The largest organ in the body, the skin, is sometimes said to be a window into a person's general well-being, because it can carry clues about the health of other organs. Changes in the skin, ranging from discoloration to new growth, may sometimes be early signs of more serious underlying health problems. When people spot these signs, they might need to see their doctor, especially if they get worse during the time.
Rashes and patches on the skin
In general, a rash that does not respond to treatment, and is accompanied by other symptoms — such as fever, joint pain and muscle aches — could be a sign of an internal problem or infection. A rash may also occur due to an allergy or signal a reaction to a medicine, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
A velvety dark rash on the back of the neck or around the arms,known as 'acanthosis nigricans', is a sign that the patient may have an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and thus blood sugar should be checked. Less commonly, this velvety rash could be a warning sign of cancer in an internal organ, such as the stomach or liver.
On the other hand, a purple rash on the lower legs that does not respond to topical medication can be a sign of hepatitis C infection.
Bronzing of the skin and other discolorations
In people with diabetes, a bronzing of the skin can be a sign of a problem with iron metabolism. A yellowing of the skin, on the other hand, may signal liver failure, and may occur along with the yellowing of the whites of the eyes.
A darkening of the skin — mostly visible in scars and skin folds, as well as on joints, such as elbows and knees — could be a sign of hormonal disease, such as Addison's disease, which affects the adrenal glands.
New growths
People who see new growths on the skin should always have them looked at by a doctor, as they could be skin cancer, and are sometimes also a sign of internal disease or a genetic syndrome, according to the AAD.
For example, in a condition called eruptive xantomas, yellow bumps on the arms, legs or rear could be a result of high triglyceride levels, signaling uncontrolled diabetes.
The distribution pattern of acne also can provide clues about the underlying problem. In women, acne that appears mainly along the lower face or jaw line can be a sign of polycystic ovarian syndrome. The condition often causes other symptoms, such as weight changes, thinning hair and increased hair growth on the face.
Nail changes
Changes in the color or shape of nails can often be a sign of deficiency or organ system issues. For example, nail changes that look like fungal infection may actually be a result of psoriasis in the nails, even though the condition typically affects the skin. People who also have joint pain could have a form of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis.
In addition, liver and kidney problems can sometimes cause changes in the color of the nails.
Read more on nail changes.
Changes in skin's hardness and dryness
High blood pressure and kidney problems sometimes result in a thickening of the skin on the shin. Moreover, very dry, itchy skin could be a sign of hormonal problems, such as an underactive thyroid.
People with an autoimmune disease called systemic sclerosis may experience a swelling and hardening of the skin. In more severe cases, this could result in the hardening of internal organs, such as the lungs or heart, according to the AAD.
On the other hand, very loose and silky skin is a symptom of a rare connective tissue disease, called acquired cutis laxa, which could signal blood cancers such as lymphoma or multiple myeloma.
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