Introduction

The skin is the largest and the most exposed part of the body. It functions by protecting the internal organs by environmental debris, bacteria, and viruses. However, there are times when the skin itself gets infected. This can be due to bacteria, virus, or fungi. The symptoms caused by a viral skin infection ranges from mild to potentially serious.

While mild infections can be treated with over the counter medications, aggressive measures are needed to treat the more serious symptoms. A viral infection is caused when the skin gets infected by herpes zoster virus, chickenpox, warts, and measles. These infections require treatment and a consultation with a physician is required.

Dr. Rajeshwari’s Clinic provides the best consultation and treatment plan, and has successfully treated many patients with treatments as mentioned above with minimal to no side effects.

Causes

Some of the common viruses that affect the skin causing viral infections are poxvirus, HPV, and herpes virus. These viruses either get transmitted from an infected person or can infect the skin from the environment.

Symptoms

The primary presenting symptoms of a viral infection is the presence of a skin rash which will be red in color and can be itchy and painful. The area around the rash will be tender. In some cases, the rash will be filled with pus and will ooze fluid when popped or ruptured. In such instances, a consultation with a physician is recommended for treatment and preventing the infection from spreading.

A severe viral skin infection will cause

• Pus
• Blisters
• Skin breakdown
• Skin discoloration

How is Hair Loss Diagnosed?

For a definitive diagnosis of the cause of the Hair Loss, the physician will first take a detailed history of the patient, including personal and family history. Once history taking is done then certain investigative tests will be ordered to come to the bottom of the cause of the Hair Loss. These tests include:
Pull Test: This test involves pulling of a few strands of hair forcefully to check whether any hairs come out of their groove. This gives the physician an idea of whether the quality of hair of the patient is healthy and strong.
Skin Lesion KOH Test: This test involves scraping some samples from the scalp of the patient to observe the hair roots. This gives the physician an idea as to whether there is an infection responsible for Hair Loss.
Blood Test: These are done to identify any underlying medical condition like a thyroid disorder that may be responsible for Hair Loss in the patient.
Microscopy: This is done to observe the hair shaft and see whether there is any abnormality there that may be causing the Hair Loss.

Treatment

Minor viral infections go away themselves once the infection runs its course. This may take anywhere from a few days to maximum a week. In cases of a severe infection, antiviral medication will be required for treatment of the infection.

In case if an individual suspects that the infection is spreading or getting worse, then it is best to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of action for treatment of a Viral Infection.

Can Hair Loss be Prevented?

Hair Loss caused due to the normal process of aging cannot be prevented. However, steps can be taken to prevent loss and damage by avoiding chemical use in the hair like hair color and hair dyes. It is also recommended not to use hair dryers for long periods of time as it literally pulls the hair out from their shafts thereby damaging it. This makes the hair weak and brittle.
For healthy hair, it is always best to practice good hair hygiene by shampooing it regularly. Additionally, eating a diet rich in proteins, vitamin B, and iron is also quite effective in preventing hair loss. Keeping the thyroid levels under control and seeking immediate levels if diagnosed with an underactive or overactive thyroid is also recommended to prevent Hair Loss.