ICHTHYOSIS

Ichthyosis is a common skin disorder characterized by the formation of dry, fish-like scales on the skin's surface. The scales are small and polygonal in shape and may range from white to dirty gray to brown depending on the color of your skin. It is a genetic disorder that often begins in infancy or early childhood (usually before 4 years old), and disappears during the adult years, only to return much later.

It may also be associated with other skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis or Keratosis pilaris. Although most cases of Ichthyosis are mild, people with this discomfort experience much discomfort and have to spend a large portion of their time managing the symptoms.

The symptoms and signs of Ichthyosis include:

Dry, scaling and flaking skin that usually appears on elbows, lower legs, and shins

*  Deep, painful fissures in the palms and soles

*  Mild itchy skin

*  Scalp flaking

*  Body odor as a result spaces under and between skin flakes can harbor collections of bacteria of fungus

*  Wax buildup in ears

Diagnosing lchthyosis

Your doctor or dermatologist can diagnose Ichthyosis by examining your skin and the characteristic scales. Certain factors such as your family history history of ichthyosis, the age when it first started and the presence of other skin disorders are also taken into consideration. Other tests such as a skin biopsy where a small piece of skin is remove and examined under a microscope may also help to confirm the diagnosis.

Help for lchthyosis

The primary aim of treatment is to manage this condition by caring for the skin properly and consulting your dermatologist regularly. Medicines such as creams or lotions that contain alpha hydroxide acids (lactic and glycol) increase moisture, moisture, control scaling and promote shading may be prescribed.

Retinoids may also be prescribed in severe cases to reduce the protection of skin cells. If a skin infection or body odor develops, antibiotics can help but have some harsh side effects such as eye and lip inflammation, hair loss, bone spurs and birth defects during pregnancy.

Natural remedies

Herbal treatments and natural remedies are an excellent option for skin disorders. A combination of herbs and biochemic tissue salts supports skin health and functioning, and also promote cell renewal. Herbs such as Galium aperine (Cleavers ) and Trifolium pratense (red clover ) help the body to naturally purify and detoxify. Tissue salts such as Natrium muriaticum, Kalium muriaticum and Kalium sulphate help to maintain skin health and promote well-hydrated skin.