What is rosacea?

• Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that is characterized by small, red, pus filled bumps on the skin that are present during flare-ups. Rosacea may affect your nose, cheeks and forehead. 
• In rosacea, flare-ups often occur in cycles. It means that you can experience symptoms of rosacea for some weeks or months then after taking treatment symptoms will subside and then return. The exact cause of rosacea is still unknown yet and there is no permanent cure for this.

Types of rosacea

There mainly four subtypes of rosacea. Each subtype has its own symptoms. Sometimes more than one subtype of rosacea can be present in one patient at a time.

These four types of rosacea that include

1. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR), is associated with redness on face, flushing and visible blood vessels.
2. Papulopustular (or acne) rosacea is characterized by acne-like appearances on skin and commonly affects women in middle-age.
3. Rhinophyma, is a rare form of rosacea that is associated with thickening of the skin commonly on your nose. It affects men mostly and is often accompanied by other subtype of rosacea.
4. Ocular rosacea and its symptoms commonly affect the eye area.

Symptoms of rosacea

Symptoms of rosacea are different for each subtype.

Signs of rosacea ETR

• Flushing and redness on your face
• Visible broken blood vessels
• Swollen and sensitive skin
• Burning sensation on skin
• Dry, rough and scaly skin

Signs of acne rosacea

• Acne-like appearance and very red skin
• Sensitive and oily skin
• Broken blood vessels that are visible
• Formation of patches on skin that may be raised

Signs of thickening skin

• Thick skin on nose , chin, forehead, cheeks, and ears
• Bumpy skin texture
• Visible broken blood vessels
• Large pores

Signs of ocular rosacea

• Watery eyes
• Burning sensation in the eyes
• Cysts on eyes
• Dry, itchy eyes
• Diminished vision
• Eyes those are sensitive to light
• Broken blood vessels on eyelids

What causes rosacea?

The cause of rosacea is not known yet. It   may occur due to combination of hereditary and environmental factors. There are some factors that may trigger the condition and make symptoms worse. These include:

• Drinking hot coffee or tea frequently
• Taking spicy foods
• Consuming items that contain the compound cinnamaldehyde, that include citrus food items, tomatoes, cinnamon, chocolate
• Having infection of Helicobacter pylori

Risk factors for rosacea

There are some risk factors that will make you more prone   to develop rosacea than others. 

• Age – Rosacea commonly affect the age group of 30 and 50. 
• Sex– This condition is more commonly seen in women than men.
• Race – It is also more commonly affect the people who are fair-skinned and having blue eyes and blond hairs.
• Genetics – Genetic history may also play a role in causing   rosacea. You are more likely to develop rosacea if there is family history of the condition.

How to diagnose rosacea?

Your doctor can diagnose rosacea by doing physical examination of your skin. Other tests like blood investigations can help to exclude other conditions. Skin biopsy may help to confirm the diagnosis.

How can I control my symptoms?

Rosacea cannot be cured permanently, but you can follow some steps to manage your symptoms.

• Always use oil-free facial creams and moisturizers.
• Take care of your skin using cleansers and oil-free, water-based skin-care products.
• Avoid skin care products that contain:

1. Witch hazel
2. Alcohol
3. Menthol
4. Exfoliating agents

These ingredients may irritate your symptoms.

• Keep a check on the foods that you take and the cosmetics you apply on your skin. This will help you to figure out what triggers your symptoms.

Other management steps include:

• Avoid drinking alcohol
• Avoid direct contact with sunlight and apply sunscreen
• Use of lasers and light treatment should be done to help with some severe cases of rosacea
• Microdermabrasion treatments to reduce thickening skin
• Taking medicines for eye and antibiotics for ocular rosacea

Treatment options for rosacea

• Treatment for rosacea mainly focuses on controlling signs and symptoms. Most often this requires a combination of good skin care and prescription drugs.
• The duration treatment prescribed depends on the type and severity of your signs and symptoms. Reoccurrence of rosacea is common.

Medications used

Medication depends upon the signs and symptoms you’re experiencing. Your doctor may use different options or may prescribe combination of medicines to find a treatment that works for you.

• Topical use of drugs – To the treatment of mild to moderate cases of rosacea, your doctor may prescribe a cream or gel for local application to the affected skin. Oxymetazoline (Rhofade) , Brimonidine (Mirvaso) help in reduction of  flushing by constricting blood vessels. 
• Oral antibiotics – Oral antibiotic such as doxycycline (Oracea) are helpful to treat moderate to severe cases of rosacea with bumps and pimples.
• Oral acne drug – If severe rosacea doesn’t respond to other treatment options, then doctor may suggest isotretinoin (like Amnesteem, Claravis. Avoid use of this drug during pregnancy as it can cause serious birth defects.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy can be helpful to make enlarged blood vessels less visible. Because the laser targets visible veining on the skin.

Lifestyle changes for rosacea

In addition to these treatment options there are certain lifestyle changes that can be effective for managing your rosacea and avoiding rosacea’s most common triggers.

• Taking more anti-inflammatory foods such as kale, ginger, and avocados that are high in antioxidants and vitamins such as niacinamide are helpful
• Create a daily routine to manage your stress and anxiety that can trigger rosacea flare-ups.
• Wear sunscreen regularly whenever you go outside, to prevent rosacea flare-ups from sun exposure and UV rays.
• Avoid certain kind of medications, like topical steroids, vasodilators etc. that may increase the rosacea or lead to flushing.

Long-term outlook for rosacea

As symptoms of rosacea are seen differently in everyone, so it takes time to figure out how to manage the condition. The best way to manage this condition is to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan and follow his advice and avoid the trigger factors.

