Hidden Skin Problems

No one likes the feeling of dry and itchy skin which may be irritated or inflamed and will go to many lenghts to get some releif, but do you know the cause of this discomfort?  Some skin conditions may be linked to other health issues and be risk factors for other diseases.

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory condition known for causing red, itchy patches of skin but it’s also been linked to sleep disturbances, joint problems, and other injuries.  A study published in JAMA showed that people with Eczema who experienced a flare-up in the last year were more likely than those without the condition to have experienced a bone or joint injury, like a fracture, as well.  In severe cases, Eczema is treated with oral steroids, which over time can affect bone density, possibly contributing further to the possibility of injury.

An autoimmune disorder, Psoriasis in which cells multiply too quickly and form shiny scales on the skin’s surface, Psoriasis often occurs alongside arthritis or other joint diseases, in particular psoriasis arthritis. Recent studies have also linked Psoriasis to heart disease, stroke, and poor blood pressure management. While doctors aren’t sure of the exact relationship between these conditions, they suspect that inflammation plays a role here, too. Along with Eczema and other skin conditions like Scleroderma, which causes hardening of the skin—are also more likely than people without psoriasis to be smokers, heavy drinkers, or to suffer from depression or anxiety.

People suffering from Vitiligo which is an auto-immune disease that causes white spots to appear on the face and body, can have symptoms get worse when they are under stress.  The stress-skin connection is perhaps most well documented with Vitiligo, but stress is a factor in Psoriasis, Eczema, and possibly even run-of-the-mill Acne.  Another skin ailment known as Stasis Dermatitis is the darkening or discoloration of the skin on your legs and ankles caused by varicose veins which is a circulatory problem that leads to swelling and blocks blood flow to the skin. Stasis Dermatitis can be a symptom of underlying diabetes and its effects on your body’s circulatory system.  Diabetes can also cause skin infections, intense itching, slow wound healing, and shin spots; in fact, patients with ongoing unexplained itching or skin troubles are often tested for diabetes.

If your suffering from any on going skin issues, its best to consult with your doctor to avoid the risk of hidden issues.