Skin Growths Archives - Page 3 of 3 - Chesapeake Dermatologist

Seborrheic Keratosis

What is Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis is a common skin condition that results in the formation of raised, scaly, waxy or wart-like growths on the skin. These growths are noncancerous (benign) and usually appear in middle-aged or older individuals. They can range in color from light tan to dark brown and can be found on any part of the body, including the face, neck, chest, and back. Seborrheic keratosis is caused by an overgrowth of skin cells, but the exact cause is unknown. They are often harmless, but may be removed for cosmetic reasons or if they become irritated or catch on clothing.

What are the symptoms of Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis usually appears as raised, scaly growths on the skin. The growths can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and can appear anywhere on the body. They are typically:

Brown, black, or tan in color
Waxy or wart-like in texture
Stuck-on appearance, as if they are pasted onto the skin
Smooth or slightly scaly
Round or oval in shape

Seborrheic keratosis is a benign (noncancerous) condition and typically does not cause any symptoms or discomfort. However, some individuals may experience itching or irritation in the affected area. If this occurs, it is important to have the growth evaluated by a dermatologist or skin care professional.

What treatments are available for Seborrheic Keratosis?

Treatment for seborrheic keratosis is not usually necessary as it is a benign (noncancerous) condition. However, some individuals may choose to have their seborrheic keratosis removed for cosmetic reasons. If a seborrheic keratosis becomes irritated or catches on clothing, it may also need to be removed. The following are some of the most common treatments for seborrheic keratosis:

Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen, causing it to blister and eventually fall off.
Curettage: This involves scraping the growth off with a curette, a sharp, spoon-shaped instrument.
Electrosurgery: This involves using an electric current to remove the growth.
Excision: This involves cutting the growth out with a scalpel.

The choice of treatment will depend on the size, location, and number of growths, as well as the patient’s preference. The dermatologist will help determine the best treatment option.

How to Help Prevent Seborrheic Keratosis

The exact cause of seborrheic keratosis is unknown, so there is no guaranteed way to prevent it. However, the following may help reduce the risk of developing seborrheic keratosis:

Follow these tips as well:

Limit sun exposure: Wear protective clothing and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF when spending time outside.
Avoid tanning beds: UV radiation from tanning beds can increase the risk of developing seborrheic keratosis.
Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods may help reduce the risk of developing seborrheic keratosis.
Avoid smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, including seborrheic keratosis.
Monitor skin changes: Regularly check your skin for any new growths or changes in existing moles, and have any suspicious growths evaluated by a dermatologist.

It is important to keep in mind that while these steps may help reduce the risk of developing seborrheic keratosis, they do not guarantee prevention. Regular skin checks and prompt evaluation of any suspicious growths are essential for early detection and treatment of skin conditions.

FAQ About Seborrheic Keratosis

What does Seborrheic Keratosis look like?

A: Seborrheic Keratosis appears as a raised, scaly, or wart-like growth on the skin with a brown, black, or light-brown color.

Is Seborrheic Keratosis contagious?

A: No, Seborrheic Keratosis is not contagious.

Are there any home remedies for Seborrheic Keratosis?

A: No, there are no proven home remedies for Seborrheic Keratosis. Consult a dermatologist for treatment options.

Can Seborrheic Keratosis turn into skin cancer?

A: No, Seborrheic Keratosis is a benign growth and does not turn into skin cancer.

Is Seborrheic Keratosis painful?

A: No, Seborrheic Keratosis is usually not painful, but removal procedures may cause some discomfort.

Is there a dermatologist near me in Chesapeake that offers treatment for Seborrheic Keratosis?

Yes. At our Chesapeake dermatology office we offer treatment for Seborrheic Keratosis to patients from Chesapeake and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Moles

What are Moles?

A mole is a type of skin lesion that is caused by the growth of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin and can be various shapes, sizes, and colors, including black, brown, or flesh-colored. Some moles are present at birth, while others may develop over time. Most moles are benign, but in rare cases, moles can develop into skin cancer, so it’s important to monitor any changes in their appearance and have any suspicious moles evaluated by a dermatologist or skin care professional.

What are the causes of Moles?

Moles are caused by the overgrowth of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. The exact reason for this overgrowth is not fully understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to play a role, including:

Genetics: The tendency to develop moles can be inherited.
Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun can increase the risk of developing moles.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or puberty, can cause the growth of new moles or changes in existing moles.
Age: Moles are more common in younger people and tend to fade or disappear as people age.
Skin type: People with fair skin and lighter hair are more susceptible to developing moles.

