Monday, July 7, 2008

The Unseen Impact of Acne

cne is universal -- at some time or another we all experience this annoying disease. As teenagers we are frustrated with unsightly blemishes, and as adults, we are dismayed that we can still get acne. Acne has a predilection for affecting the face – a primary site for others to gauge our attractiveness. Facial involvement with acne is an ongoing source of embarrassment and concern – especially for those in the formative years of physical growth, self-image development and socialization.

What causes it?

When the pore openings on the face, neck, back, chest and arms become plugged with skin debris, oil produced by the deeper oil glands becomes trapped - resulting in blackheads and whiteheads. As inflammation develops, we start to see red pimples and even deeper lumps, (cysts or nodules). These inflamed spots can then lead to scarring and staining of the skin.

Oil production increases during adolescence when the sex hormones are elevated and the oil glands have increased in size. Acne becomes less frequent in the early and mid -20’s although some patients can have persistent breakouts in their 40's and beyond.

Facing the facts

While the physical features of acne are readily apparent to us all, the emotional and social impact of acne is often underestimated by non-sufferers. This can be manifested as anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. Previous studies have shown that those with acne are dissatisfied with their appearance, embarrassed, self-conscious and lack self-confidence. Problems with social interactions with the opposite gender, appearances in public, and with strangers have also been observed.

The mental stress of sufferers with acne can be greater than that associated with other chronic diseases such as asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, back pain, arthritis, and heart disease. Acne patients also have a greater tendency to significant levels of depression and anxiety.

Of particular note is one study in which 18 per cent and 44 per cent of acne patients, respectively reported serious depression and anxiety. To further illustrate the depth of despair experienced by those living with this condition, six per cent of patients in one study reported thinking about committing suicide.

Acne can also affect one’s ability to earn a livelihood. A previous study has shown that those with acne were more likely to be unemployed than those unaffected. A recent Canadian study also observed that those with more severe acne were more likely to be unemployed than those with lesser involvement. It is uncertain whether these findings are due to the patient’s psychosocial impairment or the negative response by potential employer’s to those affected by acne.

The good news

We have best solution for all types of acne , for get solution visit us at http://www.acne-treatment.cc. and for get your acne.

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