Guide To The Warning Signs Of Folliculitis

Itchy Skin

When itching occurs due to folliculitis, it can be something that happens occasionally or as a recurring problem. The severity of the itching can be mild or unbearable. Itchy skin may or may not be present in all cases of folliculitis. For some patients, however, it can be the worst symptom. Patients with eosinophilic folliculitis, a type that commonly affects the scalp, face, neck, and trunk, typically describe the itch as quite intense. Diffuse folliculitis, which can be referred to as swimmer's itch, is known for causing severe itching as well.

Another type associated with itching is pruritic folliculitis of pregnancy (PFP). This type sometimes causes itching and bumps on the torsos of pregnant women. It is vital to note that while these forms of folliculitis have been linked to severe itching, all types have at least some degree of itching. While it is not as unpleasant as severe itching, mild itching can still be an early warning sign of folliculitis.

Large Swollen Bumps

When folliculitis is severe, it can cause large swollen bumps to appear as abscesses or other lesions. Red bumps that seem to protrude from the surface of the skin are often a sign of folliculitis. Sometimes it can manifest as a single bump, while other times, there may be a series of large swollen bumps. When the bumps are large and swollen, patients will deal with an aching or burning pain. They may be easily mistaken for other skin conditions such as pimples, carbuncles, boils, and cysts. These bumps can seemingly appear overnight or gradually grow over a few days. As folliculitis can sometimes occur in areas where individuals shave, these bumps can become even more swollen if they are further irritated by a razor.