It’s also worth noting that some moles can develop as a result of injury or irritation to the skin, such as from friction or rubbing.

What treatments are available for Moles at the dermatologist in Chesapeake?

The treatment for moles depends on various factors, such as the type, size, and location of the mole, as well as any changes in its appearance. Some common treatments include:

Observation: If a mole is benign and not causing any symptoms, a dermatologist may recommend monitoring it for any changes over time.
Surgical removal: Moles can be surgically removed by a dermatologist or skin care professional, either by cutting them out (excision), shaving them off (curettage), or using a laser.
Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the mole with liquid nitrogen, which causes the mole tissue to blister and eventually fall off.
Topical medications: In some cases, topical medications, such as imiquimod, may be used to treat moles by encouraging the immune system to attack the mole cells.
Laser therapy: Laser therapy uses light energy to destroy the mole cells without damaging the surrounding skin.

It’s important to note that any changes in a mole’s appearance, such as itching, bleeding, or changes in color, shape, or size, should be evaluated by a dermatologist or skin care professional as soon as possible, as these may be signs of skin cancer.

How to Help Prevent Moles?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent moles, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing new moles or changes in existing moles:

Protect your skin from the sun: Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
Seek shade: Avoid being in direct sunlight for prolonged periods, especially between 10am and 4pm when the sun’s UV rays are strongest.
Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV rays that can increase the risk of developing moles and skin cancer.
Check your skin regularly: Get into the habit of regularly checking your skin for any new or changing moles, and have any suspicious moles evaluated by a dermatologist or skin care professional.
Be aware of your family history: If you have a family history of skin cancer, you may be at a higher risk of developing moles, so it’s important to take extra precautions to protect your skin.

By following these steps, you can reduce your risk of developing moles and increase the likelihood of early detection and treatment if needed.

FAQ About Moles

Are moles harmful?

Most moles are benign, but in rare cases, moles can develop into skin cancer, so it’s important to monitor any changes in their appearance and have any suspicious moles evaluated by a dermatologist or skin care professional.

Can moles be removed?

Yes, moles can be surgically removed by a dermatologist or skin care professional, either by cutting them out, shaving them off, or using a laser.

Is it safe to remove a mole?

Removing a mole is generally safe, but it’s important to have the procedure performed by a qualified dermatologist or skin care professional to minimize the risk of complications.

How can I tell if a mole is cancerous?

Changes in a mole’s appearance, such as itching, bleeding, or changes in color, shape, or size, may be signs of skin cancer, and should be evaluated by a dermatologist or skin care professional as soon as possible.

Can moles return after removal?

In some cases, moles can return after removal, but this depends on various factors, such as the type, size, and location of the mole, as well as the method of removal.

Is there a dermatologist near me in Chesapeake that offers treatment for moles?

Yes. At our Chesapeake dermatology office we offer treatment for moles to patients from Chesapeake and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Actinic Keratosis

What is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of rough, scaly patches on the skin that have been damaged by repeated exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. These patches are usually red, pink, or skin-colored, and may be precancerous, meaning that they can develop into skin cancer if left untreated. Actinic keratosis is commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, neck, hands, and arms.

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What are the causes of Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis is caused by damage to the skin from exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV radiation from the sun can cause changes in the skin cells, leading to the development of rough, scaly patches. People who have had a lot of sun exposure over their lifetime, especially those who have fair skin, are at a higher risk of developing actinic keratosis. Additionally, factors such as advancing age, certain medical conditions, and taking certain medications can increase a person’s risk of developing this condition.

What are the symptoms of Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis typically presents as small, rough, scaly patches on the skin that are red, pink, or skin-colored. They are usually found on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, neck, arms, and hands. Other symptoms of actinic keratosis include:

A dry, scaly texture to the affected skin
A rough, gritty feeling when rubbing the skin
A slightly raised or flat appearance
A sore that does not heal
A discolored area that is different from the surrounding skinIt’s important to note that not all actinic keratoses are visible or have symptoms. Some may be detected during a routine skin examination.

It’s important to note that not all actinic keratoses are visible or have symptoms. Some may be detected during a routine skin examination.

What treatments are available for Actinic Keratosis?

There are several treatment options available for actinic keratosis, including:

Topical creams and gels: Medications applied directly to the skin can help to remove actinic keratoses. Some of these medications cause the skin to peel, while others are designed to destroy the abnormal cells.
Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the affected skin with liquid nitrogen, causing the actinic keratosis to peel off.
Surgical procedures: In more severe cases, actinic keratosis may be removed with a surgical procedure such as curettage (scraping) or electrodessication (burning).
Light-based treatments: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a procedure that uses a photosensitizing medication and a special light source to destroy actinic keratosis cells.
Systemic therapy: In rare cases, a doctor may prescribe oral medications to help treat actinic keratosis.

