Non-Infectious Otitis Externa Underneath Dead Skin Plug (Acetic Acid Discussed)

February 6, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Ear eczema

Introduction

Ear eczema can be an extremely irritating and, at times, painful condition. It can range from slight dryness of the pinna (the visible, projecting part of the ear) to extensive skin loss and soreness, as well as infection of the external and internal parts of the ear. Eczema can affect the entire ear including the earlobes, conchal bowl (the area outside the ear hole), the ear opening (meatus), ear canal (also known as the external auditory canal – the part of the ear that leads to the ear drum) and the ear drum itself (also known as the tympanic membrane). The ear folds, backs of the ears and the area where the ears meet the face are also common areas for eczema.

There are a number of causes of ear eczema and it is always best to consult your doctor if you think you may have it, in order to get effective treatment and prevent flare-ups. Several different types of eczema may affect the ear.

Atopic eczema

The ears and skin behind the ears are frequently affected in people with atopic eczema. As with other areas of the body, the eczematous skin here is dry, itchy and red or darker than a person’s usual skin colour, depending on skin tone. It can easily become infected, especially if the skin is scratched and breaks. A common site of ear eczema in people with atopic eczema is the junction between the earlobe and the face. Eczema in this area can cause painful cracks (fissures) in the skin, which can then easily become infected. Sometimes eczema can affect the whole of the pinna and track down the ear canal.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a form of eczema triggered by an over-reaction of the skin’s immune system to an overgrowth of a harmless yeast called malassezia that lives on the skin. People who have this type of eczema often have dandruff on the scalp and itchy, flaky skin with a yellowish, greasy scale in typical seborrhoeic dermatitis areas, which include the face (along the smile lines and eyebrows), centre of the chest and sometimes the eyelids and ears.

Around the ears, seborrhoeic dermatitis often takes the form of inflammation of the ear canal and along the hairline behind the ear (the post-auricular area), which can lead to painful fissures or cracks. It can sometimes be confused with psoriasis.

Treatment usually aims to reduce the overgrowth of yeast on the skin. This may include anti-fungal shampoos to wash the skin, and creams that may or may not contain mild topical steroids, such as Daktacort cream, to help reduce inflammation. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (Protopic ointment or Elidel cream) are sometimes used for this form of eczema, although they are not licensed for it.

Asteatotic eczema

This type of eczema affects older people. The exposed ear is vulnerable to changes in weather and temperature, which lead to dry, scaly and itchy skin causing asteatotic eczema. Aggravating factors include over-washing, cold or windy weather, central heating, low humidity indoors and air-conditioning.

Contact dermatitis

The external ear is commonly affected by both irritant and allergic contact dermatitis.

Irritant contact dermatitis comes about when the skin’s surface is irritated by a substance that causes the skin to become dry, itchy and red or darker than a person’s usual skin colour, depending on skin tone. Examples of substances that can cause irritant contact dermatitis around and inside the ears are shampoo, hair gel, hair spray, perm solution, hair colourant and perfume.

Allergic contact dermatitis develops as a result of your body reacting to a particular substance to which you are allergic. Everyday items that can cause allergic contact dermatitis around and inside the ears include the following:

Products used for the hair and scalp (for example, shampoo, conditioner, gel, hairspray, hair colourant, perm solution, hairpins and grips, hairnets and bathing caps). You might wish to try wearing ear plugs when showering and washing your hair, as these stop products collecting in the ear canal.
Earrings and studs, especially those containing nickel.
Plastic, rubber or metal ear appliances (for example, hearing aids and moulds, spectacles, head- and earphones, earbuds and earplugs).
Objects used to clean or scratch the ear.
Cosmetics and toiletries (for example, make-up, perfume and soap).
Topical medications (for example, ointments, creams and gels).
Allergens transferred to the ears via the fingers (for example, nail varnish and plant resin from poison ivy or oak).

Otitis externa

Also known as ‘swimmer’s ear’, this is an inflammatory condition of the ear canal. It can be caused by a primary skin problem, such as eczema, or by a bacterial or fungal infection. Having ear eczema increases your risk of getting otitis externa too. Other risk factors include swimming, sweating, high humidity and local trauma to the ear canal (for example, by using cotton buds or scratching the inside of the ear).

Symptoms include earache, skin becoming red or darker than your usual skin colour, depending on skin tone, swelling, itching and discharge from inside the ear. In severe cases, it can reduce people’s hearing due to swelling of the ear canal.

In suspected cases, dermatologists may seek help from the ear, nose and throat (ENT) medical team. To avoid getting otitis externa:

Keep the ear clean.
Avoid trauma, irritants and allergens.
Keep the outside of the ear dry – particularly after bathing and swimming.
Make sure any underlying contributing skin condition is well-controlled.

Ear piercing

Ear piercing does not cause ear eczema, but problems can occur later on as a consequence of wearing earrings or studs. Nickel allergy is very common and the chance of this developing is greatly increased if you have your ears pierced and if anything made even partly from nickel is worn in or on the ear.

If you definitely have a nickel allergy, wear only ‘hypo-allergenic’ jewellery or jewellery made from 18- carat gold, pure sterling silver, platinum or good-quality stainless steel. Foreign silver, rolled gold, white gold and gold plating should be avoided.

Pierced ears can become infected, particularly just after piercing. Make sure you go to a reputable ear-piercing technician to get your ears pierced, and wash the piercings frequently afterwards with the saline solution you were given by the ear-piercing technician.

Treatment of ear eczema

Treatment of ear eczema will depend on the cause and type of eczema, which will need to be diagnosed by your GP.

For atopic, seborrhoeic or asteatotic eczema, apply a medical emollient frequently to the affected areas. You may be prescribed a topical steroid for sore areas behind the ears, and in their folds. If you have seborrhoeic dermatitis, a topical steroid combined with an antifungal may be prescribed.

Topical calcineurin inhibitors, the brand names of which are Protopic and Elidel, are sometimes prescribed for ear eczema.

Apply your topical treatments by using a cotton bud to gently paint your cream or ointment on the affected area. Do not push the cotton bud into your ear.

If you have eczema inside the ear canal, you will need steroid drops, which will be prescribed by your GP or other healthcare professional.

If allergic contact dermatitis is suspected, you may be referred to a dermatology department to help find out what you are allergic to so that you can avoid it in the future. The dermatologist will usually recommend patch testing.

The usual treatment for otitis externa is antibiotic ear drops, which may also contain a steroid to reduce inflammation, itch and swelling. Sometimes a swab is taken to identify the most appropriate antibiotics – particularly if the condition does not improve. The ENT clinic may also clean the ear using gentle suction or irrigation (called ‘aural toilet’).

Cleaning of the ears and self-care

You can very gently wash the inside of your outer ear with water or preferably an emollient wash. You can also apply a damp cotton bud very gently to the bowl area of your ear but do not insert it into the ear canal. Never try to wash further into the ears – you can damage the skin of the ear canal by doing this.

After washing, dry your ears thoroughly. Using a warm (not hot) hairdryer is a good way to ensure your ears are dry. Avoid scratching the inside of your ears, especially with matches or hair grips – not only can these damage your ear canal skin or drum, but they may cause an allergic reaction after continuous use.

The use of ear candles is not advised as there is no evidence to suggest that they work, and they can damage the ears.

If you go swimming, use ear plugs. You can get custom-made ear moulds to fit your ears – they are like the moulds used for hearing aids. Ear moulds can be made and fitted at hearing aid centres. Larger chemists such as Boots provide this service, as do private audiologists.

Olive oil is sometimes recommended for moisturising around the ear pinna and loosening wax. However, medical research evidence shows that olive oil damages the skin barrier. Instead, we recommend applying an emollient to treat dry skin around the ears and in the entrance to the ear canals, and use refined petroleum oil (unfragranced baby oil) or sunflower oil to soften ear wax (but consult first with a healthcare professional). Water is not recommended, nor are wax softener products bought from chemists, as they may encourage the build-up of debris and cause more inflammation and irritation.

Infected ear eczema

Skin affected by eczema and dermatitis can become infected, usually by bacteria, especially if the skin surface is broken due to dryness and scratching. This is similar to eczema infections on other areas of the skin.

