Category: Dermatology

If you’ve ever had chickenpox — and most adults have — the virus never fully leaves your body. It goes dormant, hiding quietly in your nervous system for years or even decades. For about 1 in 3 Americans, that virus will eventually wake up and cause shingles. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Shingles?

Shingles (medically known as herpes zoster) is a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After chickenpox clears, the virus retreats into the nerve tissue near your spinal cord and brain, where it stays dormant. When the immune system weakens enough to allow reactivation, the virus travels along nerve pathways to the skin, causing a distinctive, often painful rash.

The shingles rash typically appears as a stripe or band of blisters wrapping around one side of the torso, though it can also develop on the face, neck, or around one eye. Before the rash even appears, most people experience a few days of burning, tingling, or shooting pain in the affected area — which can make early diagnosis tricky.

Who Gets Shingles — and Why?

Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, but certain factors make reactivation much more likely.

Age is the biggest risk factor. The immune system naturally becomes less robust over time, and shingles rates climb significantly after age 50. The condition is most common in people between their 60s and 70s, but it can affect younger adults too — particularly those with weakened immune systems.

A compromised immune system plays a major role. People living with HIV, those undergoing chemotherapy, and individuals taking long-term corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medications face a meaningfully higher risk of shingles. Autoimmune conditions can also elevate risk.

Chronic stress and illness are also contributing factors. High levels of prolonged stress and physical exhaustion can suppress immune function enough to allow the virus to reactivate.

It’s worth noting: you cannot “catch” shingles from someone who has it. However, a person with an active shingles rash can spread chickenpox to someone who has never had it or hasn’t been vaccinated.

What Are the Symptoms?

Shingles symptoms typically unfold in stages:

Prodrome phase: Pain, burning, or tingling in a localized area, sometimes with sensitivity to touch — this can begin several days before any rash appears.
Rash phase: Red patches develop, followed by fluid-filled blisters that break open and crust over, usually within 7–10 days. The rash typically clears in 2–4 weeks.
Pain: Even after the rash heals, nerve pain can linger. This complication — called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) — affects roughly 10–18% of shingles patients and can persist for months or years.

Treatment Options

Act fast. Antiviral medications — such as valacyclovir, acyclovir, or famciclovir — are most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing. They can shorten the outbreak, reduce its severity, and lower the risk of long-term nerve pain. This is why seeing a provider as soon as symptoms begin is so important.

In addition to antivirals, treatment may include:

• Pain relievers (over-the-counter or prescription) to manage discomfort during the outbreak
• Topical treatments to soothe the rash and reduce irritation
• Nerve pain medications such as gabapentin or certain antidepressants, if postherpetic neuralgia develops
• Corticosteroids in select cases to reduce inflammation

Prevention matters too. The CDC recommends that adults 50 and older receive the Shingrix vaccine, which is highly effective at reducing the risk of shingles and its complications. Adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems should also be vaccinated. If you haven’t received it yet, ask your provider about it at your next visit.

Don’t Wait on Shingles Symptoms

Shingles can escalate quickly, and the window for the most effective treatment is short. If you’re experiencing unusual skin pain, burning, or a new rash — especially on one side of your body — it’s time to be seen.

At Uderm, our board-certified dermatologists can evaluate your symptoms, confirm a diagnosis, and get you started on treatment right away.

Schedule your appointment today:

📞 Call us to speak with our team
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Don’t wait — with shingles, early care makes all the difference.

If you’ve been dealing with persistent itching, skin changes, or discomfort in the genital area — and haven’t been able to find answers — you may be surprised to learn there’s a specific skin condition that often goes undiagnosed for months or even years. Lichen sclerosus (LS) is more common than most people realize, and with the right dermatological care, it’s very manageable.

What Is Lichen Sclerosus?

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become thin, pale, and fragile — often appearing white or ivory-colored. It most commonly affects the genital and anal area, though in some cases it can appear on the upper body, neck, or thighs. The condition tends to cause itching that ranges from mild to intense, as well as discomfort, skin tearing, and in more advanced cases, scarring. Researchers believe LS is likely autoimmune in nature, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin tissue. Hormonal and genetic factors are also thought to play a role.

