Home treatment for molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is an infection of the skin. It is caused by a virus and it usually affects children. Molluscum contagiosum can also affect adults but in these cases it is commonly related to sexually transmitted diseases (STD) or weakened immune system.

The symptoms of molluscum contagiosum are bumps on the skin which are red, round, small with a white dot at the top and sometimes itchy. The bumps are usually painless but if they are scratched they can spread to the surrounding skin. Molluscum contagiosum is a contagious infection which can be passed on through direct contact or through contaminated things.

In order to make a diagnosis the doctor will usually perform just a physical exam of the skin. In some cases a sample from the infected part of the skin can be taken and examined under a microscope. The bumps can appear on any part of the body, except the palms and soles. As far as children are concerned the bumps appear on the body, face, arms and legs. As for adults, the bumps may occur on the genital area.

In some cases molluscum contagiosum can disappear after one year without any treatment. However, in case an adult has molluscum contagiosum which is related to STD, medical treatment is necessary. Since molluscum contagiosum is very contagious, the doctor may suggest treatment which includes removal of the bumps. The removal of the bumps can be performed by laser therapy, scraping or freezing. Another possible treatment may be topical medications which are used in treating acne or warts. The goal of any treatment is to prevent spreading and secondary infection. People with impaired immune system can experience more severe symptoms of molluscum contagiosum so the treatment may be different.

Home treatment for molluscum contagiosum includes prevention from spreading to the other parts of the skin and to the others. You should maintain the skin clean and do not scratch the bumps. You can put a piece of bandage on the bump so it does not get injured. You should not share any of your personal belongings. Avoid shaving if the bumps are on the face because the infection can easily spread to the surrounding skin. If bumps are on the genitals evade any sexual activity. Avoid swimming pools, playing contact sports such as wrestling and shared baths.

A product called AntiMolluscum-Rx was proven to be successful in treating and eliminating molluscum contagiosum. It can also prevent the virus from spreading and it is tolerant to the healthy skin.