Ear eczema that becomes infected can encourage a build-up of wax, skin scales and hair in the ear canal, which can lead to blockage and cause temporary deafness. Infected eczema and ear infections can also come about when the ears are wet for long periods of time. For instance, if you swim a lot and leave your ears damp after swimming or washing your hair, your chances of an ear infection increase. Pressure from hearing aids and earpieces can also encourage ear infection, so try to ensure they are a comfortable fit.

Symptoms of infection inside the ear include earache, itching, pain, the skin becoming red or darker than your usual skin colour, depending on skin tone, weeping, swelling and an unpleasant smell or dirty-coloured discharge (often yellow or green) from inside the ear. If you have any of these signs, make an appointment to see your GP. Please note: ear discharge that is clear is normal if you have ear eczema, especially when eczema is active (weepy eczema).

You may be prescribed a ‘combination’ preparation containing a mixture of antibiotic and topical steroid for bacterial infections, or an antifungal and topical steroid for fungal infections. You should complete the course of treatment.

Aural toilet by healthcare professionals

A build-up of wax and flaky skin from patches of eczema can produce a lot of ‘debris’ in the ear canal. This can easily get infected, especially when water is present. So prevention of ear infection is key.

Manual cleaning of the ear by a healthcare professional is called ‘aural toilet’ and is often recommended to remove the debris and scale that can build up in the ear canal. It is done under a microscope, either using a pick or hook (Jobson Horne probe), or microsuction, an electric suction system.

Microsuction is also recommended if ear wax is truly impacted, and is considered safer and definitely better than flushing the ears with water, especially for people with ear eczema. Although many GP practices offer ear syringing and/or ear irrigation (an electronic machine for washing the ears) to remove ear wax, water-based methods are not recommended for people with ear eczema, unless it is very mild. Sometimes regular aural toilet is recommended (once or twice a year) to prevent wax and eczema debris build-up.

Aural toilet can be performed by aural care nurses/technicians, or sometimes by specially trained practice nurses. Ask your GP for a referral to the aural care service (provision may vary around the UK). Alternatively, this service may be provided privately by audiologists – your GP practice may be able to make a recommendation.

In summary

Ear eczema can be an extremely irritating condition and since it is difficult to look into the ears without specialist equipment, it is often hard to know what is going on, particularly in the case of young children.

If the ears become uncomfortable, don’t ignore it – it is always best to see your GP/healthcare professional, who can use a special torch to look inside. Often this will reveal the cause of ear discomfort and the problem can then be resolved, using one of the many treatments available for ear eczema and ear infections.

Health

Woman who ‘died’ of heart attack in A&E woke up 14 minutes later with a baby

February 6, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Woman who ‘died’ of heart attack in A&E woke up 14 minutes later with a baby

Natasha Sokunbi was ‘clinically dead’ while giving birth to her daughter

A woman who was ‘clinically dead’ for 14 minutes woke up to discover she’d given birth to a baby girl.

Natasha Sokunbi had been 37 weeks pregnant when she began suffering from chest pains and had trouble breathing, so she called 111 and was advised to go to the hospital.

Arriving at the Royal Stoke University Hospital in a taxi, the Stafford woman collapsed in the waiting room of a cardiac arrest.

While efforts were made to resuscitate her, her doctors were also working on saving her unborn baby, with Natasha being rushed into surgery and her baby being born by emergency c-section four minutes later.

Hospital staff spent over half an hour resuscitating her before putting her into an induced coma. She then woke up the next day to discover that she’d given birth during her near-death experience, with her daughter being called Beau.

Natasha Sokunbi went to A&E, where she collapsed with a cardiac arrest (SWNS)

“My heart wasn’t beating when the doctors delivered Beau. I was basically dead when they pulled her out.” Natasha explained.

“One team of medics was delivering her via C-section while another team performed CPR on me. The next thing I remember was when I woke up in intensive care and my husband walked over to me with a photo of Beau and said, ‘It’s a girl.’.

“We hadn’t found out the sex, so it was a complete surprise. I couldn’t see Beau straight away because I was still very weak and she was in the neonatal unit, but I finally saw her a few days later.

“I was really poorly, but the doctors and medical teams were amazing. They told me I’d been clinically dead for 14 minutes. They saved my baby, and they saved me.”

Natasha, 30, and her husband, Ayo, 29, had been preparing to welcome their second child when she collapsed in A&E on 3 December.

She’d not been feeling well ‘for a couple of weeks because of a chest infection’ and on the day she ‘died’, she took a taxi to the hospital after calling 111.

Doctors saved Natasha’s life and delivered baby Beau in an emergency c-section (SWNS)

Natasha remembered collapsing in the waiting room and falling ‘forward onto my baby bump’, and she also remembered the doctors performing CPR.

She could also’remember being in pain’ during the c-section, but then everything went black.

Ayo had been looking after the couple’s other daughter, named Love, when he got a call from the hospital and initially thought doctors were trying to tell him the baby had been born.

Natasha said she had heart problems and thinks the pregnancy put more strain on her, but she’s very ‘grateful to the doctors for saving me and Beau’ and praised the hospital staff as ‘all fantastic’ for helping keep her alive and deliver her’miracle’ daughter.

In recognition of their quick actions, the hospital staff involved with Natasha and Beau’s care were awarded with the Chief Executive Award, as Dr. Andrew Bennett called it ‘one of the proudest moments that this department really has ever seen’.

Featured Image Credit: SWNS

Health

Ingrown Nail Tools [ Relaxing Cleaning Nail ] #usa #video #viralvideo

February 5, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Nail Surgery: A Complete Guide

If you are reading this, then the chances are you are struggling with an ingrown toenail or another painful nail condition and are considering nail surgery as a solution. Our Podiatrists at The House Clinics, Bristol, often see and treat people suffering from problematic nails.

It is essential to have your toenail examined by a fully qualified podiatrist to determine the cause of your nail condition and advise on the best treatment. Sometimes the issue can be addressed with minor intervention, but often, ingrown toenails and some other nail conditions are best resolved by nail surgery, involving a partial or complete nail extraction.

Read our guide to help you understand why you may need surgery and what to expect.

1. What Does Toenail Surgery Treat?

The most common reasons why you may need toenail surgery include the following:

Ingrowing Toenails:

An ingrowing toenail occurs when the corner or side of your toenail begins to grow into the soft flesh (sulcal tissue) and sets off an inflammatory response. It will usually become very painful, red, and swollen and may become infected with accompanying puss. It is usually the big toe that is affected.

Causes of ingrowing toenails vary from genetics to poor footwear. Some people are born with nails where the lateral curvature of the nail plate is excessive or exaggerated, and the nail is more likely to grow into the surrounding skin. Other causes include poor nail cutting, nail picking, trauma, ill-fitting shoes, smoking, and medications that can cause the nail to change shape.

Sometimes an ingrowing toenail can be treated at home, but when it becomes painful and infected, it should be seen by a Podiatrist who will advise the best treatment to alleviate pain and promote healing. Nail Surgery is often the best solution for recurrent ingrowing toenails.

Ingorwn toenails are the most common reason why nail surgery is performed, The House Clinics Podiatry, Bristol

2. Deformed or Thickened Toenails (Gryphosis):

Deformed and thickened toenails can develop due to trauma and injury, practising certain sports involving lots of toe impact (football, running, rambling), and ill-fitting shoes. A fungal infection of the nail can also cause the nail to thicken. In the case of thickened nails, just a fraction of an extra millimeter thickness in nails can put excessive pressure on the nail bed. This causes soreness, sometimes a tissue breakdown under the nail, and then ulcerations. When nails are damaged or deformed, the nail can cut into the skin tissue or leave the nail bed exposed and sore – raising the risk of infection.

Podiatry treatment for this type of nail problem varies depending on how severely damaged the nail is. Nail surgery can be a good solution, though if other interventions are unsuccessful.

Damaged and painful toenails can be treated by a podiatrist at The House Clinics, Bristol Thickened toenails can be treated by a podiatrist at The House Clinics, Bristol

What Are The Benefits of Toenail Surgery?

