Introduction
Molluscum contagiosum is an infection of the mucous membranes of the skin. It is commonly a viral infection and is caused by skin to skin contact, sometimes direct but at times, also indirect. It is not known to be a very serious infection and will usually clear up within a couple months, but sometimes will stick around for two years or so. It is characterized as pink and/ or whitish spots on the body. Usually, the spots will appear on the face, arms, buttocks or abdomen area. The spots can be 1 to 5 mm in diameter and at times, larger. It is highly contagious so if you do believe you have mulluscom, then it is best to avoid skin to skin contact, especially sexual intercourse. It is also suggested to avoid sharing other personal items such as clothing and bath towels.
Step 1
If you think you have mulluscom and begin seeing the whitish or pinkish colored dots forming on your skin, it is best to get in contact with your health provider as soon as possible and to go in to get a check up. If the doctor does in fact think you have mulluscom. then there are several treatment plans available to you, however, most patients with mulluscom do not need to be treated as the virus will go away completely by itself.
Step 2
Discuss the treatment process of Cryotherapy with your doctor. Cryotherapy is basically freezing away the molluscum. growth. It is similar to the process of freezing off warts and is normally not very painful at all, but everyone's threshold for pain is different. However, not every person with mulluscom may be a good candidate for Cryotherapy, as it varies from person to person.
Step 3
Your doctor may also prescribe a cream for mulluscom. These creams contain certain types of chemicals, such as salicylic acid and podophyllin. They are topical ointments and are used to get rid of the bumps as well as strengthen your skin's immune system. These creams need to be prescribed by a physician and should not be taken without a medical prescription in your name. They also need to be applied as directed.
Step 4
There is also an oral medication called Cimetidine that is used to treat mulluscom. This medication is also only available by prescription and is used mostly in children who have contracted molluscum. Cimetidine can also cause some unpleasant side effects, so it is best to discuss such information with your doctor.
Step 5
As stated above, the best way to treat mulluscom is to just let it go away naturally. However, in order to avoid having this mulluscom again and avoid giving it to someone else, you should follow great hygiene. Wash your hands frequently and under hot water, with a strong antibacterial soap. To wash your hands the correct way, you need to first soak your hands under the faucet and apply soap. Rub your hands together for a good 15 seconds, using a scrubbing action to completely remove any germs. Lastly, rinse well and dry your hands on a clean hand towel.