• Shingles is also known as herpes zoster. This type of viral infection is leads to a red skin rash that results in pain and burning. Shingles mostly appears as a stripe of blisters on one side of the body, mainly on the neck or face.
• Shingles is a viral infection in which a painful rash occur. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (that is the same virus that leads to chickenpox). Even after the full treatment of chickenpox when infection gets treated, this virus may live in nervous system for years before reactivating as shingles.
• In most of the cases of shingles usually clear up in 2-3 weeks. Shingles rarely seen in the same person if affected once.

Symptoms of shingles

The first symptoms of shingles that are seen in people are pain and burning. The pain is usually on the one side of the body. Then after rash appears. Color of the rash depends upon skin tone. The rash can be red, dark pink, dark brown or purplish. Rashes from shingle

• have fluid-filled blisters that may break easily
• having red patches
• can itch
• be on your face and ears

Shingles of the eye

• The rash of shingles can affect every part of the body but mainly it follows dermatomes. When shingles affects the eye then this is referred as ophthalmic herpes zoster or herpes zoster ophthalmicus.
• In ophthalmic herpes zoster, blistering rash may appear on your eyelids, forehead, and sometimes on the tip or side of your nose.

Patient may experience symptoms such as:

• Swelling and redness in the eyes
• Burning sensation or throbbing pain in the eye
• Redness and tearing
• Blurred vision
• Pain can persist in your eyes even after rash disappears due to nerve damage. The pain eventually gets better for most people.

Shingles of the eye can be responsible for the serious problems that include vision loss and permanent scarring in the cornea due to swelling if not treated well

Shingles on your back

• Shingles rashes oftenly affect the one side of your body; a stripe of blisters is noticed on one side of back or lower back.

Shingles on your buttocks

• Shingles rash also occur on your buttocks.  Rashes may occur on one buttock but not the other. Patient may experience symptoms like tingling sensation, itching or pain.

Shingles causes

• Shingles is infection that is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. If you’ve history of chickenpox in past, you can develop shingles when this virus reactivates in your body.

How contagious is shingles?

• Shingles is not contagious, but the virus varicella-zoster that causes it can be spread to one person to another who hasn’t had chickenpox, and they could develop the disease. You can’t get shingles from the person who suffered from shingles, but you can get chickenpox from that person.
• The varicella-zoster virus is not airborne. This cannot spread through coughing or sneezing or by sharing drinking glass or any utensils of affected persons.
• The virus spread when someone comes into contact with an oozing blister. If the blisters are covered or scab formation occurs then this condition is not contagious.

Shingles diagnosis

• Shingles can be diagnosed by doing physical examination of rashes and blisters. Medical history also plays a role in making diagnosis.
• In some cases, your doctor takes sample of your skin or the fluid from your blisters and tests.

Shingles treatment

There’s no cure for shingles, but treatment can help to prevent complications and better recovery. Doctor may prescribe medications to treat the symptoms and infection.

Medications

The medications that are usually prescribed may vary from person person , Commonly used medicines  include 

Shingles mostly clears up within a 2-3 weeks and rarely recurs. If symptoms have not decreased within 10 days, you should consult your doctor for a follow-up. 

Risk factors for shingles include:

• Emotional stress
• A weakened immune system
• Aging
• Undergoing cancer treatments or major surgery

Shingles home remedies

Home treatment can help ease your shingles symptoms. These remedies include

• Application of cold, wet compresses on the rash to reduce pain and itching
• Taking cool baths or showers to clean  your skin
• Applying calamine lotion to reduce itching
• Taking foods with:
• vitamin A
• vitamin B12
• vitamin C
• vitamin E
• Taking supplements that strengthen your immune system

Shingles complications

When symptoms of shingles are not managed well then these leads to many kind of complications. These complications include:

• Bacterial skin infections, that can occur from open blisters and can be severe.
• Eye damage, can occur if you have a rash or blister too close to your eye (the cornea is particularly vulnerable)
• Pneumonia
• In severe case brain or spinal cord inflammation can occur like encephalitis or meningitis, that are serious and life threatening

Preventing shingles

• Vaccines can help to keep you away from developing severe shingles symptoms or complications from shingles. So it is must for every child that he should receive two doses of the chickenpox vaccine, also known as a varicella immunization. 
• Adults who are 50 years or older than 50y, they should get a shingles vaccine, that is varicella-zoster immunization. This vaccine is helpful to prevent severe symptoms and complications that occur with shingles.

OVERVIEW:-

• There are Several types of rashes that affect various parts of a baby’s body.
• These rashes are typically very treatable. Most rashes are harmless and disappear with in few days.
• Sometimes, infant rashes can indicate a more serious disease.

SYMPTOMS:-

• Pimples, Baby acne usually involves clusters of tiny red pimples .
• Irritated cheeks. Baby acne usually develops on the cheeks, nose, forehead and sometimes behind the ears and on the scalp.
• Baby acne can appear up to three to four months.

