What should I do about the many small, grain-like bumps on my back?
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
There may be various causes for the numerous small, millet-sized bumps on the back, such as milia, acne, folliculitis, molluscum contagiosum, or flat warts. It is recommended to improve the condition through general treatment, medication, physical therapy, and other approaches. In daily life, one should avoid consuming spicy or greasy foods, such as chili peppers and fatty meats, and pay more attention to rest and ensure sufficient sleep.
Numerous millet-sized small bumps on the back may be caused by conditions such as milia, acne, folliculitis, molluscum contagiosum, or flat warts. It is recommended to improve the condition through general treatment, medication, physical therapy, and other methods.
1. Milia: Often related to genetic factors or damage to sweat glands, milia occur when sebum cannot be excreted normally and accumulates to form white granules. These appear as small white bumps, which may develop on the back. Usually, no specific treatment is required. It is important to maintain clean skin, bathe daily, and use mild body wash or shampoo to keep the skin clean.
2. Acne: Often associated with hormonal imbalances, acne commonly occurs in adolescents. Increased androgen levels stimulate excessive sebum production, which can become infected by bacteria when sebum accumulates in the sebaceous glands of the back. This results in scattered pimples, pustules, and comedones on the back. Treatment may involve the use of medications such as erythromycin ointment or sulfur ointment as directed by a physician.
3. Folliculitis: Mainly caused by staphylococcal infection, folliculitis can also occur due to inadequate back hygiene or bacterial infection, leading to blocked hair follicles. Debris within the pores cannot be expelled in a timely manner, resulting in small papules. It typically presents as small pustules surrounding hairs, with a pus-filled white tip and surrounding redness. Treatment may involve the use of medications such as mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream as directed by a doctor.
4. Molluscum Contagiosum: Common in children and adolescents, this condition is caused by infection with the molluscum contagiosum virus. Symptoms include multiple small, shiny bumps the size of millet grains appearing on the back. Treatment may involve the use of medications such as imiquimod cream or tretinoin cream as advised by a physician.
5. Flat Warts: Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, flat warts can appear on the back. Symptoms include flat, grain-like papules ranging in size from millet to green peas. These lesions are typically scattered and soft in texture. Laser therapy may be recommended by a physician to remove the warts.
In daily life, it is advisable to avoid spicy and greasy foods such as chili peppers and fatty meats. Adequate rest and sufficient sleep should be ensured. Wearing loose, breathable clothing is recommended, and prolonged use of tight clothing should be avoided. If symptoms persist or worsen, timely medical consultation and professional treatment are advised.
