18 Key Symptoms of Lichen Planus You Need to Recognize

9. Vision Problems

Patients may experience lichen planus that affects their eyes. Thankfully, this is rare. However, when it does occur, lichen planus affects the mucous membranes in the eyes. Individuals will often deal with vision problems when this happens. Vision problems due to lichen planus can start because of scarring in and around the eyes. These problems may start as blurry vision or eye pain. Unfortunately, patients may eventually experience blindness when lichen planus affects the mucous membranes in their eyes. This is why prompt treatment for lichen planus when it affects the eyes is crucial.

10. Swallowing Difficulties

Many patients with the oral form of lichen planus will deal with some swallowing difficulties. The reason for this particular symptom is the lesions that develop inside the patient’s mouth. These lesions can be white streaks, though some patients will experience red and raised patches. They may also have open sores in their mouth. The pain from the sores can make swallowing food and beverages harder. This is another reason why patients may want to avoid eating spicy or acidic foods, which carry a higher risk of irritation than others. Soft and bland foods, such as oatmeal, mashed potatoes, or applesauce, can be helpful.