Patients who come to The House Clinics are very relieved after the procedure for the following reasons:

Nail Surgery is a permanent cure to your problem
Pain is relieved & the cause of infection removed
A Pain-free procedure with minimal discomfort afterwards
Normal activities can be resumed
No need to take time off work/school
Being able to wear regular shoes again
Local anaesthetic, no fasting required
Partial nail removal is cosmetically acceptable

What Does The Procedure Involve?

On the day of the procedure, you can carry on with your normal routine, including eating and drinking and taking any medications (unless you are told not to). Still, it is important to give yourself some downtime after the procedure, put your feet up and take it easy for the rest of the day.
The toe is anaesthetised with a local anaesthetic applied at the base of the toe. This is the only painful part of the procedure and is no worse than an ordinary injection.
When the toe is completely numb (and we always check!), an antiseptic solution will be applied to your toe to minimise the chance of infection. The offending nail or piece of the nail will then be removed.
A chemical solution (phenol) is applied to stop the nail from regrowing.
A protective dressing will be applied, and the operation is complete. The whole procedure is over and done within an hour (for one toe).
A follow-up appointment will be arranged with you so that the podiatrist can assess and re-dress the toe.
You can then head home and relax for the rest of the day with your feet up!

It is always our preference not to perform a complete nail extraction if it can be avoided. However, in certain cases, we may advise this as the best treatment depending on your condition. In most cases, partial removal is performed.

Private Nail Surgery Appointments at The House Clinics, Bristol

Does Nail Surgery Hurt?

It’s normal to worry about how painful nail surgery might be. Reassuringly, the only slightly painful part is the injection used to administer anaesthetic – very similar to the one you may have in your gums at the Dentist. Once the toe is numb, you will not experience any pain while the nail is removed. After the procedure, when the anaesthetic wears off, the toe will be cushioned in a protective dressing. It may feel a little tender but should not be painful at all. You just need to take care not to knock it against something!

Our podiatrists are experienced in performing nail surgery on young children and those who may be anxious.

How long does it take to recover from toenail removal?

Complete recovery from toenail surgery takes approximately 4-6 weeks. You can carry on with your normal activities and routine, but you should avoid certain sporting activities and anything that may irritate the operation site until it is healed. You will need to visit the podiatrist for a follow-up appointment to check the toe and reapply a dressing. Regular dressing of the toe is also required by the patient. Our team is always on hand if you have any concerns after the operation.

How Much Does Nail Surgery Cost?

Nail Surgery costs £375 for one toe and £110 for each additional toe. This price includes your initial assessment, the treatment, anaesthetic, dressings, and a follow-up appointment.

An initial Podiatry consultation is £60. The podiatrist will only advise nail surgery if it is the best solution to your problematic nail. In some cases, other interventions can work well.

NHS Vs Private – Why Should I Pay For Nail Surgery?

Here at The House Clinics, Our Podiatrist Team prides itself in providing a highly personal, friendly, and professional service. The cost of Nail Surgery is a reflection of the expert skill and knowledge required to perform nail surgery safely and effectively to ensure your rapid recovery. Before the operation, our Podiatrists will take the time to get to know you and your particular toenail problem and provide excellent care before, during, and after the procedure. They are also always on hand to answer questions or concerns.

Highly convenient – No waiting times
Personalised service
Professional treatment and advice from the same podiatrist throughout the course of your treatment and aftercare.
Convenient appointment times (evenings and Saturdays) or at a time of day that suits you (The NHS often only offer certain days and times).
Comfortable and relaxed clinic environment

How Do I Book Nail Surgery?

If you have been told by a nurse or GP that you need nail surgery, you can book an appointment immediately (1 hour) at one of our clinics without needing an initial consultation. If you would like to chat with a podiatrist first, we can offer you a free telephone consultation to discuss the procedure and answer any questions you may have.

Otherwise, if you have a painful nail condition that you suspect may need surgery, please book an initial Podiatry Consultation First. The podiatrist will then be able to examine your toe and advise the best treatment for you.

Health

𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐏𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠

February 4, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Acne

Acne is a very common skin condition that causes pimples. You’ll usually get pimples on your face. Clogged pores cause acne. Teenagers and young adults most often get acne, but it can also occur during adulthood for many people. Treatment is available to clear acne from your skin and prevent scarring.

Overview

What is acne?

Acne is a common skin condition where the pores of your skin clog. Pore blockages produce blackheads, whiteheads and other types of pimples. Pimples are pus-filled, sometimes painful, bumps on your skin.

The medical term for acne is acne vulgaris.

What are the types of acne?

There are several types of acne, including:

Fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis): Fungal acne occurs when yeast builds up in your hair follicles. These can be itchy and inflamed.
Cystic acne: Cystic acne causes deep, pus-filled pimples and nodules. These can cause scars.
Hormonal acne: Hormonal acne affects adults who have an overproduction of sebum that clogs their pores.
Nodular acne: Nodular acne is a severe form of acne that causes pimples on the surface of your skin, and tender, nodular lumps under your skin.

All of these forms of acne can affect your self-esteem, and both cystic and nodular acne can lead to permanent skin damage in the form of scarring. It’s best to seek help from a healthcare provider early so they can determine the best treatment option(s) for you.

Who does acne affect?

Acne usually affects everyone at some point in their lifetime. It’s most common among teenagers and young adults undergoing hormonal changes, but acne can also occur during adulthood. Adult acne is more common among women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB). You may be more at risk of developing acne if you have a family history of acne (genetics).

How common is acne?

If you have acne, know that you’re not alone. Acne is the most common skin condition that people experience. An estimated 80% of people ages 11 to 30 will have at least a mild form of acne.

Where on my body will I have acne?

The most common places where you might have acne are on your:

Face.
Forehead.
Chest.
Shoulders.
Upper back.

Oil glands exist all over your body. The common locations of acne are where oil glands exist the most.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of acne?

Symptoms of acne on your skin include:

Pimples (pustules): Pus-filled bumps (papules).
Papules: Small, discolored bumps, often red to purple or darker than your natural skin tone.
Blackheads: Plugged pores with a black top.
Whiteheads: Plugged pores with a white top.
Nodules: Large lumps under your skin that are painful.
Cysts: Painful fluid-filled (pus) lumps under your skin.

Acne can be mild and cause a few occasional pimples or it can be moderate and cause inflammatory papules. Severe acne causes nodules and cysts.

What causes acne?

Clogged hair follicles or pores cause acne. Your hair follicles are small tubes that hold a strand of your hair. There are several glands that empty into your hair follicles. When too much material is inside your hair follicle, a clog occurs. Your pores can clog with:

Sebum: An oily substance that provides a protective barrier for your skin.
Bacteria: Small amounts of bacteria naturally live on your skin. If you have too much bacteria, it can clog your pores.
Dead skin cells: Your skin cells shed often to make room for more cells to grow. When your skin releases dead skin cells, they can get stuck in your hair follicles.

When your pores clog, substances plug up your hair follicle, creating a pimple. This triggers inflammation, which you feel as pain and swelling. You can also see inflammation through skin discoloration like redness around a pimple.

Triggers of acne

Certain things in your environment contribute to acne or they can make an acne breakout worse, including:

Wearing tight-fitting clothing and headgear, like hats and sports helmets.
Air pollution and certain weather conditions, especially high humidity.
Using oily or greasy personal care products, like heavy lotions and creams, or working in an area where you routinely come in contact with grease, such as working at a restaurant with frying oil.
Stress, which increases the hormone cortisol.
A side effect of a medication.
Picking at your acne.

Foods that cause acne

Some studies link particular foods and diets to acne, like:

Skim milk.
Whey protein.
Diets high in sugar.

While high-sugar diets may lead to acne outbreaks, chocolate isn’t directly linked to acne.

To reduce your risk of acne, choose to eat a balanced, nutritious diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, which helps reduce inflammation.

Hormones and acne

Acne is largely a hormonal condition that’s driven by androgen hormones (testosterone). This typically becomes active during teenage and young adult years. You might also notice acne forming around the time of your period as a result of hormone activity. Sensitivity to this hormone — combined with surface bacteria on your skin and substances released from your body’s glands — can result in acne.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is acne diagnosed?

