Question 1

I've been on steroids long-term. Can I take Korean herbal medicine concurrently?

Accepted Answer

Yes, concurrent treatment is essential. Sudden discontinuation can lead to a rebound phenomenon, so it's necessary to gradually taper off while enhancing immunity with Korean herbal medicine.

Question 2

Why does atopic dermatitis itch more at night?

Accepted Answer

At night, the anti-inflammatory hormone cortisol decreases and body temperature rises, worsening itching. Managing your sleep environment is important.

Question 3

Can I use wet wraps when there is exudate?

Accepted Answer

When weeping is severe, wet dressing therapy, which involves applying a wet gauze, is highly effective in cooling the affected area and preventing secondary infection.

Question 4

Why won't dyshidrosis (blisters on hands and feet) heal?

Accepted Answer

Dyshidrosis is caused by peripheral circulatory disorder and stress, not merely a simple skin problem. It is necessary to normalize the sweat excretion function in the hands and feet.

Question 5

Why does coin-shaped eczema (nummular eczema) occur?

Accepted Answer

Nummular eczema is an intractable form of eczema that arises from impaired toxin elimination, characterized by significant oozing and very severe itching.

Question 6

Is it bad to apply too much moisturizer?

Accepted Answer

Excessive use of moisturizers can impair the skin's natural ability to produce sebum. Depending on your skin condition, "Moisturizer Withdrawal" may be necessary.

Question 7

Do laundry detergents or fabric softeners worsen atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Residual detergents and artificial fragrances are major causes of skin irritation. Use eco-friendly detergents and add an extra rinse.

Question 8

Should eczema patients avoid sweating?

Accepted Answer

Sweat is a pathway for expelling toxins, but if it remains on the skin for too long, it can cause irritation. After exercise, immediately rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Question 9

I'm concerned that my child with severe atopic dermatitis won't grow tall.

Accepted Answer

Sleep loss due to itching and prolonged steroid use can stunt growth. Proactive early treatment is necessary.

Question 10

Eggs, milk... Is food allergy testing really necessary?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 30% of pediatric atopic dermatitis cases are food-related, but this percentage is low for adults. Even if a test result is positive, it's permissible to eat the food if you don't experience actual symptoms.

Question 11

I never had atopic dermatitis as a child, but it suddenly developed as an adult.

Accepted Answer

The primary cause of adult atopic dermatitis is an acquired immune imbalance resulting from stress, overwork, and changes in dietary habits. Lifestyle modification is essential, beyond mere skin care.

Question 12

My skin has become dark and discolored from scratching due to atopic dermatitis.

Accepted Answer

These are post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and lichenification (skin thickening). Stopping the scratching, along with moisturizing and circulation-improving treatments, can gradually fade them.

Question 13

Can I take atopic dermatitis medication while pregnant?

Accepted Answer

We only select and use herbal medicines and external applications that are safe for the fetus. It is advisable to promptly manage itching to prevent the mother's discomfort from affecting the baby.

Question 14

Does taking probiotics cure atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Probiotics are merely a supplementary measure to support gut immunity, not a treatment. If intestinal inflammation (leaky gut) is severe, even probiotics will struggle to be effective.

Question 15

I have nipple eczema, and the weeping won't stop.

Accepted Answer

Nipple eczema is often caused by digestive disorders and stress. It is urgent to reduce friction from underwear and apply wet dressing treatment to absorb the exudate.

Question 16

My hand eczema keeps recurring even after applying medication.

Accepted Answer

It's due to the continuous exposure to water and detergents when the skin barrier is compromised. To restore the barrier, meticulous lifestyle management is required alongside Bohyeol (blood-tonifying) therapy.

Question 17

My skin behind my ear is cracked and weeping (auricular eczema).

Accepted Answer

This is a classic symptom of eczema. As the ear is a site where heat readily accumulates, treatment to reduce upper body heat is necessary.

