Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum
The hallmark symptoms of molluscum contagiosum are small, flesh-coloured or pink, dome-shaped bumps with a central dimple.
These bumps usually don’t hurt. Still, they may get red, swollen, or itchy—especially if someone scratches or rubs them. This irritation can make them look worse or feel sore.
Each bump is usually about 2 to 5 millimetres wide. In some people, they grow bigger. The bumps often appear in groups. They can show up almost anywhere on the body. Most often, they appear on the face, neck, underarms, arms, hands, torso, and private areas.
In adults, the Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum often show in the lower belly, inner thighs, and genitals. This happens because the virus spreads through sexual contact in many adult cases.
How the Symptoms Vary by Health Status
People with weak immune systems may have more bumps. Their bumps can also grow larger and spread across the body. These include people with conditions like HIV or those on treatments that lower immunity.
Sometimes, bacteria infect the bumps. This can cause pain, swelling, and pus. If not treated, this may lead to scars or worse skin damage. It is very important to get help if this happens.
The Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum do not show up right away. The time between infection and the first bump (called the incubation period) can be anywhere from two weeks to six months.
Because of this delay, new bumps may show up while old ones are still healing. It’s common to see both fresh and fading bumps on the same person at the same time.
Emotional Effects and Daily Impact
Most children do not feel bothered by the bumps unless they itch or become sore. But because the bumps are easy to see, children may feel shy or upset. This is especially true in schools or when playing with others.
Adults often feel even more stressed if the bumps are in the genital area. These Symptoms of Molluscum Contagiosum can cause worry about sexual health or lead to relationship stress.
To stop the infection from spreading, it’s very important not to scratch or pick the bumps. Scratching spreads the virus to new spots and slows healing. Parents should help children avoid touching the lesions.
Good skin hygiene is key. People should wash their hands often, keep the area clean, and cover any bumps when needed. If the symptoms get worse, or if the bumps hurt or ooze, it’s best to talk to a doctor.
