Share:
Skin lichen symptoms and treatment
contents
- risk factors
- Types of skin lichen
- Knötchenflechte
- Skin lichen / rash on the face
- pityriasis rosea
- psoriasis
- skin fungus
- Treat skin plaits: medicines
- Home remedy for skin lichen
risk factors
There are a number of risk factors which z. B. in the case of common psoriasis may favor the onset or worsening of the disease. These include, but are not limited to, stress, improper diet, smoking, alcohol use, certain medications, or external mechanical stimuli such as pressure or injury. If the lichen on the skin is detected early, it can usually be treated well by a local therapy with cortisone-containing preparations or antifungals (antimycotics). Some diseases, such as The psoriasis, however, often take a chronic course and occur in batches. Accordingly, it is particularly important here to avoid risk factors and to properly care for the stressed skin, whereby naturopathy can provide helpful support.
Skin lichen can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from psychological influences to existing infections. Image: casi / fotolia.com Types of skin lichen
The term "lichen" refers to various types of inflammatory skin diseases, all of which are characterized by a skin rash with a finely scaly surface, which is clearly differentiated from the healthy skin. The name refers to the similarity with the structure of lichens (for example on tree barks) from the plant world, although it is in the biological sense not at all plants, but fungi (fungi).
A common variant of dermal lichen is e.g. the lichen lichen planus (Lichen planus), other forms are psoriasis, psyllium (pityriasis rosea) and other skin fungus diseases (dermatomycoses) such as the so-called "beard lichen" or the bran fungus.
To some extent, fungal colonization on the skin is quite normal and harmless, as the body is usually able to successfully combat unimpeded proliferation by its natural defense system. Fungi become dangerous only if they can multiply uncontrollably, which is e.g. can be caused by excessive sweating or weakened defense due to chronic illness, regular medication or malnutrition.
Knötchenflechte
A relatively common form of dermal lichen is the so-called "lichen lichen" ("Lichen planus planus"). This inflammatory skin disease usually occurs between the 30th and the 60th year of life and manifests itself by an accumulation of (at the beginning) reddish to (in the further course) violet-brownish, strongly itchy, flat skin nodules (papules), which have a dull resp have waxy luster and are sharply delineated.
The papules are slightly raised and flattened in the upper part, often show after a few weeks also fine whitish, net-like lines on the surface (Wickham strips). In most cases, the nodules appear on the flexor side of the forearms and wrists, but also in the area of the ankles, loins, and in the sacral region and on the lower leg. Rarely, the trunk is also affected, also can be in a severe history, the whole body with the pinhead-sized nodules "littered".
The severely itchy skin rash usually represents a great burden for those affected, in addition to mechanical stresses such. Scratch the skin additionally irritate and thereby quickly lead to an increase in the symptoms and the formation of new nodules on hitherto unaffected areas of the skin. In addition to the skin, the lichen planus can also affect the mucous membranes (lichen planus mucosae), resulting in whitish discoloration or painful open areas. Here are most commonly affected the cheeks and the side surfaces of the tongue, but also possible are white nodules on the palate, gums or on the back of the tongue.
Rarely can the lichen planus also develop in the genital area, in men often in the area of the glans and in women on the insides of the large or small labia. In addition, it is possible that the reticular, whitish lines or small nodules - regardless of gender - also occur in the anal area, which in the case of increased inflammation can also cause oozing superficial injuries to the skin (erosions). Through the lichen planus in the genital and / or anal area, many suffer from very unpleasant symptoms, such as an itchy vagina, Afterjucken or severe burning, these symptoms often occur in combination.
In addition, infestation of the hair is possible (lichen planus follicularis or planopilaris), which leads to peeling of the skin and sometimes to hair loss. In addition, some patients show changes in the fingernails and toenails, e.g. Longitudinal grooves, pits, splits or growth disorders occur. Less common are thinning or brittle nails, which in some cases cause them to be permanently damaged and eventually fail.
The trigger for the typical skin changes in a lichen planus is the inflammation of the skin, which is caused by the fact that certain cells of the immune system attack the bottom layer of the epidermis and destroy the bottom cell layer. However, the cause of this process is still unknown, but it is often suggested that it is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to falsely attack its own skin cells.
In addition to hereditary causes and chemicals or drugs (eg antibiotics, dehydration tablets or drugs for hypertension) as a cause into consideration, as are also viral diseases of the liver (viral hepatitis), comorbidities such as diabetes, elevated cholesterol or uric acid, contact allergies (in case of infection of the oral mucosa ) against gold, amalgam, ingredients of toothpaste or similar as well as mental factors such as persistent stress, conflicts etc. possible.