A healthcare provider can diagnose acne during a skin exam. During this exam, the provider will closely look at your skin to learn more about your symptoms. In addition, they may also ask about risk factors for acne, like:

Are you feeling stressed?
Do you have a family history of acne?
If a woman or person AFAB, do you notice breakouts during your menstrual cycle?
What medications do you currently take?

Your healthcare provider won’t need to run any diagnostic tests for acne, but they may offer tests to diagnose any underlying conditions if you have sudden, severe acne outbreaks, especially if you’re an adult.

Who treats acne?

A general healthcare provider or a dermatologist can diagnose and treat acne. If you have stubborn acne that doesn’t improve with treatment, a dermatologist can help.

How severe can acne get?

Dermatologists rank acne by severity:

Grade 1 (mild): Mostly whiteheads and blackheads, with a few papules and pustules.
Grade 2 (moderate or pustular acne): Multiple papules and pustules, mostly on your face.
Grade 3 (moderately severe or nodulocystic acne): Numerous papules and pustules, along with occasionally inflamed nodules. Your back and chest may also be affected.
Grade 4 (severe nodulocystic acne): Numerous large, painful and inflamed pustules and nodules.

Management and Treatment

How is acne treated?

There are several ways to treat acne. Each type of treatment varies based on your age, the type of acne you have and the severity. A healthcare provider might recommend taking oral medications, using topical medications or using medicated therapies to treat your skin. The goal of acne treatment is to stop new pimples from forming and to heal the existing blemishes on your skin.

Topical acne medications

Your healthcare provider may recommend using a topical acne medication to treat your skin. You can rub these medications directly onto your skin as you would a lotion or a moisturizer. These could include products that contain one of the following ingredients:

Benzoyl peroxide: This is available as an over-the-counter product (such as Clearasil®, Stridex® and PanOxyl®) as a leave-on gel or wash. It targets surface bacteria, which often aggravates acne. Lower concentrations and wash formulations are less irritating to your skin.
Salicylic acid: This is available over the counter for acne as a cleanser or lotion. It helps remove the top layer of damaged skin. Salicylic acid dissolves dead skin cells to prevent your hair follicles from clogging.
Azelaic acid: This is a natural acid found in various grains such as barley, wheat and rye. It kills microorganisms on the skin and reduces swelling.
Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives): Retinol, such as Retin-A®, Tazorac® and Differin®, which is available without a prescription, breaks up blackheads and whiteheads and helps prevent clogged pores, the first signs of acne. Most people are candidates for retinoid therapy. These medications aren’t spot treatments and must be used on the entire area of skin affected by acne to prevent the formation of new pimples. You often need to use these for several months before noticing positive results.
Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics like clindamycin and erythromycin control surface bacteria that aggravate and cause acne. Antibiotics are more effective when combined with benzoyl peroxide.
Dapsone: Dapsone (Aczone®) is a topical gel, which also has antibacterial properties. It treats inflamed acne.

Oral acne medications

Oral acne medications are pills that you take by mouth to clear your acne. Types of oral acne medications could include:

Antibiotics: Antibiotics treat acne caused by bacteria. Common antibiotics for acne include tetracycline, minocycline and doxycycline. These are best for moderate to severe acne.
Isotretinoin (Amnesteem®, Claravis® and Sotret®): Isotretinoin is an oral retinoid. Isotretinoin shrinks the size of oil glands, which contributes to acne formation.
Contraceptives: The use of certain contraceptives can sometimes help women and people AFAB who have acne. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved several types of birth control pills for treating acne. Some brand names include Estrostep®, Beyaz®, Ortho Tri-Cyclen® and Yaz®. These pills contain a combination of estrogen (the primary AFAB sex hormone) and progesterone (a natural form of steroid that helps regulate menstruation).
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is helpful for some people with acne, especially if you experience acne flare-ups during menstruation or irregular periods caused by excess androgen (a hormone). Hormone therapy consists of low-dose estrogen and progesterone (birth control pills) or a medication called spironolactone that blocks the effect of certain hormones at the level of your hair follicles and oil glands.

Additional acne therapies

If topical or oral medications don’t work well for your acne or if you have scars from your acne, a healthcare provider may recommend different types of acne therapies to clear your skin, including:

Steroids: Steroids can treat severe acne with injections into large nodules to reduce inflammation.
Lasers: Lasers and light therapy treat acne scars. A laser delivers heat to the scarred collagen under your skin. This relies on your body’s wound-healing response to create new, healthy collagen, which encourages growth of new skin to replace it.
Chemical peels: This treatment uses special chemicals to remove the top layer of old skin. After removal of the top layer of skin, new skin grows in smoother and can lessen acne scars.

How do antibiotics treat acne?

Antibiotics are medications that target bacteria. Some used to treat acne also can decrease inflammation. Bacteria can clog your pores and cause acne. Antibiotics are responsible for:

Blocking bacteria from entering your body.
Destroying bacteria.
Preventing bacteria from multiplying.

A healthcare provider will recommend antibiotics if you have acne caused by bacteria or if you have an infection. Antibiotics get rid of an infection if bacteria gets into a popped pimple, which can swell and become painful. This medication isn’t a cure for acne and you shouldn’t take it long-term to treat acne.

How can I make my acne go away at home?

If you have acne, you can start an at-home skin care routine to help your acne go away by:

Washing your skin at least once daily with warm (not hot) water and a gentle cleanser. Cleansers are over-the-counter skin care products that help clean your skin.
Washing your skin after you exercise or sweat.
Avoid using skin care products with alcohol, astringents, toners and exfoliants, which can irritate your skin.
Removing your makeup at the end of the day or before you go to bed.
Choosing an oil-free moisturizer to apply on your skin after cleansing.
Avoid popping, picking or squeezing your acne. Let your skin heal naturally to prevent scars from forming on your skin.

If your at-home skin care routine isn’t effective at treating acne, visit a healthcare provider.

Is acne treatment safe for people who are pregnant?

Many topical and oral acne treatments aren’t safe to take during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, it’s important to discuss acne treatments with your healthcare provider and notify them if you become pregnant.

How long does it take for acne to go away?

On average, it can take between one to two weeks for acne pimples to clear up on their own. With medicated treatment and a good skin care routine, you can speed up your body’s healing time to make acne go away faster. For severe acne, it can take several weeks for your acne to go away, even with treatment.

Prevention

How can I prevent acne?

You can’t completely prevent acne, especially during hormone changes, but you can reduce your risk of developing acne by:

Washing your face daily with warm water and a facial cleanser.
Using an oil-free moisturizer.
Wearing “noncomedogenic” makeup products and removing makeup at the end of each day.
Keeping your hands away from your face.

Outlook / Prognosis

What can I expect if I have acne?

Acne often goes away in early adulthood, though some people will continue to experience acne throughout adulthood. Your healthcare provider or a board-certified dermatologist can help you manage this condition. Various medications and therapies are effective forms of treatment. They target the underlying factors that contribute to acne. It may take several different types of treatment before you and your healthcare provider find one that works best for your skin. The skin care products that work for you might not work for someone else with similar symptoms.

Can acne cause scars?

Yes, sometimes acne can cause scarring. This happens when the acne penetrates the top layer of your skin and damages deeper skin layers. Inflammation makes your acne pores swell and the pore walls start to breakdown, which causes skin damage. Scarring can be a source of anxiety, which is normal. Before treatment, your healthcare provider will determine what type of acne caused your scars. There are several treatment options available for acne scars.

How does acne affect my mental health?

Acne can cause disruptions in your mental health because it affects your appearance and self-esteem. Often, acne development is out of your control if hormones cause it. This can create stress, which can influence future breakouts. Acne can be challenging for teenagers and young adults. If your acne causes you to feel anxious or it prevents you from participating in social activities with your friends and family, talk to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional.

Living With

When should I see my healthcare provider?

Visit a healthcare provider as soon as you notice pimples so you can start treatment immediately before scarring occurs. If you’re using an acne treatment that isn’t working to clear your acne or it causes skin irritation like itchiness or skin discoloration, visit a provider.

