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From colour alterations to texture changes, our skin can reveal a lot about our health and well-being. As a result, being aware of telltale signs of unhappy skin can make all the difference in catching conditions early.
With that said, we’ll hear from Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at leading online pharmacy and online doctor service, The Independent Pharmacy, about five potentially serious skin changes to look out for.
Dr Grant says, “From colour changes to rashes, our skin can quickly signify the presence of potentially harmful conditions and disease. Understanding what skin changes to look out for can allow people to seek treatment earlier, limiting the long-term effects of any illnesses.
“If you’re unsure what might be causing changes in skin temperature, texture, or colour, speaking to your GP can help provide clarity and explore potential treatment options.”
1. Colour changes
Skin discolouration can affect people for many reasons. Depending on the cause and your skin tone, discoloured skin patches may appear brown, red, white, pink, purple, or black.
Dr Donald Grant says, “Pigmentary changes can be a sign of a health concern. Different colours can indicate varying illnesses – for example, jaundice, or yellow skin, can be a major sign of kidney or liver disease, while new dark or pink spots on the skin could signify skin cancer.
“In addition, poor blood circulation can lead to changes in skin pigmentation, while Addison’s disease (an endocrine disorder that stems from insufficient hormone production) can be spotted early by checking for any hyperpigmentation around joints or skin folds.”
Other causes of discoloured skin include skin disorders, infection, injuries (such as burns or blisters), allergic reactions, birthmarks, and certain medications. You can find further guidance on the Healthline website.
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2. Rashes
While many skin rashes are minor and easily treated, some can indicate more serious issues, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, and other serious health conditions.
According to experts, a rash’s characteristics, including its appearance, location, and accompanying symptoms, can offer clues about its cause.
Dr Donald Grant says, “Another key skin change to look out for is rashes. Rashes can quickly appear all over the body and, in some cases, can signal health concerns. For example, a malar, or butterfly rash (that appears on the cheeks or bridge of the nose) can be a symptom of lupus, while tiny red dots under the skin may indicate vitamin deficiencies or potential infections.
“Overall, keeping an eye on the emergence of new rashes can help people spot dangerous conditions as early as possible. That said, itchy, dry and scaly patches of skin are quite normal for people suffering from skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea.”
The Patient Info website has more information on different types of skin rashes and their causes.
Note: If you develop a rash that doesn’t disappear quickly, doesn’t fade with pressure, or you feel unwell with it, it’s important to seek urgent medical attention.
3. Texture changes
Changes in skin texture, such as roughness, dryness, scaling, thickening, or even unusual smoothness, can reveal potential health issues.
For example, dry, scaly, or rough skin may signal hypothyroidism or kidney problems, while skin thickening or hardening can be a symptom of autoimmune diseases, like systemic sclerosis.
Dr Donald Grant says, “It’s vital to keep an eye on any skin texture changes, as this can be a sign of certain health conditions, such as diabetes, as well as hormone imbalances or dehydrated skin.
“Should skin become more thickened or ‘velvety’, it’s important to book an appointment with a GP as this may signal a more chronic illness.”
4. Swollen skin
Research suggests that skin swelling can be a symptom of several health conditions. This can range from minor concerns, like insect bites, to more serious issues such as heart, liver, or kidney problems. For example, conditions like lupus or psoriasis can cause the immune system to attack healthy tissues, resulting in swelling and inflammation.
Dr Donald Grant says, “Another way skin can indicate illness or disease is through swelling and lumps. In particular, swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of poor health and are generally caused by viral or bacterial infections. While swollen lymph nodes typically get better in a week or two, extended periods of swelling could suggest more dangerous conditions, such as lymphoma.
“As lumps come with a cancer risk, it’s important that anyone unsure about their skin changes seeks urgent medical advice and assessment. Spotting cancers early can massively boost the chances of recovery.”
5. Clammy skin
Clammy skin is often a result of the body’s natural response to stress or overheating. However, if it isn’t in response to either of these things, it may be a sign of an underlying health condition.
Dr Donald Grant says, “Changes in skin temperature, including clammy skin, can sometimes signal various health issues, including kidney infections, low blood sugar, the flu, and an overactive thyroid gland. Other lifestyle factors that can bring on skin temperature changes include menopause and alcohol dependence.”
For further reading, head over to our health news section.
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