SKIN, RED AND SWOLLEN: DESCRIPTION AND POSSIBLE MEDICAL PROBLEMS
As the skin ages, it becomes thinner and naturally less resistant to bacteria, viruses, and allergens that can irritate it, either on the surface or below, in the epidermis.
A variety of infections and allergens can cause the skin to appear red and swollen. Most are easy to treat.
Sometimes an insect bite, a scratch, or inflammation of a hair follicle can become infected and cause the surrounding skin to become red and swollen. This frequently occurs when bacteria enter the skin through the wound and then cause an infection. Frequently, however, an infection occurs when the skin has come into contact with a substance that has caused an allergic reaction—anything from poison ivy to a new brand of makeup.
Because older skin is also more sensitive to trauma, sometimes it may seem as though your skin is constantly red and irritated. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be the rule for you.
*309\167\8*
