Ways Your Skin Reveals Underlying Health Issues

Pale Skin Or Loss Of Pigmentation

Paler skin or the loss of pigmentation in one's skin may not just be genetics. A loss of pigmentation could be the body's way of indicating the patient is suffering from anemia. Anemia is a vitamin B-12, B-6, folate, or iron deficiency, and it occurs more often in individuals who follow a vegan diet, who have issues with (nutrient) absorption and digestion, or who are taking specific medications such as antacids and metformin. A loss of pigmentation can also reveal an individual could be dealing with Vitiligo, a long-term condition caused by a lack of melanin or pigment in the skin. White patches develop on the skin, more commonly appearing on the face, neck, hands, and in skin creases.

Blisters

Cracks and blisters appearing on the corner of the mouth can indicate another dietary issue. Blisters, cracking, or crusting around the mouth area can indicate an individual is suffering from iron and vitamin B deficiencies, especially with B-2 and B-12. On a more serious note, blisters that appear infected around the mouth area can indicate a patient has contracted Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1, which can be treated and controlled with medication. If a patient believes they have contracted either herpes type 1 or 2, they should seek medical attention immediately and take a blood test to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Blisters on other parts of the body can be caused by friction, cold or heat such as burning one's self, dermatitis or an allergic reaction, or the more serious chickenpox or shingles.