CAUSE:-

Baby’s skin is sensitive and prone to many sources of irritation or infection. Causes of rashes in babies include:

• Heat
• Allergies
• Friction
• Dampness
• Chemicals
• Fragrances
• Fabrics

Depending on the cause of the rash, rashes may appear on:

• Face
• Neck
• Trunk
• Arms
• Legs
• Hands
• Feet
• Diaper area
• Skin folds

TYPES OF RASHES:-  

Most common types of infant skin rashes include:-

• Diaper rash:-It is caused by wetness or the acidity of a baby’s urine and stool.
• Drool rash:- which happens when drool irritates the skin around the mouth or on the chest.
• Eczema:- It occur on the face, behind the knees, and on the arms.
• Heat rash:- usually found in areas covered by clothes, such as neck, chest, arms, armpit and legs and is caused by overheating
• hives
• impetigo
• infectious rashes, such as measles, chickenpox, scarlet fever, and roseola
• miliamolluscum contagiosum
• Thrush

PREVENTION:-

• Start off by using a gentle baby detergent (low on chemicals) for all  baby’s clothes. These harsh products may lead rashes on  baby’s skin.
• While bathing  baby, use a mild, hypoallergenic cleanser instead of regular soap. Also, use warm water and avoid hot water.
• Change  baby’s diapers frequently. Overexposure to moisture, urine and stool  may lead rashes!
• Limit the consumption of acidic and citrus fruits. During breastfeeding, reduce the intake of tomatoes, oranges, and other citrus foods.
• To prevent intense heat baby rashes on face and other body parts.

HOME REMEDIES FOR RASHES IN CHILDEREN:-

• ALOE-VERA:-Extracting the gel out of the leaves and applying it directly on the affected areas. It is one of the most effective remedy.
• Oatmeal Blend:-Oatmeal is very high on antioxidants, hence, makes for an amazing home remedy for baby rashes on face or body. It give good result in this condition.
• Neem:-Neem’s antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties and also veru useful in baby’s rashes, especially eczema.  Make a paste  of the neem leaves and apply  on the affected areas. 
• Banana peels:-An extraordinary skin rash remedy, the miraculous healing properties of banana peels . It is very helpful in skin rash.
• Cucumber:-Particularly effective on baby rashes on the face, cucumbers are also loaded with anti-inflammatory properties. It will help reduce the itchiness and irritation. 

AYURVEDIC TREATMENT FOR BABY’S RASH:- 

• Ayurvedic management for rashes include internal and external medicinal to mother as well as baby.
• As vitiated breast milk can irritated baby’s stomach and result in rash.
• Ayurveda gives some simple diet and lifestyle recommendation to help prevent the condition.

DIET RECOMMENDATIONS (AAHAR):-

• Introduce new foods one by one so that an allergy can be detected early
• A healthy balanced diet for the breastfeeding mother is recommended.
• Mother should avoid spicy foods and other foods that can give her baby a diaper rash because of sensitivity or allergies.

 LIFESTYLE CHANGES (VIHAR):-

• Keeping diaper area clean and dry.
• Certain products, such as zinc oxide and petroleum jelly, work well to protect the skin from moisture. 
• Increasing airflow by opening the diaper region. 
• Avoiding airtight plastic pants and diaper covers
• Until the rash clears up, giving the baby a bath daily.
• Warm water is to be used with mild, fragrance-free soap
• Cocoa butter, coconut oil or olive oil massage can help to reduce the pain.

AYURVEDIC HERBS USED IN BABY’S RASH:-

• HALDI
• ALOE-VERA
• KESAR
• CHANDAN
• MANJISHTHA
• NEEM

DESCRIPTION

• Tinea corporis is a superficial fungal infection of the skin or superficial dermatophyte infection characterized by either inflammatory or non-inflammatory lesions on the skin.
• It can affect any part of the body excluding the hands and feet, scalp, face and beard, groin, and nails. 
• It is commonly called ringworm because it presents with characteristic ring-shaped lesions no worm is involved.
• It is usually an itchy, circular rash with clearer skin in the middle. 
• It is often usually spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal.
• Mild ringworm treat with topical application of antifungal medications. For more-severe infections people may need to take antifungal pills for several weeks.
  

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Signs and symptoms of ringworm may include:

• Scaly ring-shaped area present on the buttocks, trunk, arms and legs
• Itchiness
• A clear or scaly area inside the ring, 
• Slightly raised expanding rings
• A round, flat patch of itchy skin
• Overlapping rings
  

WHO GETS TINEA CORPORIS

Tinea corporis is found almost all parts of the world but particularly in hot humid climates. It is most commonly seen in children, young adults and all age groups can be infected including newborns.

Medical risk factors include:

• Previous or concurrent tinea infection
• Diabetes mellitus
• Immunodeficiency
• Hyperhidrosis
• Xerosis
• Ichthyosis.

Environmental risk factors include:

• Household crowding
• Infection of household members
• Keeping house pets
• Wearing occlusive clothing
• Recreational activities involving close contact with others including shared change rooms.

WHAT CAUSES TINEA CORPORIS

• It is predominantly caused by dermatophyte fungi of the genera Trichophyton and Microsporum.
• The anthropophilic species Tinea rubrum is the most common causative agent of tinea corporis worldwide.

Other species that may cause tinea corporis include:

• Tinea interdigitale
• Tinea tonsurans 
• Microsporum canis (cats, dogs) 
• Other zoonotic species including Tinea verrucosum (cattle), Tinea equinum (horses) and Tinea erinacei (hedgehogs).
• Tinea corporis infection is spread by the shedding fungal spores from infected skin to healthy person. 
• Transmission is facilitated by a warm, moist environment or sharing of fomites including bedding, towels, and clothing. 
• Dermatophyte infection on the skin such as tinea pedis can also be transferred. 
• The incubation period is 1–3 weeks.
  

RISK FACTORS

• Live in a warm climate
• Close contact with an infected person or animal
• Share things of infected person such as cloth, bedding or towels.
• Skin-to-skin contact in sports such as wrestling
• Wear tight or restrictive clothing
• Weak immune system.
  

DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF TINEA CORPORIS INCLUDES

• Pityriasis rosea
• Drug eruptions
• Nummular dermatitis
• Erythema multiforme
• Tinea versicolor
• Erythrasma
• Psoriasis
• Secondary syphilis.
• Discoid eczema
• Pityriasis rosea herald patch
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis.
  

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR TINEA CORPORIS

General measures

• Skin should be kept clean and dried thoroughly. 
• Wearing loose light clothing in hot humid climates. 
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals 
• Avoid sharing of fomites. 
• Examination of Household members and pets for the source of infection and required treatment to reduces the risk of re-occurance of infection. 

Specific measures

• Localised tinea corporis infection may treat with topical antifungal medications such as imidazoles and terbinafine. 
• If tinea corporis is involving a hair-bearing site oral antifungal treatment is usually required.
• Systemic therapy with oral agents are terbinafine and itraconazole for majocchi granuloma and tinea imbricate.
  

CAC TREATMENT FOR TINEA CORPORIS

• Detox Premium Powder – This is a herbo-mineral preparation that contains ingredients like Parwal Pishti, Giloy satv, Shukta Pishti, Kamdudha Ras, Gandhak Rasayan, etc.

1. Parwal Pishti: This Pishti reduces inflammation, flaking, itching of the skin. The Pishti is composed of natural coral calcium processed with rose water.
2. Shukta Pishti: It helps to balance the Pitta dosha in the body. All signs and symptoms related to Psoriasis patients are managed with this article.
3. Giloy Satv: This satv is prepared from the herb Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia). The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties of this herb deal with psoriasis easily.
4. Kamdudha Ras: This herbal-mineral classical preparation balances Pitta dosha in the body.
5. Gandhak Rasayana: This herbal preparation is used since ancient times for all types of skin disorders.
6. Tal Sindoor: It contains ingredients like Shuddh parad, Aloe vera, Gandhak, etc that relieve redness in psoriasis patients.
7. Akik Pishti: This Pishti reduces all types of Pitta related disorder hence it gives good results in psoriasis.
   Recommended Dosage – Take 1 sachet twice daily with plain water.
   

• Blood Purifier Syrup – It is ayurvedic syrup that consists of various natural ingredients such as Khadir Chall (Acacia catechu), Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Harad (Terminalia bellirica), Baheda (Terminalia chebula), Amla (Emblica officinalis), etc. As the syrup purifies the blood by removing excess toxins it is very beneficial in maintaining proper circulation and improves the skin naturally.
  Recommended Dosage – Take 2 teaspoonful twice daily.
  

• Twak Tailam – Twak tailam is very effective for the skin as it deeply nourishes the tissues and improves the skin luster. The tailam is composed of yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), etc. The tailam supports skin health, helps in reducing uneven pigments, improves complexion, and helps in deep detoxification and blood purification without any side effects.
  Method of Application – Apply over the affected area of the skin.
  

• Skin care tablet – skin care tablet is a pure ayurvedic formulation. It help to maintain the texture of your skin depending on the type of skin you have. It contains various herbs like Haridra khand, Panchnimb churna, Khadir chahal, Chirayta, Mulethi, Chopchini, Gandhak, Ajmoda that work very effectively on all skin types. Skin care is a blood purifying tablet. It cools and detoxifies the blood, increase blood circulation of the skin. It minimizes the blemishes, lighten sun tan, delay ageing of skin and heal skin problems.
  Recommended Dosage – Take 1 tablet twice daily.
  

• Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu – Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu is an ayurvedic preparation mainly used for skin diseases. This tablet contains pure herbal ingredients such as Nimba(Azadirachta indica), Patola(Cucumis acutangulus), Guduchi(Tinospora cordifolia), Vasa(Adhatoda vasica), etc. This tablet promotes detoxification and rejuvenation. Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu tablet is a natural source of anti – oxidant. It promotes engender vibrant and healthy skin.
  Recommended Dosage –Take 1 tablets twice a day with normal water.
  

• Panchsakar Churna – Panchsakar Churna is an ayurvedic formulation that consists of five ingredients named as – Saindhav Lavana (Rock Salt), Swarnapatri (Cassia angustifolia), Shatapushpa (Anethum sowa), Shunti – (Zingiber officinale), Balaharitaki  (Unripe fruits of Terminalia chebula). Panchsakar Churna is naturally detoxifying, thus it removes the toxins from the body. It relieves inflammation and useful in all types of skin problems.The powder has an anti – inflammatory properties due to which it can reduces the swelling.
  Recommended Dosage – Take 1 teaspoonful with lukewarm water at bedtime.
  

• Neem soap – Neem soap is natural and herbal handmade soap prepared from the standard extract of herb Neem (Azadirachta indica). Neem herb is widely used to cure acute to chronic Skin problems such as Pimples, Itching, Dryness, Blemishes, Dark spots, Pigmentation, Scars etc. It is such a wonderful herb that is easily available and shows Anti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Anti-microbial, Antifungal, Antiseptic properties. Neem cleanses the pores and protects the skin from various infections, Psoriasis, Eczema, Leprosy, Skin ulcers. It restores the health of damaged skin, tones skin complexion, prevents premature ageing, Wrinkles, Fine lines can protect against UV rays, and acts as a natural moisturizer for the skin.
  Method of Application – Neem Soap can be regularly used on face and body, as a bath soap.
  