Question 18

My groin is so itchy that I can't sleep (Jock Itch)

Accepted Answer

You must differentiate between fungal infections (tinea) and simple eczema. If it is eczema, it will heal by wearing breathable underwear and removing damp-heat.

Question 19

How is Psoriasis different from simple dry skin?

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, not merely dry skin. It is characterized by the thick accumulation of silvery-white scales on well-demarcated red patches.

Question 20

Psoriasis developed on the site of an injury (Koebner phenomenon)

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis patients have sensitive skin, which can lead to the "Koebner phenomenon"—the development of new psoriasis lesions at sites of injury, burns, or insect bites.

Question 21

Is sun exposure good for psoriasis patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes, moderate UV light suppresses excessive immune responses and produces vitamin D, which is highly beneficial for improving psoriasis.

Question 22

I suddenly developed red spots all over my body after having a cold.

Accepted Answer

This is likely guttate psoriasis (psoriasis guttata). It develops after throat infections, such as tonsillitis, when streptococcal toxins stimulate the immune system.

Question 23

Are there foods that psoriasis patients should avoid?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol, greasy foods, and instant foods, which can trigger inflammation in the body, aggravate psoriasis. Alcohol, especially, is the worst exacerbating factor.

Question 24

My scalp dandruff is very severe. Is it seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

While both conditions cause dandruff, psoriasis presents with thicker (silvery-white) scales and well-demarcated borders, extending beyond the hairline to involve the forehead or behind the ears.

Question 25

Can psoriasis also cause joint pain?

Accepted Answer

Yes, psoriatic arthritis develops in 10-30% of psoriasis patients. Finger and toe joint pain is common.

Question 26

Is psoriasis a lifelong incurable disease?

Accepted Answer

It is not an incurable disease, but a chronic condition that requires ongoing management, much like high blood pressure. With appropriate treatment and management, you can maintain a symptom-free state of "remission" throughout your life.

Question 27

Can I use medicated shampoo (such as Nizoral) for scalp psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

Medicated shampoos are intended for fungal infections, so their efficacy for psoriasis is limited. In fact, they can even dry out your scalp. Therefore, a mild, low-pH shampoo is a better choice.

Question 28

My skin cracks every winter. Is it psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

Simple dry skin (xerosis) presents with white scales, but without prominent red patches. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is characterized by thick scales on red plaques.

Question 29

Does stress make my psoriasis flare up significantly?

Accepted Answer

Stress is the biggest trigger disrupting the immune system. Meditation or acupuncture, which calms the sympathetic nervous system, provides immediate help.

Question 30

Can I share a towel with a psoriasis patient? (Contagious?)

Accepted Answer

No, it is absolutely not contagious. Psoriasis is an immune system disorder, not a bacterial or viral infection. Please rest assured.

Question 31

I have painful pustules on my palms and soles (Pustular Psoriasis).

Accepted Answer

Palmoplantar pustulosis is a rare condition that is challenging to treat. Unlike common psoriasis, it is characterized by the formation of sterile pustules and is closely associated with smoking.

Question 32

My face flushes easily and feels hot, even with slight warmth, and the heat doesn't subside.

Accepted Answer

It is a symptom known as "Sangyeolhahan" (上熱下寒), or "Upper Heat, Lower Cold," where heat pools in the upper body due to a systemic circulatory imbalance. Su-seung-hwa-gang (水昇火降) treatment, which aims to bring down this accumulated heat, is necessary.

Question 33

I have small bumps on my face, and I'm not sure if it's acne or seborrheic dermatitis.

Accepted Answer

Unlike acne, seborrheic dermatitis is accompanied by itching and stinging, and causes skin flaking, primarily affecting the eyebrows and the area around the nose.

Question 34

Does rhinophyma, sometimes called 'strawberry nose' (a type of rosacea), progressively worsen?

Accepted Answer

Rosacea is a progressive disease. Initially, it begins with flushing, but if left untreated, it can progress through inflammatory papules and pustules, potentially leading to a deformation of the nose. Therefore, early treatment is critical.

Question 35

Does seborrheic dermatitis cause hair loss?

