Bumps on Arms

Bumps on arms is a common skin condition worldwide. In majority of the cases, bumps on arms are manifested as a result of keratosis pilaris. The bumps caused due to this medical condition usually resemble acne or pimples. This is the reason as to why, these bumps usually go unnoticed. The bumps on arms are reddish and irritated, but itching rarely occurs. The symptoms may worsen during low humidity conditions, especially winter months, due to dry skin. Similarly, the signs and symptoms of bumps on arms after sun exposure may exacerbate significantly. Let's take a look at the causes, diagnosis, treatment and home remedies of bumps on arms.

Causes of Bumps on Arms

In case bumps on arms are manifested as a result of keratosis pilaris, then it is caused due to excess accumulation of the natural skin protein, known as keratin. Over a period of time, these keratin buildups block the skin pores and hair follicles, thus leading to formation of small raised bumps. In medical terms, the skin lacks the ability to shed the dead cells and keratin. Very often, ingrown hair are present inside the bumps on arms. In addition to bumps on arms, bumps may be manifested in other parts of the body such as face, chest, thigh, buttocks and back.

Bumps on arms due to keratosis pilaris is hereditary. Hence, it is quite obvious that these skin disorders run in families. On the brighter side, bumps on arms are not contagious, which is not the case with most of the skin problems. As per statistics, bumps on arms occur in about 50 percent of the world's population. The frequency of occurrence is higher among the young populations, which accounts to about 80 percent. Also, the ratio is higher among women than men. Bumps on arms are harmless, but people usually opt for the treatment only for cosmetic reasons.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Bumps on Arms

For the diagnosis of bumps of arms, the doctor may analyze medical history and conduct culturing of the cell sample collected from the bumps. Very rarely, bumps on arms may be due to bacterial folliculitis, which is an infection of the hair follicle by Staphylococcus strain. If such is the case, then the physician may prescribe an antibiotic course for the treatment of bumps on arms. Since bumps on arms due to keratosis pilaris do not pose serious conditions, not many people seek medical intervention for the treatment of bumps on arms.

There is no cure for bumps on arms, if the resulting symptoms are due to keratosis pilaris. However, there are several potential treatment options for bumps on arms. Those people who are very concerned about their looks and physical appearance usually opt for the treatment of bumps on arms. The treatment of keratosis pilaris is focused on softening and exfoliating the skin. Skin creams and ointments containing lactic acid or urea are best effective in treating the bumps on arms. In severe cases, the physician may prescribe usage of topical corticosteroids and retinol products.

Speaking about the home remedies to combat bumps on arms, one should avoid hot showers and usage of scrubbers during bathing. Use of room humidifier is also effective for hydrating the skin, thus preventing from drying. Do not pop the bumps on arms as far as possible. Though pooping is not harmful, it can lead to formation of scars. Following proper skin care tips as per the directions of the physician will help in successful treatment of the bumps on arms.