Skin lichen / rash on the face
If there are reddish, flaky patches in the area of the facial hair, these may indicate a beard lichen (medical "tinea barbae"), a skin disease caused by certain fungi (mycosis), which affects only men. The fungi are so-called "filamentous fungi" (dermatophytes), which lead to a specific infection of the skin and, in contrast to other fungi, only feed on carbohydrates and keratin. Accordingly, dermatophytes affect only keratin-containing areas of the body such as skin, hair or nails and cause there the typical round, slightly scaly reddish spots, which partially wet and often lead to severe itching.
Since the initially round spots often combine with the hair follicles at the hairline, many men have small nodules or pustules, which quickly lead to an abscess or even purulent inflammation of the hair follicle and the associated tissue (boils or carbuncles ) can develop further. Although the skin disease is called "Bart lichen", the beard itself is not a prerequisite for the development and the further course, instead many people do not even have one.
In most cases, the filamentous fungi are the species "Trichophyton mentagrophytes" or "Trichophyton verrucosum", which are transmitted primarily by rodents or cattle. Therefore men are often affected by a beard lichen, which live in rural areas or which have close contact with the appropriate animals. Usually enough for a contagion e.g. already the scratching on the cheek, after previously an infected animal was touched briefly by hand.
To make matters worse, that the fungi are not only very contagious, but also survive for years and outside influences such. withstand high temperatures. Accordingly, the body's immune system plays a central role in the defense of the pathogens, while infection by immunodeficiency as a result of diabetes, circulatory disorders, certain drugs or "immunosuppressants" (such as cortisone), etc. is consequently facilitated.
pityriasis rosea
Another common form of dermal lichen is the so-called "rosenflechte" (pityriasis rosea), which is a harmless, but usually very unpleasant, inflammatory skin disease. Characteristic here is an initially single oval redness, e.g. on the upper part of the body, which is about the size of a coin, somewhat raised and sharply delimited and slightly scaly ("primary medallion"). Of this spread usually in the period of 7-14 days numerous other redness, mostly on the upper body, but also on the upper arms and thighs, face - hands and feet, however, are usually not affected.
Often the upper body is finally almost "littered" by stains, whereby these are usually hardly or not at all itchy and much smaller than the primary medallion. An itching does not occur until the skin is e.g. moisture is removed by frequent showering or excessive sweating. In addition, in rare cases, there are other symptoms such as a general malaise, constant fatigue and fatigue, headache and / or loss of appetite.
Even with the pityriasis rosea, the exact causes are not yet clear, but many experts suspect an infection with certain herpesviruses (HHV-6, HHV-7) and a genetic disposition. Also, stress and allergies are sometimes considered as favoring factors, but this is also not proven. It is clear, however, that the Röschenflechte can occur in children and adults alike, with children and adolescents and young adults are most often affected between the age of 10 and 35 years.
psoriasis
In addition, in the case of lichen-like lesions, psoriasis, which is a common non-infectious disease that is chronic in most cases, is considered. Characteristic here are red, raised skin, which are covered with shiny, silvery white scales. The flocks of psoriasis ("plaques") can be very small in some cases, but they are usually at least coin size and can occur both isolated and sharply limited as well as grow together over a large area (Psoriasis geographica).
Typical is a strong itching, moreover, the skin is usually very dry and cracked. In general, the disease occurs primarily on the extensor sides of the arms (elbows) and legs (tibial region, kneecap) and on the scalp, in addition, the buttocks, chest, back, armpits, navel or the area of the genitals or the anus to be affected. In many cases, the nails are affected in addition to the skin (nail psoriasis), which in turn leads to symptoms such as small round wells ("Tüpfelnägel"), thickened nail under skin and crumbly or extremely brittle nails.
Psoriasis is a so-called "autoimmune reaction" in which the body's own defense is directed against its own body cells. What actually triggers this reaction is so far only partially researched. However, it is certain that the susceptibility to the skin disease is hereditary. However, it does not inherit the trait, which may cause both parents to show no symptoms, while the psoriasis does appear in the child.
Accordingly, the hereditary system alone is apparently not sufficient to trigger psoriasis; instead, additional risk factors must be added so that it occurs for the first time or, in the case of an already existing disease, is intensified. These include external mechanical stimuli (such as pressure, skin injuries) as well as "internal" factors such as stress, alcohol, smoking, improper diet or medications such as interferon or beta-blockers.