The choice of treatment will depend on several factors, including the size, number, and location of the actinic keratoses, as well as the overall health of the patient. A dermatologist or skin care professional can help to determine the best treatment plan for each individual case.

How to Help Prevent Actinic Keratosis?

There are several steps you can take to help prevent actinic keratosis:

Protect your skin from the sun: Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Seek shade: Avoid spending too much time in direct sunlight, especially during the peak hours of 10 am to 4 pm, when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can damage your skin and increase your risk of actinic keratosis and skin cancer.
Get regular skin exams: Early detection and treatment of actinic keratosis can help to prevent the development of skin cancer. It’s important to have regular skin exams by a dermatologist or skin care professional.

By following these preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of developing actinic keratosis and protect your skin from further damage.

FAQ About Actinic Keratosis

Who is at risk for actinic keratosis?

People who have had a lot of sun exposure over their lifetime, especially those with fair skin, are at a higher risk of developing actinic keratosis.

Can actinic keratosis turn into skin cancer?

Yes, actinic keratosis can develop into skin cancer if left untreated.

What should I do if I have actinic keratosis?

If you have actinic keratosis, it’s important to see a dermatologist or skin care professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Is actinic keratosis contagious?

No, actinic keratosis is not contagious and cannot be spread from one person to another.

Is there a dermatologist near me in Chesapeake that offers treatment for actinic keratosis?

Yes. At our Chesapeake dermatology office we offers treatment for actinic keratosis to patients from Chesapeake and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Hives (Urticaria)

What are Hives?

Hives are raised red bumps (welts) or splotches on the skin that are usually very itchy. They are a type of swelling on the surface of your skin that happen when your body has an allergic reaction to something.

What are the signs and symptoms of Hives?

Individual hives can take from 30 minutes to 36 hours to disappear. Chronic hives, referred to as urticaria, last longer than six weeks to go away, but frequently reoccur. If swelling occurs below the surface of the skin, a condition called angioedema, you should seek medical attention because angioedema can affect the internal organs.

Signs of hives include:

Developing in batches
Often raised
Small, round rings or large patches with a red flare
Usually itch

What are the causes of Hives?

Hives develop when mast cells release histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream, causing small blood vessels to leak. Generally, hives are an allergic reaction to a food, animal or medication. Sun exposure, stress, excessive perspiration and other more serious conditions, like lupus, can bring on hives.

What treatments are available at the dermatologist for Hives?

Our dermatologist may recommend various treatments and strategies to help manage and alleviate hives, depending on the severity and underlying causes.

Here are some common treatments available at the dermatologist’s office:

Antihistamines: Non-prescription (over-the-counter) antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), or fexofenadine (Allegra) can help relieve itching and reduce the severity of hives. Dermatologists may also prescribe stronger prescription antihistamines.
Corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroid creams or ointments can be applied directly to the affected skin to reduce inflammation and itching. Oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for severe cases of hives or when topical treatments are not effective.
Epinephrine (EpiPen): In rare cases of severe hives accompanied by anaphylaxis or difficulty breathing, an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) may be prescribed to quickly relieve symptoms.
Immune-suppressing medications: For chronic or severe cases of hives that do not respond to other treatments, dermatologists may prescribe medications that suppress the immune system, such as cyclosporine or omalizumab (Xolair).
Triggers identification and avoidance: Dermatologists may work with patients to identify and avoid triggers that can exacerbate hives. Common triggers include certain foods, medications, insect stings, physical stimuli (like heat, cold, or pressure), and stress.
Physical therapies: For certain types of hives, such as cold urticaria or pressure urticaria, dermatologists may recommend physical therapies like cold packs or pressure-reducing strategies to manage symptoms.
Allergy testing: If an allergic trigger is suspected, allergen testing may be conducted to identify specific allergens responsible for hives. This can help with avoidance strategies.

FAQ About Hives

Are hives contagious?

Hives are not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person through direct contact.

How long do hives last?

Hives can last anywhere from a few minutes to several days or even weeks. They can be chronic, or recurring, in some cases.

Can hives lead to more serious conditions?

In some cases, hives can be a symptom of a more serious allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis. If hives are accompanied by difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a rapid heartbeat, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Is there a dermatologist near me in Chesapeake that offers treatment for hives?

Yes. At our Chesapeake dermatology office we offer treatment for hives to patients from Chesapeake and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

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