Getting a reference for a dermatology is the best avenue to take. Ask the office if they will accept your insurance and how quickly you can get in for an appointment. You could also ask if they would furnish you with references and if they have evening and weekend hours. Make sure the doctor specializes in your particular problem and ask how many times he or she has worked on this issue.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection under the skin that begins as a tender area that is red and swollen and can develop into a fever with swollen lymph glands. It affects the dermis and subcutaneous tissues and occurs mostly in the legs. Derivatives of penicillin or other antibiotics are used to treat it.

Tinea known as fungal infections is spread by direct contact and is most commonly transmitted through bare feet. Commonly called Athlete’s foot health clubs and public swimming pools are a common place to transmit this disorder. Symptoms are the skin will look white and soft and peel especially between the toes. Treatment can be found in topical creams over the counter or by prescription if needed for faster relief. In the worst cases oral medications are administered. Wearing sandals in public places with damp areas as well as keeping the skin dry are good preventative measures.

Moles are usually brown or black and can appear anywhere on the body; in groups or alone. They are cells that cluster and are called melanocytes and they make the pigment that gives skin its color. Most moles are benign, however if they appear to have changed in shape or color a visit to the dermatologist is in order. They can tell if it needs to be removed and biopsied.

Flat warts tend to grow in large numbers and are smaller and smoother than other types of warts. They can occur anywhere and are most common on the face in children and in beards in men. Woman tend to find them on their legs possibly from the irritation of shaving. Often too numerous to treat with conventional methods, these warts tend to be treated with surface peeling treatments.

Warts are non-cancerous growths caused by virus’, they reside on the top layer of the skin and are called human papillomavirus or HVP. They can be skin-colored or dark, feel rough or smooth depending on where they are located. Common warts usually grow on fingers, around nails and the back of hands usually where the skin has been split. They can disappear on their own but if they are painful or spreading salicylic acid gel can be applied at home or the doctor can administer a stronger topical medication. Both methods dry out the wart and allow removal.

Psoriasis is a skin disorder which exhibits red, thickened areas with silvery scales. They most often appear on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back. Severity differs and in the worst cases a doctor should get involved. It is not contagious but can be hereditary. The cause is unknown but there has been research into the function of the white blood cells that trigger inflammation. The most common is called plaque psoriasis and starts with little red bumps that become larger and scales form. It is treated with moisturizing cream and special diet which control the inflammation and spreading. Oral medication or light therapy is also used.

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