What questions should I ask my doctor?

What type of acne do I have?
How severe is my acne?
Do I need to see a dermatologist?
What over-the-counter medications do you recommend?
What prescription medications do you recommend?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Acne is the most common of all skin conditions and it can have an impact on your mental health and self-esteem. If you have stubborn acne, visit a healthcare provider or a dermatologist to treat your acne. Sometimes, your acne needs a little extra help to go away with a medication if at-home skin care treatments don’t work. While it may be tempting, try not to pick at your acne or pop pimples to prevent scarring. Remember that acne is temporary and will go away with the right treatment designed for your skin.

Health

𝐁𝐢𝐠 𝐂𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐀𝐜𝐧𝐞 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬

February 4, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Cystic Acne

People with cystic acne develop pus-filled acne cysts (pimples) deep under the skin. The acne cysts are often painful and can be large. A dermatologist should treat cystic acne to reduce the risk of scarring and infection. Antibiotics and prescription-strength topical (skin) creams can help clear up your skin.

Overview

What is cystic acne?

Cystic acne is a type of inflammatory acne that causes painful, pus-filled pimples to form deep under the skin. Acne occurs when oil and dead skin cells clog skin pores.

With cystic acne, bacteria also gets into the pores, causing swelling or inflammation. Cystic acne is the most severe type of acne. Acne cysts are often painful and more likely to cause scarring.

What’s the difference between an acne cyst and an acne nodule?

Nodular acne and cystic acne are very similar. Both cause deep, painful bumps under the skin. And both can scar. Differences include:

Acne cysts are filled with pus, a fluid.
Acne nodules are more solid and harder than acne cysts because they don’t contain fluid.

Symptoms and Causes

What causes cystic acne?

Pores in the skin can clog with excess oil and dead skin cells, causing pimples. Bacteria can enter the skin pores and get trapped along with the oil and skin cells. The skin reaction causes swelling deep in the skin’s middle layer (the dermis). This infected, red, swollen lump is an acne cyst.

Cystic acne causes include:

Age (teenagers are more prone to cystic acne).
Family history of cystic acne.
Hormone changes during the teenage years and sometimes during menopause, and stress.

What does cystic acne look like?

Acne cysts resemble boils, a type of skin infection. An acne cyst may be:

A red lump under the skin.
Painful or tender to touch.
Small as a pea or big as a dime.
Oozing pus from a whitish-yellow head.
Crusty.

Where do acne cysts develop?

A cystic acne breakout may cover a large area of skin. Cystic acne tends to appear on the face, which has a lot of oil glands. But you can also get acne cysts on your:

Back.
Butt.
Chest.
Neck.
Shoulders.
Upper arms.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is cystic acne diagnosed?

A dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in skin conditions, can examine your skin and make a cystic acne diagnosis.

Management and Treatment

How is cystic acne managed or treated?

Acne cysts can be difficult to treat. Because they can scar, you should seek help from a dermatologist instead of trying over-the-counter acne products. A dermatologist can teach you how to treat cystic acne.

It can take three months or more to clear up acne cysts. Treatment often involves taking oral antibiotics and applying prescription-strength topical gels or creams to the skin.

Cystic acne treatments include:

Antibiotic creams, gels solutions and lotions to kill bacteria and decrease inflammation.
Azelaic acid (Azelex®, Finacea®) or salicylic acid to kill bacteria and get rid of excess dead skin cells.
Benzoyl peroxide to reduce the number of bacteria on the skin.
Retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene among others), vitamin A derivatives that help slough dead skin cells.

What are other cystic acne treatments?

Other treatments for cystic acne include:

Corticosteroid injections: Used to quickly shrink large, painful acne cysts.
Incision and draining: Helps to open up an acne cyst and drain the pus.
Birth control pill or spironolactone: Used by women to lower hormone levels that cause cystic acne.
Isotretinoin: An oral retinoid (most commonly called Accutane).

What are the complications of cystic acne?

Opening up acne cysts — by popping or picking them — increases the risk of scarring and bacterial skin infections like cellulitis.

Some people develop pigment changes (light or dark) spots at the site of the acne cyst after the skin clears up. These spots may be pink, purple, red, black or brown. They eventually fade away, but it may take more than a year.

Prevention

How can I prevent cystic acne?

You can lower your risk of getting acne by taking these steps:

Use a mild foaming facial cleanser, lukewarm water and your fingers (not a washcloth or sponge) to wash your face after you wake up, before going to bed and after exercising or sweating.
Apply oil-free moisturizer if you feel dry.
Use noncomedogenic (water-based) makeup and facial products.
Don’t sleep in makeup.
Keep your hands away from your face during the day.
Don’t pick at or pop pimples or scabs.
Wash your hair regularly and keep hair (which can be oily) away from your face.
Occasionally oily environments, such as working at a fast food restaurant, can contribute to acne flares.
Diets high in simple sugars and dairy, also called a high glycemic index diet, may contribute to flares as well.

Outlook / Prognosis

What is the prognosis (outlook) for people who have cystic acne?

Most people with cystic acne can prevent severe breakouts or quickly treat acne cysts to prevent scarring. Often, but not always, cystic acne clears up or diminishes with age, as hormones settle down.

Severe or untreated cystic acne can affect how you feel about your appearance, making you anxious or depressed. If cystic acne bothers you, talk with your healthcare provider about getting help with fostering a positive self-image.

Living With

When should I call the doctor?

You should call your healthcare provider if you experience:

Swollen, red, painful pimples.
Acne or scarring that makes you feel self-conscious.
Signs of a skin infection.

What questions should I ask my doctor?

You may want to ask your healthcare provider:

What causes cystic acne?
What is the best cystic acne treatment?
What are the treatment side effects?
How can I lower my chances of getting acne cysts?
How can I prevent scarring or other complications?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

It’s tempting to want to touch or pick at painful, swollen acne cysts. But cystic acne is more likely than other zits to scar or develop infections. A dermatologist can offer suggestions to prevent cystic acne. This doctor can also treat painful acne cysts, lowering the chances of scarring. Antibiotics and topical (skin) creams are effective cystic acne treatments.

Health

Chalazion surgery

February 3, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Chalazion Surgery: Everything You Need to Know

Chalazion surgery removes a small red bump that develops on the eyelid. The bump, chalazion, occurs when oil glands in the eyelid become blocked. Though a chalazion usually heals with medical care, your healthcare provider may recommend surgery if the bump persists for several months, enlarges, or affects your vision.

Man with chalazion on upper eyelid — Andrei310/Getty Images

When Will I Need Chalazion Surgery?

Your eyelids have 30-40 tiny glands (meibomian glands).1 These glands produce and release oils that are essential for healthy tears. If a gland is blocked (meibomian gland dysfunction), the oil backs up and thickens, forming a red, swollen area called a chalazion.

A chalazion most often occurs on the upper eyelid near the eyelashes. Over several days, the bump can enlarge to the size of a pea, but it’s usually painless.

An infection does not cause the blockage. However, your risk of developing a chalazion may be higher if you have viral conjunctivitis (pink eye), blepharitis, or certain skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.2

The swelling and redness usually improve within one month with nonsurgical treatments such as:34

Warm compresses
Gentle eyelid massages
Prescription steroid ointment
Steroid injections

A small, firm lump of oil may remain even after the redness and swelling improve. Chalazia also frequently recur.

When You Need Surgery

Your healthcare provider may recommend surgery when the chalazion:5

Doesn’t improve despite nonsurgical therapies
Becomes more swollen and painful
Enlarges enough to press against your eyeball
Causes blurry vision, watery eyes, or eye discomfort

Sometimes a chalazion can be confused with a stye. Chalazia are painless, not caused by an infection, and form in the eyelid. Styes are tender or painful, caused by an acute bacterial infection, and in the eyelid follicle near the eyelid’s edge.6

Surgical Procedure

Chalazion surgery is performed by an eye specialist, such as an ophthalmologist, optometrist, or oculoplastic surgeon. Oculoplastic surgeons specialize in plastic and reconstructive surgeries involving the eyelids and certain other parts of the face. Children and adults can have chalazion surgery.7

Contraindications

You may not be able to have chalazion surgery if the bump is too close to the opening in the corner of your eye (where tears drain) or you have an allergy to anesthesia.

