Any abnormality on your skin can cause distress and concern. Especially if it is unsightly and painful. There is a multitude of different things can cause issues on the skin. In this article we will be looking at the facts and differences between folliculitis and herpes. Both are very different from each other, let’s explore why!
Important Folliculitis Facts
1. Basics
Folliculitis is a very common condition of the skin that causes hair follicles to become inflamed. It can be caused by many different things including shaving or a bacterial infection.
2. Symptoms
The symptoms of folliculitis vary with the specific cause of the problem. Some common signs include small red bumps, inflamed skin, tenderness, and pus filled blisters. Other and more severe symptoms which may indicate a severe infection are fever, headache and fatigue.
3. Types
There is many different types of folliculitis that a person can suffer from.
Bacterial:most commonly affects a man’s beard and is caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
Pityrosporum:this is most common in teenage and adult men and is caused by a yeast infection.
Gram-Negative:this type of folliculitis is caused by long term antibiotic use for acne. An overgrowth of bacteria is the result.
Eosinophilic: this type is most common in people with HIV or AIDS and is recurring.
4. Causes
Follicle damage that causes folliculitis can be caused by a number of different things. Overly tight clothing and friction on the skin, skin conditions, scrapes, and heat can all cause folliculitis. The most common bacteria attributed to this condition is Staphylococcus aureus. Certain fungi and viruses can also cause folliculitis.
5. Treatment
Treatments for folliculitis depends on the cause and severity of the infection. Creams to reduce inflammation and itching are commonly prescribed. Antibiotics may also be used to treat the infection at it’s root. In some severe cases minor surgery or light therapy may be necessary.
Herpes Information
1. Basics
Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is caused by the herpes simplex virus. It is a very common and incurable disease that affects one in twenty adults. It is also very contagious and causes some painful and uncomfortable symptoms.
2. Symptoms
The symptoms of herpes are blisters around the infected area. Three separate areas of the genital region can be affected by herpes, the genitals, the mouth (oral), and the anal area. Pain during urination, severe itching, and swelling are also all common symptoms. Herpes occur in “outbreaks”. This means that symptoms may appear and then clear up, but will re appear again. The first outbreak is usually the most severe.
3. Treatment
The treatment of herpes is focused on managing symptoms and shortening the time that outbreaks last. Prescription creams are often used to reduce itching and redness. Other creams and oral medicines are used to lengthen time between outbreaks and to help the sores heal faster.
4. Cause
Herpes is contracted by having unprotected sexual contact with a person who already has the disease. It is highly contagious and incurable. The best way to prevent contracting herpes is to practice safe sex at all times.
Differences Between Folliculitis and Herpes
1. Cause
Herpes is caused by the simplex herpes virus and is contracted through sexual contact. Folliculitis can be caused by a number of things including bacteria. Herpes is highly contagious and folliculitis is not contagious at all.
2. Treatment
The treatment of each of these conditions are very different. Herpes treatments, because it is not curable, are creams focused on lessening the pain of symptoms. Folliculitis is very effectively treated with antibiotics.
3. Symptoms
The symptoms of folliculitis include red bumps and some skin inflammation which is typically not serious. Herpes causes sores and blisters on the genital area as well as painful urination.
4. Location
The location of the body that is affected by these two conditions are also quite different. Folliculitis can appear anywhere on the body. Herpes is limited to the genital and oral areas.