• Trikatu Tablet – Trikatu Tablet helps to eliminate excess Kapha or mucous from the body, supports respiratory system, manages weight, helps to take out impurities or ama from the body, supports healthy detoxification, reduces swelling. It shows anti-inflammatory, analgesic, expectorant, antioxidant properties. This tablet is made up of equal parts of three herbs such as Pippali (Piper longum), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), & Marich (Piper nigrum) that maintains the metabolism in the body.
  Recommended dosage – Take 1 tablet twice daily with normal water.

• Inflammation of the blood vessels is known as vasculitis. Due to the inflammation the walls of the blood vessels become thick, that reduces the width of the passageway through the vessel. Due to the restricted blood flow there can be organ and tissue damage.
• Vasculitis can affect anyone, though some types are more common among certain age groups. Most of the types need medications to control the inflammation and prevent flare-ups.
• Vasculitis is of many types and most of them are rare. Vasculitis may affect just one organ, or several organs. The condition can be occur for short period or for long term.

Symptoms of vasculitis

General signs and symptoms that are noticed in people may include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Generalized weakness
• Fatigue 
• Weight loss
• General aches and pains

Other signs and symptoms that are related to the other affected body parts include:

• Lungs – Shortness of breath or even blood in cough may be noticed if vasculitis affects lungs.
• Digestive system– If stomach or intestines are affected with vasculitis, one may have pain after eating. If ulcers and perforations are there that may result blood in the stool.
• Hands or feet– Some types of vasculitis can leads to pain, numbness or weakness in a hand or foot. Sometimes swelling can also be seen on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
• Ears- Ringing in the ears and abrupt hearing loss may occur.
• Eyes- Vasculitis can cause redness, itching and burning sensation in the eyes. Giant cell arteritis can cause double vision and temporary or permanent blindness in one or both eyes. 
• Skin- Bleeding under the skin can be visible as red spots. Vasculitis can lead to open sores or lumps on your skin.

Causes of Vasculitis

The exact cause of vasculitis is not fully known yet. Some types are related with genetic history of pateint. In some cases history of autoimmune disorders is also found . Trigger factors for this immune system reaction include:

• Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and scleroderma
• Reactions to certain drugs
• Infections, such as hepatitis B and hepatitis C
• Blood cancer

Risk factors

Vasculitis can occur in anyone. Factors that may increase the risk of vasculitis   include:

• Age – Giant cell arteritis mostly occurs after the age of 50y, while Kawasaki disease is mostly seen in children younger than 5 years old.
• Family history – Some types of vasculitis run in families like Behcet’s disease, granulomatosis with polyangiitis and Kawasaki disease.
• Lifestyle changes – Taking cocaine can increase the risk of developing vasculitis. Tobacco smoking, especially in the age of lower than 45y, can increase risk of Buerger’s disease.
• Medications – Use of some medications can also trigger the condition. These medications include hydralazine, allopurinol, minocycline and propylthiouracil.
• Infections – Having hepatitis B or C can be a risk factor for vasculitis.
• Immune disorders– People who are suffering with autoimmune disorders may be at higher risk of developing vasculitis. Examples include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma.
• Sex – Giant cell arteritis is more commonly seen in women; on the other hand Buerger’s disease is more common in men.

Complications

Complications of vasculitis depends on the type and severity of your condition Or they may occur as side effects of the prescribed medications that you are using to treat the condition. Complications of vasculitis include:

• Infections – Medications that are used to treat vasculitis may weak the immune system. This can make you more prone to infections.
• Organ damage – Some types of vasculitis are severe, can lead to damage to major organs.
• Vision loss or blindness – This can be complication of untreated giant cell arteritis.
• Blood clots and aneurysms – Blood clot formation may occur in a blood vessel,that obstructs blood flow. Sometimes, vasculitis cause weakening of  blood vessel results in forming an aneurysm.

Diagnosis Of the vasculitis

Diagnosis can be made by taking complete medical history and performing a physical examination. There are one or more diagnostic tests and procedures are performed to diagnose vasculitis and to rule out other conditions. Tests and procedures may include:

• Blood tests– Blood investigation are important part of diagnosis. Investigations like CBC, CRP Give the basic idea of the condition. Blood tests for certain antibodies — such as the anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) test — can be helpful to diagnose vasculitis.
• Imaging techniques are helpful to determine about the conditions of blood vessels and organs that are affected. These imaging tests for vasculitis include X-rays, ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET).
• Biopsy – Biopsy is helpful to confirm the diagnosis.This is a surgical procedure in which a small sample of tissue from the affected area of your body is removed. 

Other imaging techniques involves

• CT scan
• MRI
• Ultrasound

Treatment options for vasculitis

Treatment mainly focuses on controlling the inflammation and managing other conditions that are triggering the vasculitis.

Medications

• Use of corticosteroids like prednislone, that is common drug prescribed to control the inflammation associated with vasculitis.
• But there are many side effects of corticosteroids which can be severe, especially after long term use. Side effects may include weight gain, diabetes and weakened bones. 
• Other medications can also be used with corticosteroids to control the inflammation for quicker results. The medications used to treat vasculitis  depends upon the type of vasculitis. These medications may include mycophenolate (CellCept), tocilizumab (Actemra) or rituximab (Rituxan), methotrexate (Trexall), azathioprine (Imuran, Azasan), cyclophosphamide

Surgery

Sometimes, vasculitis causes an aneurysm — that may require surgery to reduce the risk of it rupturing. Blocked arteries may require surgical treatment to restore blood flow to the affected area

Ayurvedic treatment for Vasculitis

In Modern science, use of medicinal as well as surgical treatment may not give permanent treatment but in Ayurveda you can get the permanent cure from this condition. So you should start treatment with Ayurveda that will deal with the root cause of disease. Chandigarh Ayurved Centre provides Combination of medications for the natural and safe treatment of vasculitis that are

1. Detox Premium Sachet
2. Makar Rasayan Tablet
3. Pain O Kill Syrup
4. Nerve up Tablets
5. Trikatu tablet

These are the medicine that can be used in the patient of vasculitis to give permanent treatment.