Accepted Answer

Yes, "seborrheic alopecia" can occur. Scalp inflammation and excessive sebum block hair follicles and weaken hair roots, causing hair to thin and fall out.

Question 36

My face breaks out when I eat spicy food.

Accepted Answer

Capsaicin stimulates the sympathetic nerves and dilates blood vessels. It is the worst food for patients with rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis.

Question 37

My facial flushing keeps recurring even after laser treatment.

Accepted Answer

Laser is a symptomatic treatment that ablates dilated blood vessels. If the underlying causes of blood vessel dilation (such as flushing, or autonomic nervous system imbalance) are not addressed, the condition will continue to recur.

Question 38

Is it true that excessive heat on the scalp causes hair loss?

Accepted Answer

This is true. Scalp heat, which can lead to hair loss, causes pores to widen, weakens hair roots, and shortens the lifespan of hair.

Question 39

My scalp gets itchy immediately after eating greasy foods (chicken, pizza).

Accepted Answer

It is because fats consumed are not properly broken down due to a lipid metabolism disorder and are subsequently excreted into the sebaceous glands. Without diet modification, it is difficult to get better.

Question 40

When I'm embarrassed or angry, my face flushes intensely (emotional flushing).

Accepted Answer

It's when the autonomic nervous system's regulatory ability is diminished, causing blood vessels to excessively dilate even with small emotional changes. The constrained fire (鬱火) in the heart and liver needs to be resolved.

Question 41

I've heard that a high number of Demodex mites causes rosacea. Should I eliminate them?

Accepted Answer

Everyone has Demodex mites, but if your immunity is weakened, they can multiply excessively and cause inflammation. Improving the skin environment is a priority over eradicating Demodex mites.

Question 42

Since menopause began, I've been experiencing sudden hot flashes on my face. Will they last forever?

Accepted Answer

This is 'Tidal Fever,' caused by a decline in menopausal hormones. If left untreated, it can become persistent facial flushing, making early management within the first 1-2 years crucial.

Question 43

I get red spots not only on my face, but also on my chest and back (seborrheic).

Accepted Answer

Seborrheic dermatitis commonly occurs in areas where sebaceous glands are well-developed, such as the chest (Jeonjung) and back (Baesu). Simultaneously addressing the heat toxins in the upper body is necessary for improvement.

Question 44

I get flushed even after just one drink. Is it okay for me to drink?

Accepted Answer

You are predisposed to a deficiency in alcohol-metabolizing enzymes. Acetaldehyde is a toxin that strongly dilates blood vessels, making it detrimental to patients with rosacea or facial flushing.

Question 45

I've been taking antihistamines for over 6 months, but they only provide temporary relief.

Accepted Answer

Chronic urticaria is a condition where symptoms reappear once the effects of medication subside. Instead of merely suppressing histamine, a "detoxification treatment" is necessary to stabilize the hypersensitive immune system.

Question 46

I get a prickly sensation all over my body when I exercise or take a hot bath (Cholinergic).

Accepted Answer

This is "cholinergic urticaria," which occurs when body temperature rises. It is characterized by small, millet-seed-like wheals and a severe stinging sensation, and is closely related to impaired sweat gland function.

Question 47

When I scratch my skin, raised welts appear in the shape of the scratch (Dermatographism).

Accepted Answer

This is 'dermatographism,' a condition responsive to physical stimuli. Approximately 5% of the Korean population experiences it, with areas exposed to tight clothing or watches often becoming swollen and itchy.

Question 48

My skin shows no visible changes, but my entire body is unbearably itchy (Pruritus).

Accepted Answer

Itching without a rash (pruritus) can be a sign of underlying systemic conditions like dry skin, anemia, diabetes, or thyroid disease.

Question 49

My lips or eyes swell up along with hives (angioedema).

Accepted Answer

This is 'angioedema,' a swelling deep under the skin. If the inside of the throat (airway) swells, it can cause breathing difficulties, potentially requiring immediate emergency treatment.

