Skin disease is an umbrella term for a variety of other commonly known disorders. Acne, vitiligo, dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema and rosacea are all types of skin diseases. Symptoms of skin disease can be mild to extreme and may include changes in skin color, texture, and the presence of burning or painful sensations.
Change in Color
One major symptom of a possible skin disorder is a conspicuous change in color of the skin. This may appear as a darkening or lightening in the current shade of the skin or a complete change in color tone. Often times with skin diseases such as vitiligo, the skin may change color drastically. This can be more noticeable in darker skin since the change causes the skin to lighten dramatically. Other skin diseases such as acne can cause the skin to take on a deep reddish tone because of the blood- and bacteria-filled pimples in a region. Thomas P. Habif, in "Clinical Dermatology: Expert Consult," says that the main symptoms of the disease rosacea include reddish patches, visibly broken blood vessels on the skin's surface, little red bumps, cysts, and red or itchy eyes.
Changes in Texture
Another symptom commonly associated with skin diseases are changes in texture. Acne causes the underlying skin to swell because of a bacterial infection that blocks the pores on the surface of the skin. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases says that psoriasis causes patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. These are often found on the elbows, knees, other parts of the legs, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet. Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a long-term skin disease. The most common symptoms are dry and itchy skin and rashes on the face, inside the elbows, behind the knees and on the hands and feet. Melanoma, usually in the form of a mole, is a type of skin disease that may increase in size and diameter and is characterized by ragged, blurred, or irregular edges.
Itching, Burning or Similar Pain
Pain or discomfort with a skin disease is another common symptom. Rashes, or basic dermatitis, are often associated with dry and itchy skin. Acne can also be accompanied by slight tingling or burning sensations in specific locations where the skin is more sensitive. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports that acne is the most common skin disease; an estimated 80 percent of all people have acne at some point. Psoriasis is another skin disease that can cause the skin to feel itchy or sore because of swelling and scaling. A dermatologist or doctor can help you develop a good skin care program and help you learn which things to avoid that may lead to flares.
References
- Clinical Dermatology: Expert Consult; Thomas P. Habif MD; 2009
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