Potential Risks

Chalazion surgery is generally a safe procedure. Though problems seldom occur, the potential risks include:8

Bleeding
Eyelid dimpling
Ingrown eyelashes
Loss of eyelashes
Unintended gland injury

How to Prepare

At your pre-operative appointment, your doctor will review the steps involved in your surgery, including the preparatory and recovery processes.9

What to Wear

Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes on the day of your surgery. You may want to wear a shirt or blouse that buttons or zips in the front so you don’t have to pull it over your head at the end of the day.

Avoid putting on makeup on the day of your chalazion surgery. If you usually wear contact lenses, wear glasses that day.

Food and Drink

If undergoing general anesthesia, avoid eating, or giving any food to your child, after midnight on the eve of surgery. Clear liquids may be allowed up to two hours prior to your scheduled arrival time.10

Medications

You may need to avoid some medications before chalazion surgery. For example, your healthcare provider may ask you to briefly stop taking medications that may increase the risk of bleeding, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Your healthcare provider will review your medications (prescription and over-the-counter), dietary supplements, and herbal medicines and let you know any changes you must make before your surgery.

What to Bring

On the day of surgery, bring your ID and insurance card. Also, bring along someone to drive you home after your procedure.

If your child is undergoing chalazion surgery, consider bringing their favorite stuffed animal or toy to help soothe them before and after the procedure.

Pre-Op Lifestyle Changes

For adults undergoing general anesthesia, stop smoking as soon as possible prior to surgery.

Surgery

Chalazion surgery is performed in an office, outpatient surgical center, or hospital. The last two locations are used when you need general anesthesia.

Young children often need general anesthesia. Your healthcare provider may give them a sedative to help them sleep before giving them anesthesia. As a result, they’ll be unaware of having the IV inserted.

For older children and adults, the surgery is usually performed with a local anesthetic. You may feel a brief pinch or stinging. After that, chalazion surgery is painless. You may feel pressure from the instruments used to remove the chalazion, but you won’t feel pain.

During the procedure, your healthcare provider makes a tiny incision in the eyelid, drains the fluids, and removes the material inside the chalazion with a surgical tool called a curette.

The incision usually goes underneath the eyelid, so you won’t have a visible scar. The procedure takes about 20 minutes and doesn’t require stitches. Your healthcare provider will apply an antibiotic ointment and a pressure patch.11

Recovery

If you had local anesthesia, you can go home right after the procedure. If you had local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, you will be taken to a recovery area. The healthcare team monitors you while you wake up. Once you are fully awake, you will be discharged with post-operative instructions.

You may need to take it easy the rest of the day after general anesthesia. Those who had local anesthesia should be able to return to most of their activities after leaving the office.

It’s typical to experience minor and temporary side effects such as slight discomfort, bruising, or swelling. Your healthcare provider will prescribe an antibiotic cream or eyedrops to use for a week after the procedure.

As you recover at home, your surgeon may advise:

Using cold compresses on your eye to reduce swelling
Taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) for any eyelid discomfort
Avoiding contact lenses, touching your eyes, and wearing eye makeup to help prevent infection
Avoiding heavy lifting, bending, and strenuous activity

Even though recovery from chalazion surgery is relatively short, your eyelid may remain slightly inflamed for several weeks.2 Your healthcare provider may schedule a follow-up appointment to make sure the blockage has resolved.

Prevention

For the long-term, you may be able to prevent new chalazia from forming.

Helpful habits to consider include:4

Adopting a daily eyelid-cleaning regimen: Use baby shampoo or pre-moistened eyelid cleansing pads to gently scrub your lid margin (where your eyelashes emerge).
Regularly applying warm compresses to prevent oil gland blockages (your healthcare provider will recommend a schedule)
Getting into the habit of washing your hands often, especially before touching your eyes
If you wear contact lenses, cleaning them properly and throwing disposable contacts away on schedule
If you wear makeup, replacing your eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara every couple of months and cleaning your eye makeup brushes with mild dish soap or baby shampoo every two weeks

In some instances, certain complementary therapies may be recommended to help combat eyelid inflammation, such as omega-3 supplements and/or flaxseed oil.7 Only use these treatments under the guidance of your doctor.

Summary

Your healthcare provider may recommend chalazion surgery when a bump (cyst) caused by a blocked oil gland in your eyelid (chalazion) doesn’t improve with medical care. You may also need surgery to remove a chalazion if it enlarges, affects your vision.

Chalazion surgery is an outpatient procedure for everyone except for young children. The procedure to drain the bump and remove the blockage only takes about 20 minutes and requires little downtime.

Health

Old Eye Blackheads

February 3, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

How To Get Rid of (and Prevent) Blackheads: 10 Solutions

Try exfoliating and using salicylic acid to treat this pesky skin care issue

Person washing cleasning product off of their face over wash basin in white bathroom.

Is there anything more annoying than seeing little black specks on your face?

We’ve all stood in front of the mirror and examined our pores from time to time, cursing our skin. But if the appearance of blackheads on your face really does bother you — rest assured, there are ways to get rid of them.

Dermatologist Alok Vij, MD, discusses how to get rid of blackheads and offers tips to prevent new ones from forming.

How to get rid of blackheads at home

“There are a few different ways we can attack blackheads,” says Dr. Vij. “But I do stress to be patient with your skin and that consistency is key. It took a while for your skin to get to this place and it will take a little while to get it back to where it was before.”

Learn how to remove blackheads with these tips:

Opt for salicylic acid

“My go-to treatment for blackheads is recommending a salicylic acid wash once a day,” he says. “There are even medicated face wipes that contain it.”

If you want to try salicylic acid, start off by using a product that contains between 2% and 4%. Then, you can modify the amount used by how your skin reacts. If it’s drying you out, opt to go down a bit.

Use an alpha or beta hydroxy acid cleanser

Alpha or beta hydroxy acid, also known as AHAs and BHAs, are a group of compounds known for its skin care benefits. Some of the most popular elements in this group include salicylic acid, lactic acid and citric acid.

Another great option for removing blackheads in the AHA family is using a product containing glycolic acid. Aim to use a cleanser with 10%. Glycolic acid serves as a great exfoliator, helping to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells — and those annoying blackheads.

Try a retinoid

“From a medical standpoint, I’ll typically prescribe a topical retinoid as treatment,” says Dr. Vij. “It’s good for making sure that the dead skin cells aren’t collecting inside the pores. It also helps to prevent outbreaks and reduces the formation of acne scars.”

Sometimes, it works to split treatment between a retinoid and an alpha or beta hydroxy acid. An example treatment could be using a salicylic acid cleanser in the morning and a retinoid at night.

Make sure you exfoliate

Exfoliation is an important part of every skin care routine — but it’s very easy to overdo.

“You should really only be exfoliating a couple times a week,” explains Dr. Vij. “Over-exfoliating your skin, especially your face, will dry it out very quickly.”

What’s worse? When your skin is dried out it produces more oil, which contributes to more blackheads. Your best bet is to keep exfoliating to a minimum.

Consider in-office treatments for stubborn blackheads

So, how do you get rid of stubborn blackheads? You may need the assistance of your dermatologist, who may recommend these in-office methods.

Chemical peels

Your dermatologist might suggest a chemical peel. This technique uses a chemical solution to remove your skin’s damaged outer layers. This can result in improved skin texture and smoothness.

But be aware — not all insurances cover these types of treatment.

And depending on whether you have a light, medium or deep chemical peel you may experience redness, stinging and swelling of your skin in the first 48 hours.

Microdermabrasion

Another treatment is microdermabrasion, which is also known as a “power peel.” Your skin is sprayed with tiny crystals to gently sand away your outer layer of skin.

The minimally invasive procedure improves the appearance of your skin. You may have mild side effects like redness, swelling and tenderness for a few hours after your treatment.

And like chemical peels, you may have to pay out-of-pocket for microdermabrasion.

Extraction

Sometimes, a good course of action for stubborn blackheads is by manual extraction, but it should always be kept in the hands of a professional.