How Common Is It?

More common than you might think — and likely underdiagnosed. Estimates suggest lichen sclerosus affects between 1 in 300 and 1 in 1,000 people. Women are affected five to ten times more often than men, and it’s most frequently seen in postmenopausal women. However, it does not discriminate by age.

There are actually two peak periods when LS tends to appear: in adult women around and after menopause, and in prepubertal girls — typically around age 5. Men and boys can also develop the condition, though it’s less common. Because symptoms often overlap with other conditions — or people feel too embarrassed to bring them up — lichen sclerosus frequently goes unrecognized for a long time.

Lichen Sclerosus in Children

Yes, children can develop lichen sclerosus, and it’s important for parents to know what to look for. In young girls, LS typically appears in the anogenital area and can cause itching, soreness, constipation (due to pain with bowel movements), and white, fragile-looking skin. Crucially, the appearance of LS in children can sometimes be mistaken for signs of injury or abuse, making an accurate diagnosis from a knowledgeable provider especially important.

The good news is that some children do see improvement after puberty, though research shows that many cases persist into adulthood — which is one more reason early diagnosis and treatment matter. If your child is experiencing unexplained discomfort, skin changes, or irritation in the genital area, don’t hesitate to seek a professional evaluation.

When to See a Dermatologist

You should make an appointment if you or your child are experiencing any of the following:

• Persistent itching or burning in the genital or anal area that doesn’t resolve
• Skin that appears white, thin, or shiny in the affected area
• Pain with intercourse, urination, or bowel movements
• Skin tearing, blistering (blood blisters), or bruising without a clear cause
• Changes in the appearance of the genitals over time, such as narrowing or scarring

Because LS is a progressive condition, early intervention is key. Untreated lichen sclerosus can lead to permanent scarring and structural changes, and in rare cases, long-term untreated LS in adults has been associated with an increased risk of certain skin cancers. A dermatologist can examine the area, confirm a diagnosis (sometimes with a simple skin biopsy), and get you started on treatment before the condition advances.

How Is Lichen Sclerosus Treated?

The most effective and widely used treatment for lichen sclerosus is a prescription-strength topical corticosteroid ointment. When used consistently, it can significantly reduce itching, inflammation, and the risk of scarring for most patients. Other options include topical calcineurin inhibitors (such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus) for those who need an alternative to steroids.

While there is no cure for lichen sclerosus, it is absolutely treatable — and most people are able to manage their symptoms well with the right care plan and routine follow-up. The earlier treatment begins, the better the long-term outcomes.

You Don’t Have to Manage This Alone

Lichen sclerosus can feel isolating, especially because it affects such a private area of the body. But it’s a recognized medical condition, and our board-certified dermatologists are experienced in diagnosing and treating it with the care and sensitivity you deserve.

Schedule your appointment today:

📞 Call us to speak with our team directly
💻 Book online anytime using our self-scheduling portal.

Answers, relief, and a clear treatment plan are closer than you think.

We all lose hair every day — about 50 to 100 strands is completely normal. But when you start noticing more hair on your pillow, in the shower drain, or in your brush than usual, it’s easy to wonder: Is this something I should be concerned about? The short answer is that many causes of hair loss are very treatable, especially when caught early. Here’s how to know when it’s time to stop guessing and start getting answers from a dermatologist.

It’s More Than Just Genetics

Hair loss is often assumed to be purely hereditary, but the reality is far more nuanced. Dermatologists are trained to identify dozens of different causes — from hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies to autoimmune conditions and scalp infections. What looks like simple thinning on the surface may have a very specific, treatable root cause underneath. That’s why a professional evaluation is so valuable: it replaces guesswork with a real diagnosis.

Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Not all hair shedding is created equal. While a few extra hairs after a stressful month may resolve on their own, certain patterns and symptoms deserve prompt attention. Consider scheduling an appointment if you notice:

• Sudden or rapid shedding — Losing hair in large clumps or seeing dramatic thinning over a short period of time can signal a medical issue that needs attention.
• Patchy bald spots — Smooth, circular bald patches on the scalp (or elsewhere on the body) may indicate alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that responds well to treatment when addressed early.
• A widening part or thinning crown — Gradual thinning at the top of the head is a hallmark of androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) in both men and women. Early intervention can significantly slow progression.
• Scalp irritation, redness, or flaking — Hair loss accompanied by an itchy, inflamed, or scaly scalp may point to a treatable scalp condition like seborrheic dermatitis or a fungal infection.
• Hair loss after a major life event — Illness, surgery, pregnancy, or extreme stress can trigger significant shedding (called telogen effluvium) two to three months after the event. While often temporary, a dermatologist can confirm the cause and recommend supportive care.
• Changes in hair texture or quality — Brittle, dull, or easily breakable hair alongside shedding can sometimes indicate a thyroid issue or nutritional deficiency worth investigating.

If any of these sound familiar, trust your instincts. Earlier treatment almost always leads to better outcomes.

Why a Dermatologist — Not Just a Google Search

It can be tempting to try over-the-counter products or home remedies before seeing a doctor. While some options (like minoxidil) are evidence-based and accessible, using the wrong treatment for the wrong type of hair loss can delay real results — or even make things worse. A board-certified dermatologist can examine your scalp, review your health history, and order bloodwork or a scalp biopsy if needed to pinpoint exactly what’s going on. From there, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific type of hair loss.

The Earlier, the Better

Hair follicles that are damaged over time can become less responsive to treatment. That’s why the single most important thing you can do for your hair health is not wait. Whether your hair loss turns out to be something minor or something that requires ongoing management, getting evaluated sooner gives you the most options — and the best chance at real results.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Our board-certified dermatologists at Uderm.com are here to help you understand what’s happening and find a path forward that works for you.

Schedule your appointment today — it’s easy:

📞 Call us to speak with our team directly
💻 Book online anytime using our convenient self-scheduling portal.

Your hair health matters. Let’s work on it together.

If you’ve noticed a bump (or a few bumps) on you or your child’s skin, you might be wondering: Is this a wart? Is it molluscum? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Both are super common skin conditions, especially among kids, but they’re actually caused by different viruses and require different approaches. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.

What’s a Wart, Anyway?

Warts are those bumpy, rough-textured growths that pop up on your hands, feet, and sometimes other areas. They’re caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is incredibly common. Warts are usually skin-colored or slightly darker, and they can appear alone or in clusters. The good news? They’re not contagious through the air—but you do get them through direct contact with the virus. Rest assured, they’re completely harmless, though pretty annoying!

What About Molluscum?

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a different virus (the molluscum contagiosum virus, or MCV). Unlike warts, molluscum bumps are usually smooth, dome-shaped, and often have a little dimple in the center—kind of like a tiny belly button. They’re typically smaller than warts and tend to appear in groups. While they are contagious through skin-to-skin contact (and can spread if you scratch them), they’re harmless and usually go away on their own over time.

So, What’s the Real Difference?

Here’s the quick version:

Appearance: Warts are bumpy and rough; molluscum is smooth with a central dimple
Cause: Different viruses entirely
Location: Warts love hands and feet; molluscum appears anywhere on the body
Contagiousness: Both spread through contact, but molluscum spreads more easily
Duration: Warts can linger for months or years; molluscum usually clears in 6-12 months

What About Treatment?

Both conditions respond well to professional treatment! At Uderm, we offer options like:

• Topical treatments (creams and solutions)
• Cryotherapy (freezing them off—super effective!)
• Laser removal for stubborn cases
• Curettage (gentle removal under local anesthesia)

The best treatment depends on the type, location, and how many you have. Some people prefer to wait them out, while others want them gone ASAP—and both approaches are totally valid.

Ready for Clear Skin?

