Submission Instructions:
- formatted and cited in the current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources within 5 years.
- You should respond to your peers by extending, refuting/correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts.
- Your response should be at least 150 words.
- All replies must be constructive and use literature where possible.
Reply to Lakesha
Question 1
Dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes irritation and inflammation. Various factors, including irritants and genetic predispositions, can cause it. Symptoms of dermatitis include redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes blisters or oozing. Identifying and avoiding the triggers that cause dermatitis before starting treatment is important. This may involve avoiding certain substances, making lifestyle changes, or using gentle skincare products. In more severe cases, prescribing antihistamines or corticosteroids may help to reduce itching and inflammation. Overall, treating dermatitis involves a combination of identifying triggers, taking preventive measures, and seeking medical attention when necessary. Because Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an inflammatory/allergic dermatitis that recurs frequently and causes persistent itching, rashes, inflammation, discharge, burning, and crusting. The illness may significantly reduce one’s quality of life (Hon et al., 2021).
Question 2
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments can help treat conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, by eradicating the infection. There are several options for experimental medicine. Ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, levofloxacin, polymyxin B sulfate-trimethoprim, gentamicin, and tobramycin are all good first broad-spectrum topical antibiotics. Although the aminoglycosides (gentamicin and tobramycin) may have weaker efficacy against specific Staphylococcal species and strains due to growing resistance, they still offer good coverage against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria (Kopke2023). Usually, these drugs are taken multiple times daily for a week. Even if symptoms improve, it’s crucial to stick to the instructions regarding treatment and keep taking the prescription. Antibiotics can also be used to treat Otitis Media, an ear infection. This medication can be consumed orally as liquids or pills. Advise patients that even if they feel better before completing the entire course of antibiotics. This guarantees the illness is eradicated and helps keep it from returning.
Question 3
Herpes virus infections can occur in a variety of body locations and are rather prevalent. Oral herpes (cold sores) and genital herpes are the most frequent kinds. Herpes labialis and genitalis are the most prevalent symptoms that indicate an HSV infection. Vesicular sores or ulcers may initially develop in the oro-facial and vaginal areas. These sores or ulcers may gradually dry out into crusts that can endure for up to 10–14 days (Sharma et al., 2023). Along with itching, burning, and pain, patients may observe blisters or ulcers in the affected area. A fever, headache, and enlarged lymph nodes are among the flu-like symptoms that some people also encounter. The intensity of the symptoms and the type of infection determine how to treat herpes. Antiviral drugs like valacyclovir and acyclovir can improve symptoms and reduce the length of outbreaks. To maximize its effectiveness, treatment should be initiated as soon as symptoms manifest. Patients should take medication as prescribed and maintain proper hygiene to prevent virus transmission. This includes regularly washing hands, using condoms during sex, and avoiding close contact with others during outbreaks. While treating and preventing herpes virus infections can help patients control their symptoms and stop the virus from spreading, the illnesses can still be difficult and undesirable.
Question 4
Cellulitis, folliculitis, and impetigo are the three most common primary bacterial skin infections. Impetigo is an infectious infection that can cause blisters or red sores on the body and face. Cellulitis, which affects the skin’s lower layers, can cause warmth, redness, and swelling. Folliculitis, a hair follicle infection, can cause red bumps or pus-filled pimples. Typically, antibiotics, either applied topically or taken orally, are the preferred treatment for these conditions. It is crucial to receive an accurate diagnosis and follow the recommended treatment plan. Sometimes, a healthcare professional may need to drain abscesses or infected areas. Proper skin care practices, not sharing personal items, and practicing good hygiene can help prevent bacterial skin infections. Proper education regarding infections is needed.
Reference
Hon, K. L., Chan, V. P., & Leung, A. K. (2021). Experimental drugs with the potential to treat atopic eczema. Journal of Experimental Pharmacology, 13, 487-498. https://doi.org/10.2147/jep.s259299Links to an external site.
Kopke, A. (2023). Treating bacterial conjunctivitis – a bird’s eye view. SA Pharmaceutical Journal Incorporating Pharmacy Management, 90(1), 14–17.
Sharma, D., Sharma, S., Akojwar, N., Dondulkar, A., Yenorkar, N., Pandita, D., Prasad, S. K., & Dhobi, M. (2023). An insight into current treatment strategies, their limitations, and ongoing developments in vaccine technologies against herpes simplex infections. Vaccines, 11(2), 206. https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11020206Links to an external site.
