SKIN PROBLEMS IN MONSOONS

Introduction

After the blazing heat of summer, the monsoon brings much-needed relief. However, the shift in temperature and humidity gives rise to allergies and skin problems.

Skin problems in the rainy season are among the most prevalent issues that people face in the season. People with sensitive skin are likely to suffer the most with increased complaints of itchy skin. The rise in pollen and dust in the air is the primary cause of these skin problems. Most of these issues are not life-threatening; nevertheless, denial to visit a doctor/dermatologist at the right time might increase the severity. 

Why do skin problems happen in monsoons? 

Our skin texture fluctuates during the monsoon from oily to dry, as the atmosphere's moisture levels shift drastically during this time. Your skin will be prone to excessive oil and perspiration as during this time the atmosphere becomes overly humid. This oil in the pores attracts the dust, filth, and germs that are present in the air. This generally shows the emergence of blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples as a result. Therefore, it is better to care for those who have oily skin. 

On the other hand, the skin also becomes dry because of dehydration due to high water content loss in the form of sweat. Those suffering from hyperhidrosis (extreme sweating problem) need to be vigilant to prevent body odor. If not taken care of, it can also harm your skin.
Since moisture fosters the growth of different bacteria and fungi, it can cause many bacteria and fungi to grow on your skin, due to wearing wet clothes or shoes for a long time, and therefore it leads to several skin issues.

Common skin diseases people suffer from in rains

Some of the common skin problems faced by people are:

- Fungal infections

Fungal infections may affect everyone and may occur in many areas of the body. Just a few examples are a jock with an athlete's foot, a newborn with thrush, and a woman with a vaginal yeast infection.

Fungal infections may occur in many forms of fungus. In certain situations, it can be colonized and caused by fungi that are normally not present within or on your body. In other situations, fungi that usually occur on or within your body might grow and create an infection and worsen the symptoms.

Infections due to fungus can be infectious also. It can spread from person to person. In certain situations, sick people/animals or polluted soil or surfaces can catch disease-causing fungus very easily.

- Eczema

The disorder that causes your skin to be red and itching is called atopic dermatitis (also known as Eczema). In youngsters, it is frequent, although it may happen at any age. Atopic dermatitis is chronic (long-lasting) and tends to worsen regularly. Asthma or hay fever might be associated with it.

For atopic dermatitis, no cure has been identified. However, medications such as eczema cream and self-care can alleviate irritation and prevent future breakouts. It can be prevented by avoiding strong soaps, frequently moisturizing your skin, and applying medicinal lotions or ointments. 

- Scabies

Scabies is a human itch mite infection of the skin. In the top layer of the skin, the tiny scabies mite burrows the egg and lies inside the skin. Intense itching and a skin rash with pimples are the most frequent signs of scabies. Scabies spread with a person with skin sickness and is generally transferred by direct or prolonged skin-to-skin contact.

In crowded situations where intimate contact between body and skin is common, scabies can spread fast. Try not to be in such a condition where you can have such close contact with other people such as at rallies, festival marches, or any other public gatherings. Learn more about scabies treatment from our wellness experts.

- Worms 

Ringworm is a fungal skin disease, which is also known as dermatophytosis, dermatophytic infection, or tinea. It is a misnomer as it causes the infection by a fungus, not a worm. As the name indicates, the lesion caused by this illness resembles a worm and hence it is named Ring Worm.

Ringworm infections can damage humans and animals. Initially, the infection manifests as red patches on afflicted skin regions and might spread to other body parts. The skin, feet, nails, neck, beard, and other regions may be affected

Ringworms in the groin area are called tinea cruris and for other body parts, it is called tinea corporis.

- Athlete's Foot

The athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a common fungal infection between the toes. It often happens in persons with highly sweaty feet confined to tight-fitting shoes. A scaly rash that generally produces prickles, stinging, and burning is part of an athlete's foot signs and symptoms. The foot of an athlete is infectious and can be transmitted through contaminated flooring, clothing, and towels. The athlete's foot is strongly associated with other fungal diseases, such as ringworm and jock itch. Antifungal medicine can be used on a stand-alone basis, although typically the infection is repetitive. 

Prevention

Taking appropriate preventative actions if you are affected with such skin problems can assist to control the spread of or reduce the symptoms of the disease. Some of the frequent measures mentioned include:

1. Use wet wipes on the affected area.

2. Preventing bad personal habits such as smoking, consuming alcohol, etc.

3. Take a bath every day. However, in winter, take a bath with warm water rather than hot boiling water.

4. Wash the sweaty clothing, towels, headbands, and caps before wearing them again next time.

5. Maintain moisture of the skin of the afflicted region by using moisturizers 

6. Avoid extended exposure to sunlight.

7. Use of allergy/infection control medicines.

8. Try to use non-comedogenic products (that are oil-free and won’t clog pores), to apply to your skin.

9. Wear soft, loose-fitting cotton clothes.

10. Create a good personal habit of changing your sweaty clothes immediately after the workout or any exercise.
 

Stay away from seasonal skin problems by following the simple tips by our Wellness experts. Know more about Eczema Treatment, Scabies Treatment, Fungal Nail Infection, and Fungal Infection On the Skin from our Wellness Experts. 

Remember, prevention is better than cure. However, if you face skin problems in the rainy season, get immediate treatment and medicines. Your wellness is your prized possession.