Skin Viral Infections: Get the Facts | Swinyer Woseth Dermatology

Beautiful female medicine doctor with serious face examine patient. Medical care, illness diagnosing, physical, physician consultation, insurance concept. Dermatologist or oncologist examination

Skin infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Viral skin infections are rarer than bacterial or fungal injections, but they can be serious, and treatment by a dermatologist is usually necessary to control the symptoms and ensure you heal properly. Could you be experiencing a viral skin infection?

Cold Sores

One of the most common viral skin infections that dermatologists encounter is the herpes simplex I virus that causes cold sores. If you have been exposed to this virus, it will live in your body for life. Most of the time, it will not cause any symptoms, but when your immune system is weakened by another illness or stress, it can flare up and cause cold sores to form. Your dermatologist can offer treatments to control these breakouts when they occur, but it is best to contact him or her within 24 to 48 hours of the sores appearing for the best results.

Molluscum Contagiosum

This viral infection causes raised bumps on the skin that are often described as looking like pearls. They are usually painless, but they can be itchy and easily agitated. When an outbreak occurs, it usually lasts for about six to nine months, but sometimes, it can take a few years to clear up completely. Most cases occur in children and people with weakened immune systems.

Shingles

Chickenpox is a viral infection, and shingles—or herpes zoster—occurs when that virus is reactivated. With shingles, the skin develops painful blisters that are usually filled with pus. Shingles usually occur in people over the age of 50, but it can occur in younger patients occasionally. There is no cure for shingles, but your dermatologist can provide treatments to help control the symptoms.

Skin infections require fast treatment, so make an appointment with a dermatologist in Salt Lake City at Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology. If you need more information or want to schedule a consultation for a skin rash, dial 801-266-8841.