Otherwise, you risk scarring your skin.

A professional — whether it’s a dermatologist or esthetician — may prep your skin with a light steam to expand your pores. Then, using a sterile metal tool called a comedone extractor, they’ll apply pressure to the blackhead to remove it from your pore.

Some professionals opt to use their fingers, which are typically covered in cotton, to perform the extraction.

Preventing blackheads

Your best defense against blackheads? Prevention. Here are some things you can do to help prevent or limit how many blackheads you get:

Don’t pick at your skin

While this is easier said than done, it’s vital.

Bacteria and oil are all over your hands, and anytime you touch or pick at your skin, you’re transferring it to your face. It can lead to increased inflammation and additional skin problems, including hyperpigmentation.

Picking at your skin can also cause permanent scarring. We know it’s hard, but try to resist.

Choose the right makeup and skin care products

If you’re serious about putting an end to pesky blackheads, be mindful about the products you put on your face.

Noncomedogenic makeup and skin products are specifically designed to not clog your pores. Using these types of products can help cut down on the number of blackheads you have. Dr. Vij also stresses the importance of using a facial moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30.

And try to avoid wearing oily and heavy products. A good rule of thumb is the thinner the product, the better. Anytime something is on your skin — even a moisturizer — it has the potential to clog your pores.

Tread lightly with pore strips and face masks

If you’ve been wondering how to get rid of blackheads on your nose, you may have turned to pore strips or skin care face masks.

Adhesive strips and skin care masks tend to have the immediate gratification that most people are looking for, but oftentimes, these products don’t solve the underlying skin issue at hand.

“Pore stripes use an adhesive to lift the congestion out of the pore, which can be helpful if you’re getting ready for an event. For example, a teenager who wants to get ready for prom,” notes Dr. Vij. “But it will really only temporarily clear your skin and can have some side effects such as excess irritation and dryness.”

So, while it’s good advice to tread lightly with pore strips and skin care masks, they can serve a purpose from time to time. If you’re a savvy skin care user, ask your dermatologist about what products they recommend. This way, you can minimize the risk of using a mask or strip that could potentially irritate your skin.

While blackheads can be annoying and even embarrassing there are ways to combat the skin care issue — and it’s key to find a solution that works best for you and your skin type.

“Every skin type is different and should be treated that way,” states Dr. Vij. “And part of my job is to help you figure out what combination of treatment works for your skin.”

Health

Ultra-Rare Condition With No Cure Treated With Revolutionary New Surgery | My Feet Are Killing Me

February 3, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

The biotherapy revolution

Gene, cellular and pharmacogenetic therapy: AFM-Telethon uses donations to develop new therapies for the most frequent rare diseases.

What are biotherapies?

Since traditional pharmacology gives no perspective on the rare genetic diseases long considered incurable, AFM-Telethon has for many years used Telethon donations to drive the development of innovative therapies derived from recent knowledge in genetics and cellular biology: namely biotherapies.

A biotherapy is a treatment using biological drugs or biotechnological drugs. There are several different types:

Gene therapy, which involves identifying a defective gene or reintroducing a functional gene into the body.
Cell therapy, which involves injecting a cell or a cell patch to repair organs and restore a function.

These new therapeutic strategies pave the way for treating common diseases. Medical research is moving forward.

Gene therapy: gene-drugs

Gene therapy is one of the preferred methods for treating genetic diseases but also certain cancers. It involves inserting into the patient’s cells a normal version of a gene that is not functioning and is causing the disease. The functional gene then enables the patient to again produce the protein whose deficiency was the source of the disease.

There are three conditions for success:

Know the gene responsible for the disease, i.e. the function of this gene, in order to be able to “repair” the cell.
Allow the gene to reach and enter the cell using a “vector”, most frequently a virus that is rendered harmless for the patient.
Combine the gene with a “promoter”, a small DNA sequence that lets it function once inside the cell.

A pioneer in gene therapy, AFM-Telethon has teams specialized in the design, development and production of these “drug-genes”, through its Genethon laboratory.

Cell therapy: cells to regenerate organs

Cell therapy involves grafting cells to repair or regenerate a damaged organ or tissue. Cell therapy uses three types of stem cells:

Stem cells known as “adult” are cells that are able to regenerate, such as those of the liver, the surface of the intestines and the muscles. They help to renew tissues. They can be taken from the patient, then cultured and reinjected, without risk of rejection. However, their ability to differentiate is limited and they are quite rare and difficult to isolate and culture.
So-called “embryonic” stem cells are found in the embryo when they are at the stage of a few cells. Easy to culture and able to proliferate infinitely, they can transform into any type of specialized cell: skin, muscle, intestine, vein, etc.
Since 2007, induced pluripotent stem cells (IPS cells) allow us to use adult stem cells to produce stem cells with the characteristics of embryonic stem cells. Several research programs are devoted to this field.

I-Stem, AFM-Telethon laboratory dedicated to stem cells, continues its work to develop treatments for rare monogenic diseases, using stem cells.

A cell therapy clinical trial for retinitis pigmentosa – STREAM – is ongoing with the Vision Institute in Paris. A second cell therapy program – PACE – for sickle cell ulcers is in the preclinical phase. In parallel, the collaborative MyoPharm program, launched by AFM-Telethon and I-Stem, involves testing a large number of existing pharmacological molecules on cellular models of rare pathologies (high-throughput screening) to identify those that could be effective for these diseases.

Biotherapies for the most common diseases

There are many bridges between research into diseases that are sometimes very rare as well as common diseases. The biotherapies currently being tested for rare diseases may affect many other diseases in the future.

Loyal to its public interest strategy, AFM-Telethon encourages the emergence of innovative therapies that create opportunities for medicine overall.

The first success of gene therapy for “bubble babies”, children without immune systems, helped to develop gene therapies (car-T cells) for various cancers (lymphoma, leukemia, myeloma).
Progeria, an ultra-rare disease characterized by premature ageing, shares mechanisms with physiological ageing and ageing induced by anti-cancer chemotherapy or anti-HIV tritherapies. The therapeutic options for progeria provide perspectives that affect the entire population.
Beta thalassemia, a rare genetic disease affecting the red blood cells, is due to the same gene as sickle-cell anemia, which affects a large proportion of the African, Afro-American, Mediterranean and Asian population. The gene therapy developed for thalassemia is today under trial for sickle-cell anemia.
The regenerative cell therapies used experimentally for treating the cardiac disease observed in many myopathies were very quickly extended to heart failure caused by infarction.
The cell patch developed by I-Stem in collaboration with Saint-Louis hospital in Paris, Quinze-Vingts hospital and the Vision Institute, to repair the retina in certain forms of retinitis pigmentosa, a rare disease of the vision, offers therapeutic hope for al diseases of the retina, whether they are rare and genetic, or common and related to ageing, such as age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) which affects over 1.5 million people.
Cell therapy for the skin considered for certain genetic diseases or for skin complications of genetic diseases is applicable to the treatment of chronic skin ulcers caused by type-II diabetes and serious venous insufficiency.

Health

The Very Itchy Ear

February 2, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

All About Itchy Ears: Why Do They Itch and How Do You Stop It?

Article by Hearing Partners, contributed by Jennifer Lee, Senior Clinical Audiologist at Hearing Partners

Are your ears constantly bothering you with incessant itching? If so, you’re not alone. Itchy ears are a bothersome and uncomfortable condition that affects many people.

In this article, we’ll delve into the causes of itchy ears and explore ways to alleviate the itch. We’ll also share some care tips and things to avoid when trying to relieve the itch. Read on to discover how you can find relief safely and effectively.

Causes of Itchy Ears
How to Stop Your Ears from Itching
What to Avoid When Trying to Relieve the Itch
FAQs About Itchy Ears

Causes of Itchy Ears

Understanding the reason behind the itch is key to resolving it. Here are some of the most common causes of this sensation.

Overcleaning of the ears

While cleaning your ears may provide temporary relief for the itch, overcleaning can expose you to more significant problems. Earwax plays a crucial role in protecting and waterproofing your ears. Excessive cleaning can remove the protective barrier created by the earwax, increasing your chances of an ear infection.

