Dictionary of pathologies
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis affects 15 to 20% of infants. This form of eczema appears generally three to six months after birth. It is accompanied by redness, itching and dry skin. In some cases, there may be oozing and scabs may appear.
Less commonly, atopic dermatitis can also affect adults.
In case of atopic dermatitis, aggressive cleansers should be avoided and soap-free bar or foam cleansers used. Following washing, the skin should be patted dry and a soothing cream applied. You should consult a physician.
Cystitis
Cystitis is a bladder inflammation that affects primarily women. This inflammation is caused by bacteria which ascend the ureter to the bladder.
During a cystitis attack, you should drink large quantities of water in order to wash out the urinary tract. For feminine hygiene, you should use a cleanser that calms the irritation. If symptoms persist, you should consult a physician.
Diaper rash
Diaper rash is an inflammation of the skin of the buttocks which is very common in babies, because their skin is in contact with wet diapers.
In case of diaper rash, diapers should be changed often (at least eight times a day) to keep the buttocks as clean and dry as possible. You should also use a cream that absorbs dampness, protects the skin from the diaper and soothes the irritation. If symptoms persist, you should consult a physician.
Intertrigo
Intertrigo is an inflammation of the folds of skin (armpits, groin, navel, under the breasts, the separation of the buttocks) caused by excessive perspiration. Diaper rash is a form of intertrigo.
In case of intertrigo, you should use a cream which absorbs dampness, protects the skin and soothes irritations. You should consult a physician.
Leucorrhea (vaginal discharge)
Leucorrhea is a thick, whitish vaginal discharge. These secretions of the vaginal mucosa and cervical mucus are normal. If you find your discharge unpleasant, you can use mild feminine wipes to freshen up and clean yourself gently at any time.
When discharge becomes excessive, yellowish or gives off a foul odour, it can be a sign of a bacterial, fungal or parasitic vaginal infection. In this case, you must consult a physician.
Menopause
Menopause is a period during which the ovaries no longer secrete enough sexual hormones. This period occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and results in the ending of the menstrual cycle.
For hormonal reasons, menopausal women often experience vaginal dryness. It is important that you use an appropriate gentle cleanser and that you do not wash more than twice a day.
Mycosis
Mycosis is an infection caused by funghi or yeast. A number of factors can contribute to the development of vaginal mycoses: the contraceptive pill and progestin treatments, antibiotics, overly frequent douching, synthetic undergarments, tight trousers, etc.
In case of a mycosis, you should use an alkaline cleanser to reduce the proliferation of the funghi in addition to the treatment prescribed by your doctor. If symptoms persist, you should consult a physician.
Pruritus (itching)
Pruritus is intense itching. If it persists, pruritus can lead to lesions caused by scratching.
There are many causes of pruritus: inflammatory skin diseases, dermatologic lesions, etc.
In case of pruritus, you should use a softening and calming cream. If symptoms persist, you should consult a physician.
Vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness can be caused by stress, poor life hygiene (alcohol or tobacco abuse), medications or certain contraceptive pills. The intense hormonal variations occurring during menopause are also one of the major causes of vaginal dryness.
In case of vaginal dryness, use a mild cleanser for washing, wash the genital area no more than twice a day, and use a soothing cream. We also recommend you consult a physician.
Varicella
Varicella (chickenpox) is the most contagious of childhood diseases. Caused by the herpes virus, it appears primarily between the ages of three months and ten years.
To provide relief from itching caused by chickenpox, the child should take a hot bath with a softening and soothing cleanser, then a soothing cream should be applied to the dried skin. We also recommend you consult a physician.
Vulvovaginitis
Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation of the vulva and the vagina. It is the most common cause of vulvar itching in women. It can be accompanied by whitish discharge and pain during sexual intercourse.
Causes of vulvovaginits include microbial fungal or parasitic infections.
In case of vulvovaginitis, you should use a soothing alkaline cleanser to reduce the proliferation of fungus. You should consult a physician.