Question 50

My hives seem to have gotten worse after starting treatment (Herxheimer reaction).

Accepted Answer

This could be a "healing crisis," where symptoms temporarily worsen as deep-seated toxins are expelled from the body. It is part of the healing process and usually subsides within 1-2 weeks.

Question 51

I get hives when exposed to cold air or air conditioning (cold urticaria).

Accepted Answer

This is "cold urticaria," which develops upon exposure to cold. Your skin's temperature regulation ability is compromised, so you need to keep your body warm and raise your basal body temperature.

Question 52

I get hives when I eat wheat and exercise.

Accepted Answer

This is "Food-Dependent Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis (FDEIA)," which manifests only when you exercise after consuming specific foods. You should either exercise after your food has been fully digested or avoid the specific causative food.

Question 53

When I'm stressed, I find myself scratching excessively. Is this just a habit? (Psychogenic)

Accepted Answer

This is 'psychogenic pruritus,' an itch perceived in the brain rather than being habitual. It's caused by stress hormones stimulating the nerves, and therefore, treatment focusing on managing your mental well-being should be pursued concurrently.

Question 54

My whole body itches and flakes as I get older (age-related).

Accepted Answer

This is "senile pruritus," which occurs due to a reduction in the skin's lipid barrier and the depletion of vital bodily fluids. It is necessary to avoid frequent bathing, provide intensive moisturizing care, and replenish vital fluids.

Question 55

If I have a fever and hives, should I go to the emergency room?

Accepted Answer

It may not be just ordinary hives, but rather a sign of an infection or a systemic disease. If a high fever (38°C or higher) is present, you must seek immediate medical attention.

Question 56

My allergy tests came back negative, but I get itchy when I only eat instant food. What could be causing this?

Accepted Answer

It is a "pseudoallergy" caused by food additives. While it does not show up in immunological tests, it is a phenomenon where chemical substances directly stimulate histamine secretion.

Question 57

Scratching an itch feels relieving, so why am I told not to?

Accepted Answer

Because while scratching provides temporary pleasure to the brain, it simultaneously triggers an explosive release of inflammatory substances. These substances then cause even greater itchiness, thus trapping you in an "itch-scratch cycle."

Question 58

I've had cryotherapy several times, but my warts reappeared.

Accepted Answer

As it is a viral disease, even if only the superficial warts are burned off, recurrence will happen if the virus remains. You need to boost your immunity to overcome the virus.

Question 59

I have hundreds of flat warts spread across my face. Do I need laser treatment?

Accepted Answer

Flat warts spread rapidly if irritated during their active phase. It is a priority to suppress the virus with immunotherapy before laser treatment.

Question 60

My child has molluscum contagiosum. Will it go away on its own?

Accepted Answer

It may heal naturally, but this can take several months to over a year, and during that time, it can be transmitted to siblings or friends. If your child is scratching, treatment should be provided.

Question 61

I thought it was a plantar corn, but it's a wart. Walking is too painful.

Accepted Answer

Unlike corns, warts have blood vessels, causing them to bleed (punctate bleeding) if cut or shaved. They also tend to be more painful when squeezed from the sides than when pressed from above.

Question 62

I have a wart in an intimate area, but I'm too embarrassed to go to the hospital.

Accepted Answer

Genital warts (condyloma acuminata) are often concealed due to the stigma of being a sexually transmitted infection. However, if left untreated, they may be caused by high-risk HPV types that can progress to cancer, making treatment absolutely essential.

Question 63

Blisters and needle-like pain on one side of my body (Shingles)

Accepted Answer

This is 'Herpes Zoster' (shingles), which occurs when a sudden drop in immunity allows the latent varicella (chickenpox) virus to travel up the nerves. Timely treatment within the golden time (72 hours) is critical.

Question 64

When I'm tired, I get blisters on my lips (cold sores).

Accepted Answer

This is a Herpes virus (herpes simplex) infection. A complete cure is difficult, and it recurs whenever your immune system weakens, so maintaining your overall physical condition is key.

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