For more details you can visit our website

www.chandigarhayurvedcentre.com

• Tinea manuum is the fungal infection of hands. The word tinnea means ringworm and mannum is for hands, so basically tinea manuum is the ringworm of hands. When this kind of infection occurs on feet then this is known as tinea pedis.
• In Tinea manuum (ringworm of the hands) red and scaly rash occur which have a raised border. These rashes begin as a pruritic, circular or oval, erythematous patch or plaque with some scaling.
• Body parts that can get affected  with tinea or ringworm. Those parts include: hands, feet, groin, scalp, beard ,toe nails and finger nails
• This is a contagious condition. This rash spreads outwards and having a flat center appearance and healthy skin is surrounded by raised border. This further results in the occurrence of ring-shaped rashes sometimes which can combine. Pus-filled bumps may also be noticed sometimes. 

Causes Of tinea manuum

Tinea manuum is caused by a dermatophyte infection that is one kind of fungi. Infection is usually spread through direct contact with the causative organism.

Any individual can be affected by this common condition. There is a greater prevalence in the following individuals:

• Past dermatophyte infections
• Those that use public showers
• Those who sweat excessively
• Those that frequently engage in gardening and yard work
• Those who handle or are around animals frequently
• Those who play sports in which there is close contact with skin

There are number of causes for tinea. 

• As tinea is contagious condition , so one can easily get it by making contact with the skin of someone with the fungus. 
• This infection can spread from some animals, including dogs, cats, cows, and hedgehogs. 
• One can even get tinea from contaminated soil. 
• Wearing tight cloths or shoes, especially on sweating, can make you more prone to tinea.

Symptoms

Symptoms of tinea manuum that are commonly noticed in patients include

• The infection normally start small and gradually become larger over time.
• The infection starts from the palm of the hand and may spread to fingers and the back of hand.
• The area affected with this infection have itchy, red, and scaly appearance.
• The infected area may also peel and flake.
• Tinea manuum usually occur on one hand and both feet. Depending on the type of fungus that is causing the tinea, there may also blister formation that contain a clear liquid.

How is it diagnosed?

This condition is diagnosed by using several different methods. 

• Mainly involved taking history of patient and doing examination.
• Examination of scales from the infected area under a microscope is done to diagnose tinea. 
• This condition is also examined by taking a culture of a sample of the infected skin. 

Treatment of   tinea manuum

• Tinea mannum is treated by using a number of OTC topical medications. These medications include miconazole (Lotrimin), terbinafine (Lamisil), and others. 
• When this infection is not get treated by topical medications and in severe cases oral medications are also prescribed.
• This condition generally gets resolved after 3-4 weeks of treatment. But in people with a weakened immune system or medical conditions such as diabetes, tinea manuum will take longer to resolve.

Other treatment Options

• Use of Topical keratolytics such as salicylic acid combined with antifungal treatment in those with hyperkeratotic tinea manuum
• Burow’s wet dressings (1% aluminum acetate or 5% aluminum subacetate) may be applied for 20 minutes 2-3 times a day.

Differential diagnose of Tinea manuum

Hand dermatitis: This condition affects both hands and is more  itchier than Tinea Manuum.

Psoriasis: In this there is occurrence of red patches on skin. These patches are silvery and but do not have an annular (ring-like) appearance.

Exfoliative Keratolysis: This condition mainly affects the palms of your hands and produces blisters that peel.

Preventative measures

As this condition can easily spread so it is very important to follow some recommendations to avoid any kind of infection or to limit the spread:

• Do not share your cloths, sports equipment, or towels with others.
• Avoid taking showers at public places like gym, local pool, or other public areas.
• Keep your body clean. Use soap and shampoo after any sport involving skin-to-skin contact.
• Always dry yourself completely after bathing. Keep skin clean and dry. 
• Avoid contact with animals. Take your pet to the vet if you notices any patches of missing hair or a rash. That may be a sign of a tinea infection.
• Consult with doctor if anyone in your family has fungal infection.

AYURVEDIC TREATMENT OF TINEA MANNUM

Chandigarh Ayurved centre provides effective Ayurvedic treatment of this skin condition. CAC provides a kit named ‘Fungal care kit’. This kit contains medications that are very effective to treat any kind of fungal infection.

Description of medicines

1. Detox Premium Powder:

Detox premium powder is a very effective ayurvedic medicine to cure blemishes as it purifies the whole body by removing excess toxins from the body. The powder is composed of shukta pishti, giloy satv, gandhak rasayan, moti pishti, akik pishti, shankh bhasma, etc. The ingredient reduces all the signs and symptoms associated with the blemishes.

2. Twak Churana:

This herbal powder is prepared from two herbs Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) & Chopchini (Smilax malabarica) that in combination reduces uneven pigmentation. Manjishtha mainly helps in deep detoxification and blood purification. It can also be used for hand lotion to treat dry, cracked hands, or feet. This herbal powder is good for dry skin, rashes, acne. This powder is used in infectious conditions like, eczema, pimples, and chronic skin disorders.

