The skin is the window into our health. What is happening in your organs affects your skin and vice versa. Our skin can tell us what’s happening inside our body and all we need to do is pay attention.
Here are 7 skin problems that can be an indication of a serious problem:
1. You’re breaking out like crazy
Although adult acne is common, it can also be an indication of a serious disease. Acne can be a symptom of PCOS, polycystic ovary syndrome. PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects more than 10 million women worldwide. When a woman’s body produces excess male hormones, it’s accompanied by acne. If your acne is accompanied by irregular periods, you probably have PCOS.
2. Skin tags
Having a few skin tags is normal, but if you notice more popping out in a short amount of time, you might be facing type 2 diabetes. They’re triggered by insulin-like growth factor 1, a protein that stimulates skin overgrowth. Other indications of type 2 diabetes include: slow healing wounds, thirst and increased hunger.
3. Itchiness
It’s normal to experience itchiness when you have dry skin. On the other hand, it your itching is severe, all over your body and comes out of nowhere it might be an indication of some serious diseases. Itchiness can be caused by some types of cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia and some diseases such as kidney and liver failure. If you also experience fevers, sweats and unexplained weight loss, it’s time to visit the doctor.
4. Tender red bumps under the skin
The appearance of painful red nodules under your skin can be caused by a bowel disease called erythema nodosum. The condition can occur during a flare-up of symptoms, such as bloody stool and diarrhea.
5. A new freckle
Early melanomas can appear like a new freckle. If it’s a malignant form of cancer, the freckle will keep growing. A mole that changes size, shape and color is definitely a red flag and that needs to be checked with a doctor.
6. Your lower legs are swollen and red
When a person has a congestive heart failure, their heart struggles to keep the blood moving against the pull of gravity. The blood can pool in your legs. If you notice your lower legs swollen and red, check with your doctor to see if your heart is healthy.
7. Yellow bumps under the skin
Yellow bumps, or xanthomas, can occur on the hands, feet, glutes and can be an indication that your blood fats or cholesterol is high. They can also be an indication of pancreatitis, diabetes and even some types of cancer.