Living a DIY lifestyle means taking a comprehensive approach to everything, including your skin. Your skin can give you important clues about what’s happening inside your body, so it shouldn’t be ignored. Let’s explore what certain skin changes might be trying to tell you.
Changes in your skin can be an easy way to detect if something is off without experiencing internal pain. Healthy skin should be hydrated and consistently colored. If your skin becomes discolored, rashy, itchy, or shows any abnormal signs, it’s signaling that something might be wrong.
So, what messages is your skin trying to convey?
Itchy, dark red bumps might mean you have a condition called lichen planus. These bumps usually appear on the inside of your wrists or even in your mouth but can show up elsewhere on the body. Lichen planus isn’t contagious or cancerous, but it could be linked to hepatitis C, so you should see your doctor for a liver check.
Bags under your eyes are often harmless and result from lack of sleep, usually disappearing after a good night’s rest. However, if persistent and severe despite proper sleep, it may be due to a diet high in sodium, causing your body to retain water. Persistent puffiness should be reported to your doctor.
A butterfly-shaped rash on the face, covering the cheeks and the bridge of the nose, can be worrisome. It might be simple dermatitis, which is treatable with medication. However, this type of rash is also associated with the autoimmune disease Lupus, necessitating a prompt visit to your doctor for further testing.
Hyperpigmentation, characterized by darker patches of skin, results from excessive melanin production, often due to sun exposure but can have other causes as well. Common areas include the elbows, neck, knees, groin, or armpits. These spots might mimic a tan but can be early signs of diabetes. Monitoring your diet and consulting your doctor about lifestyle changes is crucial.
Dermatitis herpetiformis, or Duhring’s disease, consists of large blisters filled with clear fluid, appearing around knees, stomach, back, or scalp. It resembles herpes but is related to celiac disease. Most common in people of northern European or northern Indian descent, it’s treatable with medication and dietary changes, so discuss this with your doctor.
Dry, itchy skin could simply result from dry winter air. Avoid practices that dry out your skin further, like long hot showers or washing dishes without gloves. Opt for shorter, cooler showers, use a humidifier, and apply thick natural moisturizers regularly. If the itching is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms, a visit to the doctor is advisable as it could indicate a more serious condition.
The good news is that many skin changes don’t signal serious issues. However, if you’re uncertain about any changes, it’s best to consult your doctor promptly. Early detection usually makes treatment easier and more effective, reducing discomfort.