3. Twak Tailam:

Twak tailam is very effective for the skin as it deeply nourishes the tissues and improves the skin luster. The tailam is composed of yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), etc. The tailam supports skin health, helps in reducing uneven pigments, improves complexion, and helps in deep detoxification and blood purification without any side effects.

4. Skin care tablet:

Skin care tablet is a pure ayurvedic formulation. It help to maintain the texture of your skin depending on the type of skin you have. Skin care is a blood purifying tablet. It cools and detoxifies the blood, increase blood circulation of the skin. 

5. Itch Care Tablet:

Itching is related to various skin problems like dermatitis, fungal infection or irritates such as nickel in jewelry, infected cut. Chronic skin condition like psoriasis, acne and due to internal conditions like blood, lungs and liver. 

6. Handmade Neem Soap:

Neem leaves are rich in Vitamin-E, Fatty acids & emollients. It is such a wonderful herb that is easily available and shows Anti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Anti-microbial, Antifungal, Antiseptic properties. Neem cleanses the pores and protects the skin from various infections, Psoriasis, Eczema etc.

• A skin ulcer is an open sore or wound. Any kind of Injury, blood circulation disorders, and prolonged pressure can cause skin ulcers.
• Skin ulcers can affect any area of the body. Most commonly seen on the legs, feet, mouth, back and hips.
• A small, uninfected wound do not cause much problems and heals with home remedies.
• On the other side, medical treatment is required for deep or infected wounds. If treatment is delayed then it can cause potentially fatal complications, especially if the infection has spread to the bloodstream.

Is it contagious?

Skin ulcers and secondary bacterial infections are not contagious. However, bacteria that cause secondary infections, such as bone infections may sometimes spread from one person to another.

Symptoms of skin ulcers

The symptoms of skin ulcers vary widely depending on the type and severity of the wound. Symptoms that are commonly noticed in people include:

• Skin discoloration
• Itchy skin
• Crusty dark brown covering on the wound
• Swelling around the wound
• Flakes around the wound
• Pain or tenderness in the nearby areas
• Watery, bloody, or pus-filled wound drainage
• A foul-smell from wound
• Fever may be present

If a patient presents with foul smelling wound, having pain, high fever, and wound drainage that will indicate an infection. If the wound lasts for more than 3 weeks is almost always infected.

Skin ulcers types

There are mainly four types of skin ulcers. Each one has different causative factor and different symptoms. Skin ulcer types include:

Decubitus (pressure) ulcers

• Decubitus ulcers are caused due to continuous pressure or friction on the skin parts.  They’re also known as pressure ulcers and pressure sores.
• These ulcers are usually seen on bony areas, because the bones place extra pressure on the skin.
• Common areas that include pressure ulcers are back, hips, buttocks, ankles, heels.

Venous skin ulcers

• Venous skin ulcers are caused due to poor or low blood circulation in the leg veins. They usually found on the legs between the knee and ankle.
• About 80 to 90 percent of all leg ulcers are venous leg ulcers.

Arterial skin ulcers

• Arterial ulcers occur when poor blood flow is caused by blocked arteries. 
• These are commonly found on the lower leg, heels, toes, and feet. These ulcers are usually painful.

Neuropathic skin ulcers

• Neuropathic ulcers are caused when there is nerve damage and narrow arteries. They’re also called diabetic foot ulcers.
• There is no pain in these ulcers because of nerve damage.

Risk Factors Include

Certain factors that can increase the risk of getting a skin ulcer. These are :

• Age. With increased age blood vessels become narrow and due to this blood accumulation occurs in the legs. These factors can increase the risk of skin ulcers.
• Limited movement. Many kind of medical conditions like Joint problems, paralysis, leg injuries and being bedridden cause pressure on the skin that leads to skin ulcers.
• Obesity. Obesity is also one of the factors that can cause skin ulcers as extra weight   increases pressure on the leg veins. Besides, the excess weight can problems with blood flow.
• Smoking. Tobacco smoking hardens blood vessels and causes poor blood flow.
• High blood pressure. High blood pressure gradually damages the blood vessels. This causes problems with blood flow.
• High levels of fat in the bloodstream. Having high levels of fat in the bloodstream cause narrowing of the blood vessels that leads to obstruction in blood vessels.
• Blood clotting disorders. Blood clots that form when the blood is flowing through the body disrupt proper blood flow.

Diagnosis of skin ulcers

Diagnosis is important to treat the condition properly. Several investigations are helpful to diagnose your sore. These may include:

• Medical history. History will help to better understand your symptoms.
• Physical examination. By examining the size and depth of sore and look for blood, fluid, or pus type of sore can be determined.
• Blood test. Blood investigations are helpful to know about the underlying problems.
• Tissue or fluid culture. This is important to know about the type of bacteria is causing your infection.
• Imaging techniques. An X-ray, CT scan, or MRI helps your doctor look at the tissue and bone under the sore.

Treatment options

The primary goal of any skin ulcer treatment is to heal the wound. In any case, treatments aim to reduce pain and swelling, prevent complications, and relieve psychological issues.

• Cleaning and dressing 

Cleansing includes the removal of dead tissue from the wound that is the first step to healing. Then dressing is done, which protects the wound. Some dressings may contain antimicrobial agents that help prevent infection.

• Antibiotics 

Topical antibiotics are used as the primary treatment for skin ulcers. They are applied in the form of gels, ointments and creams. 

Oral antibiotics – If there is not any improvement with topical antibiotics or in severe cases oral antibiotics are provided. 

• Pain  medications

Pain medications are needed in case of severe pain.

• Surgery

When other treatments fail or not any kind of improvement is seen then surgery is prescribed by doctor. In patients with leg ulcer due to defective veins, surgery may be done to remove the veins from the legs.

