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Signs of skin and scalp conditions

Mar 7, 2012

Behaviors that may be telling you about a skin disorder:

  • Repeatedly scratching irritated skin
  • Rubbing eyes
  • Compulsive manipulation of any part of body

Other factors that may indicate the presence of skin disorders:

  • Family history of skin disorders
  • Personal history of asthma or skin disorders
  • Allergy to medications, such as aspirin or opiates
  • Rash that appears after exposure to sunlight
  • Rash that itches, oozes, scales, blisters, is red, bumpy
  • Dandruff that clings to hair (may be lice, rather than dandruff)
  • Eye irritation: sore, bleary, burning, or itching
  • Skin is dry or cracked
  • Skin sores, ulcers, blisters that don't heal
  • Discomfort increases in hot weather, when humidity is too high or too low, in winter when furnaces are turned on
  • Wearing wool or polyester aggravates problems
  • Redness or swelling around toenails or fingernails (check to be sure a thread or hair isn't wrapped around a toe); moist areas between toes; poorly trimmed or ingrown toenails
  • Digging in rectal or pubic area
  • Inability to change position without help
  • Use of splints, braces, or a wheelchair for long periods of time
  • Skin is red, feels hot; symptoms last more than 20-30 minutes

Do you think someone's behavior may be telling you about a skin or scalp condition? Talk with your doctor or other health care provider. They can work with you to learn whether this is the case.