Top 5 Most Common Skin Problems in Children

People of all ages have skin problems and skin diseases but there are some skin problems that typically strike children more often than adults. However, skin diseases do not differentiate between age groups so it is possible that people of any ages can be affected by the skin problems highlighted here.

Here you will find the 5 most common skin problems found in children, you can find a description of each skin problem, how to identify the skin problem and how to prevent it.

Skin Problem in Children #1: Warts
Warts tend to develop on the hands and fingers of kids although they can show up on many other parts of the body. Warts are white, dry looking protruding bumps that can develop individually or can be in clusters of three or four. Warts are caused by an individual coming in contact with the human papillomavirus and warts are very contagious. Covering warts completely with band aids or bandages is a good idea and keeping the affected area dry and clean is also helpful. Warts in children tend to heal in time but if the warts are causing discomfort or inconvenience to the child, then seeing a doctor for possible treatment such as medication, freezing or laser may be an option.

Skin Problem in Children #2: Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a herpes type virus and can develop all over a child's body and is a very common skin problem for children. Chickenpox tend to look like red, sore blisters or red spots. Chickenpox also can be very itchy which is many times the biggest problem for children, over the counter medication to relieve itchiness can be purchased at the local drug store or if this skin problem seems too much to handle at home then seeing a medical professional for advice is the best solution. Lots of rest is also recommended when chickenpox develops. There is a chickenpox vaccine available but discussing the risks and positives of the vaccine with your doctor is a wise choice.

Skin Problem in Children #3: Lice
Lice are very small insects that live can live on human blood. Lice can be found on people of all ages but tend to be found on children typically on the back of the neck and behind the ears. Lice are really hard to see but by using a small black comb and combing through the hair at the back of the neck will usually prove to present small white eggs on the comb. Children will tend to itch the backs of their heads when lice are present, lice can easily be passed from one child to another especially when in a school setting and close contact is imminent. Head lice can be eliminated by purchasing an over the counter head lice removal kit, also all washing and disinfecting all clothing, bedding and anything else that came in possible contact with the lice.

Skin Problem in Children #4: Impetigo
Impetigo is a infection that is typically started when bacteria enters into some part of the body where there is a scratch or cut. Impetigo often develops around the nose and mouth of children but can develop any where on the body. This skin problem can look like a red or yellow type color, often with sores and/or blisters that are oozing. Contacting a medical professional is very important as an antibiotic is often prescribed to cure the skin infection.

Skin Problem in Children #5: Acne
Children in the teen age years tend to develop acne more often than adults do although adults can also develop acne even late in life. Acne is caused by the pores in the skin getting clogged up with dead skin cells and oil. Acne can appear to be red patches that include: white heads, black heads and pimples, there is also the possibility of lesions when severe acne occurs. Trying to cure and prevent acne is not easy but by keeping the affected areas really clean by washing thoroughly and purchasing one of the many over the counter medications for acne may help to clear it up. If acne persists or becomes severe, it is a good idea to contact a dermatologist for a professional opinion and possibly also get a prescription medication for the acne.

There are many skin problems that occur in children but the 5 highlighted here are some of the most frequent skin issues that do develop in kids.

Sources:
http://www.pamf.org/children/healthinfo/indexb.cfm?section=healthinfo&page=article&sgml_id=hw199515
http://children.webmd.com/slideshow-common-childhood-skin-problems
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/skinconditions.html