Lichen planus is a painful condition that leads to the swelling and irritation of your mucous membranes, nails, hair and skin. Symptoms and causes vary on a case-by-case basis. However, one thing is consistent among all cases: this condition negatively affects your quality of life. At Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, TN, we want you to know that you don’t have to suffer forever. Today, we reveal everything you wanted to know about this condition, including its triggers.
Do I Have Lichen Planus?
The signs and symptoms of lichen planus vary depending on the part of the body affected. Signs you may suffer from this condition include:
- Painful vaginal or oral sores
- Severe itching
- Alopecia
- Blisters which break and scab or crust
- Lacy white patches in or around the mouth
- Flat, purplish bumps
- Nail damage or loss
- Change in the color of your scalp
When Should I See a Doctor?
You should seek medical attention as soon as you notice a rash-like condition or tiny bumps on your skin that appear for seemingly no reason. For example, if you have no known contact allergies and you haven’t come into contact with any poison ivy, there is no known reason for your rash.
You should also see a Board Certified dermatologist if you experience any of the above signs or symptoms affecting your nails, scalp, genitals or mouth. This is more serious than the condition affecting your wrists, ankles or inner forearms. It’s important to receive an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment because many mucosal and skin conditions can cause discomfort, itching and lesions.
What Triggers Lichen Planus?
The trigger of lichen planus is a hyperactive immune system. This condition occurs when your immune system begins to attack mucous membrane or skin cells which are not actually a threat to your body. This is an idiopathic condition, meaning there is no precisely known cause. However, medical professionals are aware of several conditions that may trigger it. These include:
- Flu vaccinations
- Analgesics
- Hepatitis C infection
- Heart and joint medications
- Certain metals, chemicals and pigments
Who Is Most At Risk?
The leading risk factor of this condition when it attacks the body is simple age. Middle-aged people are at greatest risk. The most significant risk factor when it comes to an attack on lips, cheek and tongue is your sex. Women are more at risk for this type of outbreak than men.
If you think you suffer from this condition, especially if you see white patches in or around your mouth, contact a dermatologist right away. If left untreated, the oral iteration of this condition can lead to oral cancer. Lichen planus of the ear, if left untreated, can lead to hearing loss.
Improve Skin Comfort Today
Skin conditions are more than just unsightly. They can be downright painful, and a quick, accurate diagnosis is essential for rapid relief. To learn more about lichen planus, contact the dedicated skin care experts at Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, TN today to schedule your initial consultation.