Infectious diseases, obesity, hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause etc.) or climatic circumstances can be the trigger. Accordingly, basically anyone who is genetically predisposed can develop psoriasis, which in principle can happen at any age. Nevertheless, the majority of those affected suffer from "type I" or "early type" of psoriasis vulgaris, which occurs before the age of 40 and has its peak between the age of 15 and 25 years. A first outbreak in early childhood and in the elderly, however, is rather rare.
The course of a psoriasis is individually different, usually the lichen occurs chronically in the form of recurring spurts. As a result, many sufferers experience periods of severe symptoms with symptoms that are (almost) symptom-free, with the unpredictable course often leading to tremendous mental distress. Often the lichen improves in the warm months due to solar radiation, while e.g. Obesity (obesity) can aggravate the symptoms.
skin fungus
Circular, brownish spots on the skin, which mainly occur on the back and chest, may also indicate a so-called "bran fungus" (medical: "Pityriasis versicolor"). This is a non-contagious fungal disease of the skin, which is mainly caused by the yeast fungus "Malassezia furfur". The infection causes painless patches in this form of lichen, which are lighter (pityriasis versicolor alba) in people with rather dark complexions, and darker (pityriasis versicolor rubra) in paler individuals than the rest of the skin.
The size of the spots can vary greatly, so that they only appear as large as a lens, but can also cover the skin like a map. In addition, a slight itching occurs less often, is then scratched at the affected area, usually dissolve on the surface of fine, bran-like dandruff, which is why this skin disease is called "Bile fungus".
The yeast fungus Malassezia furfur belongs to almost all people to the natural skin flora, with the scalp is the main pathogen reservoir. Here, the fungus feeds primarily on the fatty substances in the sebum and usually does not lead to changes in the skin. In some cases, however, it leads to a pathological (pathogenic) proliferation of fungi, which leads to the outbreak of bran fungus.
The reasons for this development are not yet fully understood, but a number of risk factors are known, which may favor a pityriasis versicolor. These include, for example, a moist, warm climate, heavy sweating, a greasy skin due to the condition and high-fat creams and lotions, because here the fungus finds ideal growth conditions due to its high fat content and moist, warm environment.
In addition, a bran fungus can be triggered by stress, wearing synthetic clothing, lack of hygiene or certain medications (birth control pills, antibiotics, etc.), as well as a weakened immune system and certain underlying diseases such as diabetes mellitus. Since a warm and humid climate promotes the propagation of the fungus Malassezia furfur, the fungus fungus is particularly common in tropical climates where, according to information from the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) sometimes up to 40% of people are affected. According to the IQWiG, however, in countries with a moderate climate, the skin fungus only develops in an estimated one percent of the population, with young adults in particular suffering from skin patches.
If the pityriasis versicolor treated with antifungals (antifungals), it usually takes a favorable course, as the symptoms disappear and the darker or lighter-colored skin re-aligns with the normal skin color. However, since the lichen often returns even after successful treatment, a permanent treatment of the scalp is recommended to prevent recurrence, which is especially often the pathogen Malassezia furfur.
For this purpose, for example, special shampoos with fungicidal active ingredients that are used as conventional care products for everyday hair washing. In addition, sufferers should pay attention to growth-promoting factors such as Avoid airtight clothing, sweaty activities or high-fat body lotions. If the therapy of the bran mushroom remains out, the Pityriasis versicolor becomes usually chronic, whereby it occurs again and again in the warm summer months again and again.
Treat skin plaits: medicines
It is important for a skin lichen first, the scaly spots as warning signs of the body perceived as early as possible and to be examined by a dermatologist for the cause. The visit of the specialist should take place as soon as possible, because a lichen can spread quickly and thereby become a massive burden for the person concerned. The treatment of a dermal malignancy in a normal course usually initially by a local treatment of the affected skin. Depending on the cause of the lichen, special creams, lotions and ointments with different active ingredients are used, such as Cortisone, urea, clotrimazole or methotrexate.
There may also be other local forms of treatment, such as. B. the light (bath PUVA therapy), cold (cryotherapy) or laser therapy used. In the case of very severe progressions, an internal (systemic) therapy may be necessary, in which the active ingredients are absorbed into the body via tablets or injections and thereby unfold their effect in the entire organism.
In exceptional cases, a combination of local and systemic therapy may be indicated, while other forms of skin lichen often require no special treatment. If it is e.g. around a lichen planus (nodular lichen), it heals in most cases after a few weeks or months by itself.