Don’t let warts or molluscum hang around longer than they need to. Our team at Uderm Dermatology and Mohs Surgery is here to help you get back to feeling confident in your skin. Schedule your appointment online today through our easy self-scheduling system, and let’s get you some answers and a personalized treatment plan! Your skin is worth it.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it deserves expert care! Many people wait until a skin problem becomes serious before seeing a dermatologist, but the truth is—early intervention can save you time, money, and worry. Let’s talk about five telltale signs that it’s time to make that appointment at Uderm Dermatology and Mohs Surgery.

1. Persistent Acne That Won’t Quit

Struggling with acne despite your best efforts at home? Over-the-counter treatments don’t work for everyone, and that’s totally normal. A dermatologist can identify the root cause—whether it’s hormonal, bacterial, or something else—and prescribe targeted treatments that actually work. Don’t let acne steal your confidence!

2. New or Changing Moles

Noticing a new mole or watching an existing one change shape, size, or color? This is one of the most important reasons to see a dermatologist promptly. Early skin cancer detection can be life-changing. Our expert team uses advanced screening techniques to ensure your skin stays healthy and safe.

3. Persistent Rashes or Itching

That mysterious rash that won’t go away? Or constant itching that disrupts your daily life? Dermatologists are detectives when it comes to skin conditions! Whether it’s eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or something else, we can identify it and help you find relief. You don’t have to live with uncomfortable skin.

4. Signs of Aging You Want to Address

Wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, or loss of volume got you down? You’re not alone—and you have options! Modern dermatology offers fantastic solutions like injectables, laser treatments, and skincare plans tailored to your unique needs. It’s never too early or too late to invest in your skin’s appearance and health.

5. Warts, Skin Tags, or Other Growths

Those pesky warts or skin tags can be removed by professionals safely and effectively. Trying to handle them yourself often leads to infection or scarring. Our dermatologists use proven methods to remove these growths with minimal discomfort and beautiful results.

Take the Next Step

Your skin health is worth prioritizing. Whether you’re dealing with a specific concern or simply want to maintain healthy, radiant skin, the team at Uderm Dermatology and Mohs Surgery is here to help. We combine expertise with compassion to deliver personalized care that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Ready to give your skin the attention it deserves? Schedule your appointment today using our easy online self-scheduling or call to book with one of our expert dermatologists. Your best skin is waiting!

We understand that life gets busy, and scheduling another medical appointment might feel like just one more thing on your endless to-do list. But here’s something we want you to know: taking 15-20 minutes for an annual skin check could be one of the most important investments you make in your health this year.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, but here’s the encouraging news – when caught early, even melanoma (the most serious type) has a cure rate of nearly 99%. That’s why we’re passionate about regular skin checks. They allow us to spot changes you might not notice on your own, especially in hard-to-see areas like your scalp, back, or behind your ears.

What to Expect During Your Visit

A professional skin check is efficient and thorough. We’ll examine your skin from head to toe, looking for any spots that appear unusual in color, size, texture, or border. Many patients tell us they’re surprised by how comfortable and educational the experience is. We’ll also teach you what to look for at home between visits – because you’re your own best advocate when it comes to noticing changes.

Who Needs Regular Skin Checks?

While everyone benefits from periodic skin examinations, they’re especially crucial if you:

• Have a family history of skin cancer
• Have fair skin or numerous moles
• Spend significant time outdoors
• Have a history of sunburns

You Matter to Us

Think of your annual skin check as a wellness conversation about your body’s largest organ. ​​At Uderm Dermatology and Mohs Surgery, our board-certified dermatologists are here not just to examine, but to take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a treatment plan tailored to you. With years of training and experience, our physicians are equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of skin conditions.

Don’t wait for something to “look concerning” before scheduling your appointment. We’ve made it simple with our online self-scheduling—just select a time that works for you, and book your appointment in minutes. Your future self will thank you for taking this simple, potentially life-saving step today.

