomfort.

Unlike rosacea, psoriasis can cause other health issues, such as joint swelling. There are many types, but all can be treated with some type of medication.

When Minor Becomes Major

If not treated correctly or ignored, some minor skin conditions can become more serious. Others can come out of seemingly nowhere.

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Untreated Cuts

Minor cuts and scrapes are no cause for concern, but cuts that are a little deeper can lead to infection if not treated properly. Infected cuts can be life-threatening, as the infection can enter the bloodstream.

Bed Sores

While bedsores don’t seem to result from any immediate trauma to the skin, they can occur when pressure is exerted on the skin for a lengthy amount of time of non-movement.

This inhibits blood flow to the tissues, causing the skin to disintegrate and therefore, leading to serious conditions such as sepsis or gangrene. Bedsores are most commonly found in nursing homes, where patients (unable to move) are likely to be in one spot for an extended period of time. This is caused by the negligence of a nursing home.

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Cancerous Moles

Cancerous moles are usually irregular in shape, larger than six millimeters, different colors, and change in size. Healthy moles rarely turn into cancerous moles, but other factors can cause skin cancer.

Conclusion

Minor conditions can become really serious, really fast. While not all skin conditions are life-threatening, it’s important to keep an eye out. Make note of any unusual changes on your skin and be sure to consult your doctor.

Who Is The Author?

Umair Asif