Your largest organ is your skin — it covers your entire body; taking care of it is important, especially since it impacts such a large area. This could involve moisturizing or seeking treatment for resolving rashes or acne. When it comes to overall health, sometimes your first warning sign that something is wrong appears on the surface.
When you think of acne, you might picture your teenage self going through puberty. Acne can happen at any stage of life, and it isn’t always puberty-related. It’s not all about clogged pores and oily skin, either. Some medical conditions can cause acne. Poor gut health, pregnancy, or high cholesterol are just a few causes.
If you have an unexplained breakout that won’t go away, don’t ignore it. There’s likely a treatment available, and something else might be wrong. Keep reading to learn about some medical conditions that can cause acne.
1. Unhealthy Gut Syndrome
While this is a relatively new term, you’ve likely heard about the importance of a healthy gut. Did you know there are good and bad types of bacteria? Fostering a healthy gut microbiome ensures good bacteria work for you. Your skin can be an outward reflection of what is happening inside. What’s happening in your gastrointestinal system might show up as blemishes to alert you something is off.
When your GI system is off-kilter, it can lead to several acne triggers. When the bad bacteria overtake the good, your immune system becomes inflamed. Acne is an inflammatory response, so added swelling worsens the condition. Higher insulin levels from your foods can also lead to blemishes. A stressed stomach adds to your body’s overall stress, which can lead to breakouts.
If you keep dealing with acne, look at what you’re eating. You might need to adjust your diet to get your gut microbiome in check. Once you’ve squared that away, seek a prescription acne treatment if you still are breaking out. It’s simpler than you might think. You can even do an online consultation and send your prescription to your door.
2. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
It’s no secret that hormonal shifts can wreak havoc on a clear complexion. For women, this can occur throughout life. You might experience breakouts with each monthly cycle as your hormones shift. Breakouts could be a sign of issues within your reproductive system, though. For instance, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one medical condition that can increase breakouts.
Some symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and facial hair. In addition to acne, the increased facial hair often accompanying PCOS can create ingrown hairs. It would be best if yedOvarian cysts and the fluctuations that come with them can also tarnish your clear skin. It would be best to treat PCOS before your acne can be treated.
On both ends of the reproductive cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can increase blemishes. These changes impact many of your systems in huge ways. Starting or changing birth control can help with acne, as it can help balance hormones. Speak with a medical provider to find the best option for you.
3. Hypercholesterolemia (High Cholesterol)
Your acne could be something more than a whitehead. It might be xanthomas if you’re experiencing pimple-like lesions around your knees, buttocks, elbows, and hands. These are effectively cholesterol deposits that break out on your body. They can resolve themselves, but they’re worth keeping an eye on.
They can be a sign of high lipids and high cholesterol, increasing heart attack and stroke chances. These could also be a sign of diabetes. This skin affliction could also be a sign of an issue with the liver or certain types of cancer. You should bring this to the attention of your primary physician. Getting a checkup to test if you have high cholesterol or diabetes is a necessary first step.
Blood work and tests will likely be in order. If you have diabetes or high cholesterol, your doctor will recommend treatment or lifestyle changes. You may be able to improve your health through diet and exercise. Some medications may also be able to improve symptoms of your condition.
Pay Attention to Your Skin
Your skin is the largest organ of your body. It grows, stretches, wrinkles, and sweats. It also protects your more vulnerable organs from the outside world. Paying attention to your skin’s health can tell you vital information about what’s happening within your body. As you notice changes, take heart. Treat acne as it pops up. If it doesn’t go away, note how long it has persisted and if there have been any changes.
An underlying issue could cause your acne. If it persists, talk to your healthcare provider. Ion and preventive action can be a literal lifesaver. You might find out you have plain old acne, but it’s better to learn that than ignore something more serious. The sooner you care for what’s happening inside, the sooner you can present a clear complexion outside. A healthy you is often happier too.