Aging skin can cause wrinkles, dry skin, dark spots, and more. Read on to learn how to prevent signs of aging and tackle common skin issues.

Causes and Signs of Aging Skin

As we age, our skin ages with us. Over time, the skin loses elasticity and collagen, causing wrinkles. In addition to wrinkles, aging skin may have discoloration or sun spots and become dryer as it loses the ability to produce sebum, the naturally occurring oil on the skin. The natural aging process, known as intrinsic aging, as well as damage from the sun and lifestyle factors, known as extrinsic aging, are the two main causes of aging skin. Exposure to sunlight and pollution, as well as smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, and diet can accelerate this process and can cause wrinkles to develop earlier. An estimated 90% of signs of aging come from unprotected exposure to the sun.

How to Prevent Signs of Aging Skin

One of the key steps to preventing aging skin and wrinkles is wearing sun protection and avoiding exposure to the sun. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends wearing a broad spectrum (UVA and UVB protection) sunscreen with at least 30 SPF daily. Use at least a teaspoon, and reapply every two hours. To protect your lips, use a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. In addition, avoid tanning beds and limit overall sun exposure as much as possible. These measures not only help prevent aging skin, but also decrease the risk of skin cancer.

Lifestyle choices can also help prevent signs of aging on the skin. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery recommends eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, avoiding stress, and limiting alcohol consumption and smoking. They also recommend doing a regular skincare routine that includes vitamin C, which fights free radicals – unstable molecules that can harm health – and brightens skin.

Skin Treatments and Cosmetic Procedures

While skincare routines and avoiding sun exposure can help reduce signs of aging skin, skin treatments and cosmetic procedures are another option. Skin-resurfacing treatments such as laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion can help improve skin’s tone, texture, and appearance. In addition, injectables like fillers and BOTOX® and skin tightening treatments can reduce wrinkles, enhance facial features, and restore lost volume. These nonsurgical options have little to no downtime and are typically completed in 90 minutes or less.

Depending on your skin goals, facial cosmetic surgery can provide more immediate, permanent, and dramatic results. According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, you may be better suited for cosmetic surgery if you have significant sagging skin, prefer to only undergo a procedure once, desire a more permanent solution, or would like to reshape a facial feature.

Along with cosmetic signs of aging skin, you may also experience new skin spots like moles or non-healing sores, which could be signs of skin cancer. Be sure to discuss any skin concerns with your doctor or dermatologist. An annual skin cancer screening can identify skin cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable.

Confidence is Key

Whether you’re diving into a multistep skincare routine or considering a cosmetic procedure, everyone deserves to feel confident and comfortable in their skin. Making necessary lifestyle changes, in addition to consulting with a dermatologist for any skin concerns and a licensed aesthetician for any cosmetic concerns, can help you determine the right approach for your skin.

Ask the Expert

Q. What changes in my skin could be a sign of something serious?

A. Any new or changing spot deserves attention. Warning signs include moles that change in size, shape, or color; lesions that itch, bleed, or don’t heal; and growths with irregular borders or multiple shades. Non-healing sores, rapidly growing bumps, or scaly patches that persist for weeks may indicate skin cancer. Pay particular attention to spots that stand out as the “ugly duckling” compared to others on your body. Also, sudden rashes, bruising, or yellowing skin can sometimes signal internal or systemic conditions. When in doubt, schedule a skin exam – early detection makes nearly all skin cancers highly treatable.

– Jonathan Miller, MD, FAAD, FACMSBoard-Certified Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon, Uderm – Dermatology & Mohs Surgery

👉 Schedule an appointment with Uderm today and trust your care to Chattanooga’s fellowship-trained Mohs surgery expert.

Written by Kristen Dee

This blog post was originally published in HealthScope® Magazine and on HealthScopeMag.com and has been reposted here with permission for informational purposes only. All credit for the content belongs to the original author and source. While we strive to share accurate and valuable information, we do not claim ownership of this material and are not responsible for any changes, updates, or interpretations made since the original publication. For the most up-to-date version, please visit healthscopemag.com.