Signs of skin and scalp conditions

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.