Skin as a health indicator

OFTEN a lot of things are going on in various parts of the body, which reflect in the skin but people tend to ignore them.

If your battle with acne goes on for long or your skin gets too dry, it’s time to meet a dermatologist, say experts.

Nitin S Walia, senior consultant, Dermatology, BLK Super Speciality Hospital, and Vandana Punjabi, consultant dermatologist, trichologist and cosmetologist, Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital, have pointed out the signs:

Acne: Acne is a normal problem which happens to teenagers or people with oily skin. If the acne continues for a longer time, it can be due to a hormonal disturbance.

Dryness: Skin dryness can be due to a winter season but if the skin is extremely dry, it can be because of diabetes or thyroid issues.

Itching: Itching can be a sign of diabetes or infection in the body, sometimes due to high levels of bilirubin or creatinine.

Rashes/skin allergies: They can sometimes be due to sun burn ACNE: Sometimes causes of acne can be more than just skin deep.

but it may also be due to viral infections or a drug allergy.

Darkening of underarms and neck: This is called acanthosis nigricans and is a sign of insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes..

Yellow deposits mainly around eyes: These are cholesterol deposits and are often associated with an abnormal lipid profile.

Persistent redness on face with or without itching typically on the cheeks and nose areas: It may be a sign of lupus, an internal disease. This can affect the kidneys, liver, joints or oral cavity. – IANS