May 14, 2023 | Blog
Abscesses, commonly referred to as boils, are inflamed lumps that emerge beneath the skin and can be quite painful. These boils result from infections in hair follicles or oil glands. Boils can appear on any part of the body, but they are often found on the neck, face, buttocks, thighs, and armpits.
Causes of Boils
Boils are mainly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that usually resides on the skin and inside the nose, but can infiltrate the body through a wound or skin breakage. Other bacterial strains such as Streptococcus pyogenes can also cause boils. The risk factors for boils development include:
- Poor hygiene
- Diabetes
- Exposure to harsh chemicals
- Weakened immune system
- Friction from shaving or wearing tight clothes
- Certain medications like steroids
Symptoms of Boils
Boils commonly start as red, tender bumps that progressively grow in size within a few days. The sizes of boils can range from a pea size to a golf ball. They may be accompanied by a fever or feeling of general illness. As the boil expands, it may develop a yellow or white center, which is pus that has collected beneath the skin. The skin over the boil may also be tender and swollen.
Types of Boils
Various types of boils include:
- Furuncles: single boils that manifest on the skin and are often caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
- Carbuncles: clusters of boils that are typically more massive than furuncles and can cause significant pain. Carbuncles are also more likely to induce a fever or other systemic symptoms than furuncles.
- Cystic acne: deep, inflamed, and painful cysts that occur on the neck, face, chest, and back due to clogged hair follicles.
Treatments for Boils
Most boils tend to heal without treatment within several weeks. Nonetheless, some treatments can help to alleviate the pain and quicken the healing process. They include:
- Applying warm compresses to the affected area for several minutes multiple times a day.
- Taking over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Keeping the affected region clean and dry to prevent further infection.
- Taking antibiotics if the boil is severe or there are multiple boils.
- In rare cases, a boil may need to be drained by a healthcare professional. This involves making a small incision in the skin and draining the pus out of the boil.
Preventing Boils
Several measures can be taken to prevent the development of boils, such as:
- Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and showering after heavy sweating or exercise.
- Avoiding sharing personal items like towels, razors, or clothing.
- Avoiding tight-fitting clothes that can cause skin friction.
- Promptly treating any cuts or breaks in the skin with antiseptic to prevent infection.
Boils can be uncomfortable and painful, but they are usually not a serious cause for concern. Good hygiene practices and measures to prevent the development of boils can help to keep your skin healthy and infection-free. Most boils tend to heal on their own within a few weeks, but if the boil does not heal or you experience symptoms of a severe infection, it is important to seek medical attention. Contact Dr. Neily at our Venice dermatology office to schedule an appointment.
May 21, 2023 | Blog
Birthmarks are a common occurrence in newborns and are characterized by an overgrowth of skin pigment cells or blood vessels. While most birthmarks are benign, some may indicate an underlying medical condition. The exact cause of birthmarks is still unknown, although some factors may increase the likelihood of developing them, such as genetics and certain medical conditions.
There are two primary types of birthmarks: pigmented and vascular.
Pigmented Birthmarks:
Café-au-lait Spots: These spots are typically present at birth and are flat, light brown in color.
Mongolian Spots: These blue-gray patches of skin are typically found on the lower back or buttocks.
Moles: Moles are clusters of pigment cells and can vary in color, size, and shape.
Vascular Birthmarks:
Port-wine Stains: These red or purple birthmarks are caused by abnormal blood vessel growth.
Strawberry Hemangiomas: These raised, red birthmarks usually appear within the first few weeks of life.
Salmon Patches: These pink birthmarks are typically flat and can be found on the forehead, eyelids, or neck.
Treatment options for birthmarks depend on the type and severity of the birthmark. While most birthmarks do not require treatment and will fade over time, some may cause discomfort or be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Here are some common treatments for birthmarks:
Laser Therapy: This treatment uses lasers to target and destroy the blood vessels or pigment cells in the birthmark.
Surgery: In some cases, surgical removal may be necessary.
Medications: Certain medications can help to shrink or reduce the appearance of birthmarks.
It is important to consult with a dermatologist if you have concerns about a birthmark. Although most birthmarks are harmless, some may require treatment if they are causing discomfort or indicate an underlying medical condition. Dr. Neily, a board-certified dermatologist in Venice, Florida can provide expert guidance and care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
May 27, 2023 | Blog
Pregnancy is a time of joy and excitement for women, but it also brings about changes in the skin. Due to hormonal fluctuations, various skin conditions can arise during pregnancy that can be uncomfortable, painful, and irritating. Luckily, there are treatments available to alleviate these conditions, and a dermatologist can help with the process. Let’s take a look at some of the most common skin conditions during pregnancy and the recommended dermatology treatments for each.
Melasma:
Melasma is a skin condition that frequently occurs during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Dark patches appear on the face, especially on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and upper lip. To treat melasma, dermatologists usually suggest topical creams containing hydroquinone, corticosteroids, or tretinoin. Other options include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser therapy, which can reduce the visibility of dark spots.
Acne:
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can worsen acne. Dermatologists may suggest benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid for topical treatment. Depending on the acne’s severity, other medications such as oral antibiotics or other prescription medicines may be prescribed.
Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy (PUPPP):
PUPPP is a common skin condition that appears during the third trimester of pregnancy. It creates red, itchy, and raised bumps on the skin, particularly on the thighs, abdomen, and buttocks. Antihistamines and topical steroids can help relieve PUPPP-related itching.
Papular Eruptions of Pregnancy:
Papular Eruptions of Pregnancy (PEP) is another common skin condition that occurs during pregnancy. It causes itchy red bumps to appear on the skin, usually on the arms, legs, and abdomen. Topical steroids, oral antihistamines, or UV light therapy are typical treatments for PEP.
Pemphigoid Gestationis:
Pemphigoid Gestationis (PG) is an autoimmune disorder that is rare but can develop during pregnancy. The skin develops itchy, blistering lesions that typically begin around the belly button and can spread to other areas of the body. Treatment involves the use of topical and/or oral steroids to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
Intrahepatic Cholestasis:
Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) is a liver disorder that occurs during pregnancy. It causes intense itching on the hands and feet and can be associated with jaundice. Doctors generally prescribe medications to relieve itching and monitor liver function. Delivery may also be suggested, as the condition can worsen in the later stages of pregnancy.
If you’re suffering from any of these skin conditions during pregnancy, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist. Dr. Neily in Venice, Florida is available to diagnose the condition and recommend the best treatment options to ensure the health of both you and your baby. Contact us today!
Jun 7, 2023 | Blog
Granulomas refer to small areas of inflammation that develop in response to irritants, infections, or foreign substances in various tissues of the body. These clusters of immune cells, such as macrophages, gather together to contain the irritant. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the symptoms, causes, types, and treatments of granulomas.
Causes of Granulomas
Several factors can lead to the formation of granulomas, including infections, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and exposure to foreign substances. Some of the most common causes of granulomas include:
- Infections such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, and leprosy
- Autoimmune diseases such as Crohn’s disease and sarcoidosis
- Exposure to foreign substances such as talcum powder or silicone
- Chronic inflammation due to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease
Symptoms of Granulomas
The symptoms of granulomas may vary depending on the location and cause of the granuloma. In some cases, they may not cause any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms of granulomas include:
- Bumps or lesions on the skin
- Fatigue
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
Types of Granulomas
There are several types of granulomas, which include:
- Tuberculoid granulomas: Caused by tuberculosis or other mycobacterial infections and characterized by a central area of caseation necrosis surrounded by immune cells.
- Foreign body granulomas: Develop in response to foreign substances that cannot be broken down by the body, such as talcum powder or silicone.
- Sarcoid granulomas: Characteristic of sarcoidosis, an autoimmune disease where immune cells cluster together in organs like the lungs, lymph nodes, and other areas.
- Granulomatous vasculitis: An inflammatory condition that affects blood vessels, leading to the formation of granulomas around vessel walls.
Treatments for Granulomas
The treatment of granulomas depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Treatment options include:
- Antibiotics or antifungal medication for infections
- Steroids or immunosuppressive medication for autoimmune diseases
- Surgical removal of foreign bodies
- Injections of corticosteroids into the affected area to reduce inflammation and promote healing
In some cases, granulomas may not require treatment and may go away on their own. If you have symptoms of a granuloma, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan. Call our Venice office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Neily today!
May 7, 2023 | Blog
Mar 30, 2023 | Blog
Skin cancer is a prevalent condition in the United States, with over 3.5 million new cases diagnosed every year. The disease is highly treatable when detected early, but it can become fatal if left untreated. Therefore, regular skin cancer screenings with a dermatologist are crucial.
During a skin cancer screening we will perform a head-to-toe examination to detect any unusual moles, growths, or other irregularities on the skin. They will also check for any changes in existing moles’ size, shape, or color and any new growths that may have developed.
If any suspicious tissue is found during the screening, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. This procedure involves removing a small tissue sample and examining it under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous.
If skin cancer is diagnosed, Dr. Neily will collaborate with the patient to design a treatment plan. The most common treatments for skin cancer include surgical removal of the cancerous tissue, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Early detection of skin cancer is crucial for effective treatment. Therefore, it is recommended to visit a dermatologist like Dr. Neily regularly for skin cancer screenings. Even without visible signs of skin cancer, it is advisable to have a routine checkup with a dermatologist since they are trained to identify subtle changes in the skin.
Here are some DO’s and DON’Ts for preventing skin cancer:
DO:
- Wear protective clothing and accessories, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts and pants, when you’re outside, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed skin every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Seek shade when the sun’s rays are the strongest, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that includes foods naturally rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish and egg yolks, and/or by taking a daily supplement.
- Examine your skin regularly and see a dermatologist if you notice any changes in the size, shape, or color of your moles or any other unusual growths on your skin.
DON’T:
- Skip wearing sunscreen because you’re using insect repellent or wearing protective clothing. Both are essential for protecting your skin.
- Use tanning beds or sunlamps. The UV radiation from these sources can increase your risk of skin cancer.
- Rely on the SPF in your makeup or moisturizer. These products are not a substitute for sunscreen and do not provide enough protection on their own.
- Let yourself burn. Even one severe sunburn can increase your risk of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is a widespread disease in the US, and early detection is critical for successful treatment. Schedule your skin cancer screening appointment with Dr. Neily in Venice, FL, today to ensure optimal skin health.
Schedule a skin cancer appointment today.
