Denver Dermatology Consultants

Skin Care News

Nov 15, 2010

Psoriasis More Than Skin Deep

Psoriasis More Than Skin Deep is a patient-oriented education event organized by the National Psoriasis Foundation.

There are a variety of free events offered throughout the country that provide the following:

• Tips for taking charge of your health care
• An update on the most promising drugs in development
• How you can help find a cure by participating in the Walk to Cure Psoriasis

See the list of psoriasis events through September.

Sleep Tight, Don't Let the Bedbugs Bites

Bed bugs have been getting alot of press lately as they make a resurgence into the beds and lives of Americans. In August of 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a joint statement on the importance of bedbug control.

These reddish-brown wingless insects have 3 pairs of legs are about 3-5 mm in size and big enough to see with the naked eye.

People react differently to bed bug bites. Most people experience some type of itching welt similar to a severe mosquito bite while some display no symptoms at all. Others can have severe allergic reactions that result in hives (urticaria) and asthma. The reaction depends on the individual's immune reaction to the bed bug's saliva.

Cold packs applied to the bites and antihistamines help relieve the discomfort. If the itch becomes unbearable or you see signs of infection, be sure to call your doctor. Signs of infection include tenderness around the bite and oozing of white, yellow, or green discharge from the wound.

Where can I learn more about bed bugs?

• Bed Bugs Update (American Academy of Dermatology)
• National Pest Management Association
• "They Crawl, They Bite, They Baffle Scientists" (New York Times / Science Times, August 30, 2010)

Rosacea Sufferers May Benefit From Physical Blocks in Sunscreens

Since sun exposure may lead to the development of rosacea, or a worsening of rosacea symptoms, it is important to implement effective sun avoidance measures and to regularly use a sunscreen.

When selecting a sunscreen, consider a "sunblock" or "physical sunscreen" that contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These reflect the sun's rays rather than absorbing them and tend to be better tolerated by sensitive skin.

September is National Alopecia Awareness Month.

Alopecia areata is a disease that results in areas of hair loss. It affects approximately 6,000,000 people in the U.S. and afflicts those of any age, from early childhood to the elderly. The National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) is a non-profit organization dedicated that supports research to find a cure or acceptable treatment for alopecia areata, supports those with the disease, and educates the public about alopecia areata. NAAF has worked to designate September as National Alopecia Awareness Month to help build awareness and understanding of this common, but often overlooked condition.

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©2010 Vivacare. Last updated September 14, 2010.

This information is for general educational uses only. It may not apply to you and your specific medical needs. This information should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation with or the advice of your physician or health care professional. Communicate promptly with your physician or other health care professional with any health-related questions or concerns.

Be sure to follow specific instructions given to you by your physician or health care professional.