Some home remedies that can be used for treating miner skin ulcers.

• These include wash the wound with saline solution, use of compression socks.
• Leg elevation is helpful to help blood flow out of your leg.
• Application of turmeric paste or honey to the wound.
• Lifestyle changes that may speed up recovery include quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and staying active.

Ayurvedic treatment for Skin Ulcers

In Modern science, use of medicinal as well as surgical treatment may not give permanent treatment but in Ayurveda you can get the permanent cure from these kinds of conditions. So you should start treatment with Ayurveda natural herbs that will deal with the root cause of disease. Chandigarh Ayurved Centre provides Combination of medications for the natural and safe treatment of skin ulcers are

Medicines used are 

• Detox premium powder
• Curcumin capsule 
• Trikatu syrup
• Skin care tablet
• Nerve up tablet
• Twak tail

For more details you can visit our website 

www.chandigarhayurvedcentre.com

• Whenever the skin gets damaged, there is possibility of scar formation at skin. Any kind of injury, burn, trauma can leads to scarring of skin. Scars develop in all shapes and sizes. 
• When this scar forms as a result of surgery then this is known as surgical scar. As in surgery incision requires cutting through all of the layers of the skin. As a result of this, surgery leads to scar formation.

Signs of a scar

A Scar is usually pink or red in starting. Over time, the scar becomes slightly darker or lighter than the color of the skin. In dark skin people, scars often appear as dark spots. 

A scar’s appearance depends on many factors, Like:

• Any kind of Injury or event like surgery, a burn or severe acne.
• Size, severity and location of the wound.
• Treatment you received for the wound, such as stitches or bandages.
• Your age, genes, ethnicity and overall health.

How Does Scarring Happen?

• Scarring is the part of the healing process after an injury. Its appearance and its treatment depends many factors like cause of scar, the depth and size of wound or cut, location of injury also the age, sex of individual also matters.
• Skill of surgeon also influences the degree of scarring. When Surgery is performed by a less skilled surgeon then it may cause greater degree of scarring. 

Risk Factors for Scarring

• Age factor

With increasing age, skin becomes thinner and less elastic this is because collagen that reduces with increasing age. Therefore, skin does not heal as well or as quickly with age.

Other factors that make scarring more likely to occur with age include:

• Sun exposure
• Smoking
• Pollutants

• Race

Some races are more prone to develop scar. How light or dark scar appear depends on your skin color. For example:

Light skin: Scars appears close to surrounding skin color and often fade away with time.

Dark skin: In darker skin people scars are usually darker than the surrounding tissue.

• Size and Depth of Your Incision

The deeper and longer the incision or cut, longer will be healing process, hence chances of scarring are high. 

• Healing process of skin

Sometimes slow-healing process of skin which can be due to any medical condition like diabetes can be the reason of scar formation.

Preventive measures

There are some factors which can be controlled and may help you prevent scars. Like follow the instructions that are given by surgeon after surgery. Others factors are 

• Avoid Smoking

Smoking not only increase the risk of scars, but it also affect the healing process. That’s why surgeons usually advise to quit smoking for at least two weeks before surgery.

• Stay Hydrated

Not taking enough fluids leads to dehydration that can cause electrolyte imbalances and heart problems. It also affects the healing process.

So, stay hydrated to feel good and for suitable environment for healing. 

• Improve Nutrition

Proteins are the building blocks of healing skin. Therefore, it is important to take protein in adequate amount for your body to allow your skin to heal. So always take a balanced diet.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight can be a great risk of scarring. Excessive fat under your skin can work against your surgeon’s best efforts to close your incision seamlessly.

• Manage Chronic Illness

Diabetes and many other illnesses can slow healing. So should be managed with proper medical care.

Incision care includes:

• Take proper Rest

Patient should take proper rest after surgery for proper recovery.  

• Perform proper wound care

Do not use of any kind of ointments and other remedies for application on scars unless your doctor prescribes them and follows other general incision care methods for fast healing without scars.

• Identify infection quickly

If you notice any kind of infection,  then immediately proper treatment should be follow. An infection can seriously affect the healing process and contribute to scarring.

• Avoid pressure on your incision

Avoid doing extra work like lifting, bending, or doing anything that stretches or puts stress on your incision, including driving. 

• Avoid exposure to sunlight

Surgical Scar Treatments

• Silicone Wound Treatment

Silicone wound dressings are similar to a thick plastic wrap that are used in the kitchen. There are many ways to apply silicone dressings like:

• Silicone sheets: These are applied directly to the wound and stay there.
• Silicone gel: This is for local use as these are applied over the scar and is left dry in place.

In many studies it has been proven that silicone is helpful to reduce scarring, and commonly prescribed by doctors after surgery. 

• Incision Placement

In some surgeries, surgeon can modify incision placement to reduce scar visibility.

• Use Medications

When scarring area is large, your surgeon may prescribe cleansers, ointments as wound care routine for minimal chances of scarring .

• Massage 

Scar tissue massage is also useful and prescribed by doctors.  Physical therapists typically perform this type of massage. But it should be performed carefully after wound heals properly.

The Final word

Scarring after surgery varies from person to person and other factors also For eg., one person may have a procedure and have no scarring after procedure while another may have a noticeable scar for same procedure.

Scarring after surgical incision is inevitable in some cases. But, with the help of preventive measures and avoiding risk factors one can reduce the visibility of scarring. In addition to this, post-surgical care must be taken that will contribute to a scar that heals optimally.