Moreover, inserting objects into your ear canal to clean or scratch it often worsens the situation by pushing the wax deeper inside. This can eventually lead to a buildup of earwax, causing pain, itchiness and unpleasant odours from your ear.

Using tools like bobby pins, paper clips, or even your fingers to dig your ears can also cause scratches on the delicate skin inside, creating an entry point for bacteria and increasing the risk of infection.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Itchy ears can often be caused by a condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. This particular type of rash primarily affects the sebaceous glands responsible for oil production. It’s not limited to the scalp and eyebrows but can also occur in the ears.

As you age, the likelihood of developing seborrheic dermatitis increases. In mild cases, the skin may flake, resembling dandruff, while more severe instances can result in redness and intense itching.

Ear infections

If your ears are itchy, it could be a sign of an ear infection. These infections are usually caused by bacteria or viruses and are often related to ear hygiene or allergies.

Overusing headphones and hearing aids or using dirty ones can cause itching and increase the chance of ear inflammation. The skin in the ear canal may be injured due to a large amount of friction from the earplugs. Additionally, failure to clean the earplugs regularly can lead to bacterial growth.

Long-term blockage of the ear canal will also cause moisture to accumulate in the ear, creating a good breeding ground for bacteria or fungi. This can turn into a specific type of ear infection called otitis externa or swimmer’s ear, which causes symptoms such as pain, itching, redness, and swelling. In rare cases, you may also have an allergic reaction to specific components of your hearing aid or earplugs, causing itching.

Itchy ears can also be caused by a fungal ear infection or otitis media, which affects the middle ear.

Skin conditions

Even the ear canal, including the area near the eardrum, can be susceptible to skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Eczema results in patches of the skin becoming red, itchy, and inflamed, while psoriasis manifests as a red, itchy rash on the skin.

Allergies

Itchy ears can be triggered by various types of allergies, from food to seasonal allergies and even contact dermatitis. For example, people who are allergic to pollen can react to pollen that penetrates the ear canal, and people who are allergic to certain fruits, vegetables, or nuts may also experience itchy ears if they consume these.

Additionally, certain skincare and hair products, as well as certain metals found in jewellery, particularly nickel, can cause skin irritation and contribute to ear itching.

How to Stop Your Ears from Itching

Itchy ears usually go away within a few days, especially if they’re mild. Depending on the cause of the itching, there may be some simple remedies that can be effective in addressing the issue.

For instance, if the itch is triggered by seasonal allergies, taking an antihistamine may relieve the symptoms. On the other hand, if the itching is caused by earwax or excessive cleaning, applying a drop or two of olive oil or ear drops may help.

If your condition is mild but does not improve after a few days, we recommend consulting your General Practitioner (GP) or family doctor. Using a tool known as an otoscope, they’ll examine the skin inside your ear and diagnose the underlying cause of the itch. If necessary, they may also remove earwax.

It’s crucial not to ignore any signs of drainage, unpleasant odour, ear pain, or noticeable inflammation. These symptoms may indicate an infection or a more serious problem, and it’s essential to seek professional help promptly. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital in such cases.

Speak to a hearing care professional today

Your ears play an important role in your daily life and should not be neglected. Speak to our hearing care professionals regarding your concerns today.

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What to Avoid When Trying to Relieve the Itch

Dealing with a constant itch in your ear can be uncomfortable, and you may be tempted to find quick ways to relieve the itch. However, it’s important to refrain from scratching your ear or attempting ear candling as these can harm your ears and lead to further complications.

Avoid scratching your ear

While it may seem like a quick fix, using your finger, a Q-tip, or a toothpick to scratch an itch is not a recommended solution. This seemingly innocent act can do more harm than good to your ears.

The delicate skin of your inner ear can easily be scratched, which may result in an ear infection. You may even damage your eardrum in the process. Thus, it’s best to avoid such practices and speak to a hearing care professional if you experience persistent itching in your ear.

Avoid ear candling

While ear candling is often marketed as an effective method for removing earwax, it isn’t backed by scientific evidence. In reality, the use of ear candles carries the risk of causing burns to the face and ears, puncturing the eardrum and obstructing the ear canal with candle wax.

Thus, it’s crucial to avoid resorting to ear candling as a solution to relieve ear itch, as it may lead to more severe consequences.

FAQs About Itchy Ears

Should I be worried about itchy ears?

In most cases, a slight itch is not a cause for concern as it usually resolves on its own over time. However, if the itch persists for a few days, or is accompanied by symptoms such as drainage or excessive bleeding, we recommend seeing a doctor as soon as possible.

Health

HOW TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS

February 2, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

HOW TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS:
THE SOLUTIONS TO TRUST AND THE PITFALLS TO AVOID

Blackheads or “open comedones” are blocked pores that may resemble tiny specks of dirt, but in fact are blocked pores where the mixture of sebum and cells has darkened in contact with the air. They appear most commonly on the nose and central part of the face. To treat blackheads:

• Look for products with salicylic acid. It’s your anti-blackhead saviour
• Still not satisfied? Never attempt a DIY blackhead extraction that can take a minor blackhead problem and turn it into a major breakout!
• See a dermatologist who can prescribe retinoids or perform mechanical extraction
• Don’t use harsh scrubs and astringents, which will only irritate your skin

• Avoid pore strips, especially if you have sensitive skin

WHAT ARE BLACKHEADS?

Blackheads: A symptom of acne

Acne blackheads are easy to spot on the skin. They are dark in colour and slightly raised. Unlike some other spots, they are not inflamed, so will not be painful if touched. Whilst they are a mild type of acne, blackheads can sometimes cause sufferers more stress than other spots due to their obvious colour and their general stubborn nature! Blackheads are mainly found on the central part of the face, but can also spring up on the back, chest, neck, arms and shoulders.

WHAT CAUSES BLACKHEADS?

Acne blackheads, another name for blocked pores

Blackheads are caused by clogged hair follicles. Follicles contain hair and a sebaceous gland, which produces sebum to help keep the skin soft. Dead skin cells and sebum collect and form a ‘plug’, which turns a blackish colour because it is in contact with outside air, which oxidises it, in the same way that cut fruit changes colour when left out in the air.

Blackheads are formed differently to other blemishes, rather than being a result of anything bacterial, they are simply a build-up of sebum. As a result, our bodies really couldn’t care less about them as they don’t threaten us in any way.

Your body might not see blackheads as a threat, but you may be feeling very concerned by these little black marks on your skin! Perhaps you even feel they affect your confidence and self esteem?

The good news is, it is totally possible to treat blackheads, it may just take a little longer than some other blemishes. Patience is paramount in blackhead eradicationt!

HOW TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS

Blackhead treatment and removal

When it comes to getting rid of blackheads, exfoliators with salicylic acid is your best friend. This gentle exfoliating acid will unclog your pores and also deal with the problem of dead cell build up by promoting healthy skin-cell turnover. Salicylic acid can be found in a range of products such as face washes, creams, and gels. Remember to always be gentle on your skin to avoid irritation and redness.

What to avoid when treating blackheads

Some products that claim to remove blackheads contain ingredients such as alcohol, menthol and eucalyptus. These harsh ingredients will not solve your blackhead problem and may stimulate excess sebum production (in other words, your skin will feel it’s under attack and fight back by producing even more grease!).
Though your skin may look “dirty,” don’t attack it with harsh scrubs. This will only cause irritation and redness… and again, they can actually make your skin oilier!
Many pore strip brands claim to unclog blackheads. In reality, they only remove the most superficial part of the clogged pore and can irritate sensitive skin.

TROUBLE GETTING RID OF BLACKHEADS?
CONSIDER SEEING A DERMATOLOGIST

If your nose is studded with blackheads, you might benefit from consulting a dermatologist who will prescribe suitable over the counter products such as salicylic acid treatments that you can buy in the pharmacy like – EFFACLAR Duo(+) – or prescription treatments such as retinoids (adapalene). In extreme cases, your dermatologist may perform clinical extraction using sterile tools.

But please leave this to the professionals as DIY extractions can transform a minor blackhead problem into a major breakout!