What Can Your Skin Condition Tell You About Your Health?
When your skin is acting up, it could be that you’re using a product that’s irritating it and need to make some adjustments to your routine, or it could be a symptom of an underlying health issue. Either way, it’s important to pay attention to skin irregularities and see a dermatologist if there’s anything that worries you. Issues relating to your skin, hair, and nails aren’t just cosmetic concerns; they can also say a lot about your overall state of health. In fact, many serious diseases show up on your skin first. The team at Skin Wellness Physicians provides a variety of aesthetic treatments, like BOTOX® injections, in Naples, but they are also highly experienced in diagnosing and treating skin ailments. They recommend taking a closer look in the mirror and taking note of these signs that might warrant a consultation.
- Dark Circles
In most cases, if you notice dark circles under your eyes, you might simply have not had enough sleep the night before. However, these bruise-like areas can sometimes indicate poor overall sleeping habits, dehydration, anemia from iron deficiency, allergies, or thyroid conditions.
- Velvet Plaques
Known by the medical term acanthosis nigricans, these show up as dark patches with a velvety texture on such areas as the armpit, groin, neck, and elbows. Velvet plaques often itch and have an odor. They can be symptoms of diabetes and even some cancers.
- Chronic Itching
Skin that itches constantly and has other changes such as redness, leathery areas, or dry and cracked areas is often a sign of a chronic skin disease such as eczema and psoriasis, a serious internal disease of the kidney or liver, or even certain psychiatric conditions.
- Yellowish Skin and Whites of Eyes
A condition called jaundice makes the skin and the whites of the eyes develop a yellow tint or hue. This can indicate a serious viral infection, alcohol abuse, or a disease of the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas.
- Unusual Moles
Skin cancer can appear as moles with abnormal shapes or colors. Look for moles that are new or have changed in appearance, especially in a relatively short amount of time.
Talk to a dermatologist at Skin Wellness Physicians to learn more about your skin type and condition. If you would like to talk to us about any skin concerns, as well as have us look at something in person, call us at (239) 732-0044, or fill out a contact form to request a consultation.
