What is folliculitis? Before dealing with the various folliculitis treatment options, perhaps it may be prudent to give an overview of just what folliculitis is.
Folliculitis is a skin complaint that can arise almost anywhere on the skin, although it appears most often on the legs ,chest and back. It displays as inflammation as a result of an infection of the hair follicles, usually caused by some form of bacteria or fungus. The most common infection comes from Staphylococcus.
Contrary to popular belief, folliculitis does not occur as a result of dirtiness or ill health. In fact, it is possible for the hale and hearty to suffer with this problem, and they frequently do. Those people that consider themselves relatively clean, perhaps showering frequently, can and still do, suffer, even though the cause is a fungal or bacterial infection. It can be concluded therefore, that staying clean does not guarantee prevention against folliculitis.
The condition is a comparatively minor ailment, scarcely even mildly serious and certainly not fatal. However, most sufferers agree that it can be extremely uncomfortable, with continual itching and scratching, which if left untreated, can lead to possible scarring. Many people will be seeking a folliculitis treatment to deal with the embarrassment and self esteem factors, the importance of which should not be underestimated or ignored.
Characteristically, some form of irritation of the hair follicles is the cause of folliculitis. Friction or coarse action , such as wearing tight clothing or shaving, are typical sources of irritation. A more infrequent cause could be in-growing hairs. The disturbance of the follicles leads to infection which eventually causes irritation. Heat can often hasten the inception of the problem, which explains why the groin, upper body and ankles are often affected.
A physical examination by a doctor or medical professional is the typical , and straightforward method of diagnosis. The resulting symptoms can give an extremely itchy feeling, appearing as a rash or many red spots. These spots can occasionally be very sensitive to the touch, and become pimple-like, with a white head. It is not uncommon for them to seep or ooze pus, or to harden forming a yellow scab.
The regular folliculitis treatment methods of today, as with most modern day medicine, do not totally eliminate the problem, but merely address the symptoms and provide some relief. The particular treatment offered will depend on whether the diagnosis confirms a fungal infection or a bacterial infection.
A more universal treatment may include the application of a warm, slightly damp compress to soften the area and assist with the drainage of the follicles. In order to clean and purify the follicles, a topical antiseptic cream or treatment should be applied.
Prescription drugs for bacterial folliculitis treatment may consist of antibiotic creams and ointments, usually containing mupirocin or neomycin. These are usually quite effective. Fungal folliculitis treatment will most likely take the form of an anti-fungal cream containing econzole nitrate. Although drugs such as dicloxacillin and fluconazole can be taken orally for the condition, topical creams are the preferred option.
Currently however, many sufferers are choosing to take a more holistic, natural approach to their folliculitis treatment.
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