In addition, there are also different therapeutic options, which can be used depending on the nature and severity of the disease. For the treatment of individual, smaller skin areas, e.g. Cortisone ointments or cortisone patches can be considered at short notice. In the case of extensive or rash infestations, therapy with cortisone pills can positively influence the healing process. However, care should generally be taken that the anti-inflammatory agents are not used for a long time and only in consultation with the doctor to avoid side effects of cortisone such as thin skin or red Gesichtsäderchen.
In addition to other local forms of treatment, such as. As a special form of light (PUVA therapy) or cryotherapy (cryotherapy) are used against the strong itching often cooling envelopes, ice cubes or gel pads have a soothing effect. In some cases, antihistamines can also help, but above all it is important not to scratch the affected areas of the skin in spite of the intense itching so as not to aggravate the symptoms.
If the oral mucosa (oral lichen planus) is affected, special cortisone preparations may also be used, and it is particularly important to avoid additional irritation. Accordingly, the consumption of acidic, hot and spicy or spicy foods and drinks as well as nicotine and alcohol should be avoided and careful dental and oral care should be ensured. In addition, it is advisable to have dentures checked by a doctor and replaced if necessary, as these, like caries, can also promote or aggravate nodular lichen ("Köbner phenomenon")..
If the symptoms are due to a lichen lichen, the flaky lichen also usually heal within 8-10 weeks without further treatment, leaving no scars or the like. Supportive should here, however, air-impermeable clothing and heavy sweating through sports, sauna, hot bath and shower, etc. are avoided to prevent heat accumulation, which can lead to additional irritation of the lichen and thus massive itching and severe inflammation.
Against the itching may e.g. In addition, light therapy (phototherapy) may, in some cases, have a supportive effect on the healing process. Before the red spots are treated "on their own", however, they should always be medically clarified, because of scaly redness on the upper body, numerous causes come into consideration, so not always must be present in a Röschenflechte.
Home remedy for skin lichen
In addition to the traditional medical approaches and procedures, a number of useful home remedies are available to treat a skin problem naturally and to relieve symptoms such as itching or redness. In many cases, for example, washing the affected areas several times a day with chamomile tea may help, as well as lukewarm envelopes with tar bran or healing clay can help soothe the skin and relieve the itching. Cooling compresses (ice cubes, moist compresses, etc.) have also proven effective against the itching, as well as a paste of honey and cinnamon or honey and chopped garlic, which is applied thinly to the itchy area.
A well-known home remedy for psoriasis represent buttermilk compresses, for which simply a cloth soaked in buttermilk and placed on the affected skin for about 20 minutes. As with atopic dermatitis, an ointment or oil mixture with real lavender oil can also have a nourishing and soothing effect. In addition, other medicinal plants and herbs such as, for example, lichen-like skin problems can be used. Birch trees, hay flowers, sage, thyme or juniper.
Thyme for the treatment of the skin. Picture: spline_x - fotolia The wild pansy is well suited for the treatment of skin lichen or acute and chronic skin diseases, as it contains flavonoids and saponins, which promote both the metabolism and anti-inflammatory effect. For external application is recommended here, for example an infusion which is used cooled for envelopes. For this, 1.5 grams of dried pansy weed (from the pharmacy) are boiled with 150 milliliters of water and allowed to soak for five minutes. For internal treatment, a tea cure can also provide an effective aid in dermal lichen. Here 2 teaspoons of dried pansy herb (in children 1 teaspoon) are poured over with 250 ml of boiling water and poured off after ten minutes of brewing time. Adults drink 3 to 4 cups of the finished tea every day for eight to ten weeks, and children receive a cup each morning and evening for about eight weeks.
In order to prevent skin disorders in the best possible way, above all, an intact, strong immune system is important, which acts as a "protective shield" and can successfully combat pathogens. Accordingly, a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables as well as sufficient sleep and exercise or physical activity should be taken into account at all times. Stress can also affect the immune system, because when stress hormones are released, the body automatically reduces the production of immune cells. As a result, susceptibility to pathogens increases, which under normal circumstances would have had "no chance".
Even if hectic, inner restlessness, pressure and tension can not be completely avoided in everyday life, consciously used relaxation exercises can help to reduce stress and thereby support balance and a sense of inner balance. Here are several methods and techniques such as e.g. progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, autogenic training, or yoga; psychotherapy may also be useful in some cases, e.g. Understand the causes of chronic stress and learn coping strategies. (No)
Specialist supervision: Barbara Schindewolf-Lensch (doctor)