Many periodically encounter various formations on the skin. Some spots may resemble lichen. But far from always the cause of spots on the skin lies in this disease.
Spots on the skin, similar to lichen - what is it?
The reasons why spots may appear on the skin are more than enough, even if you do not take into account such a common infectious disease as lichen.
These can be hemorrhagic and hyperemic spots, a consequence of hyperpigmentation, chronic infectious diseases, stress, decreased immunity, vitamin deficiency, various skin diseases and allergic reactions.
All of them, according to certain signs, may seem similar to one of the types of lichen. If the spots on the skin, similar to lichen, itch, it is worthwhile to undergo a diagnosis for exposure to the herpes virus, which can lead to similar consequences. In the case when there is no desire to scratch the stain, it is worth looking for other reasons that without the help of a doctor will be difficult to establish.
What does lichen look like
If spots appear on the body that resemble lichen, then perhaps these are the symptoms of this disease. In this case, it makes sense to pay attention to the various manifestations of this disease.
In fact, spots are a consequence of the effect of infection on the skin. The fungus itself is able to be transmitted by contact-household means. And if we talk specifically about lichen, then it is worth noting that such a disease manifests itself most often in those people whose immune system has weakened.
If spots on the skin, similar to lichen, have been fixed, they should be compared with certain visible manifestations that are characteristic of this infectious disease:
- peeling on the affected area of โโthe skin;
- skin itching;
- spots that appear on the skin have various shades;
- there is a violation of the pigmentation of the skin (noticeable darkening or lightening);
- hair loss in the spot.
If such symptoms are present, then there is every reason to suspect one of the types of lichen.
White spots
For a better understanding of the topic, more attention should be paid to the reasons why spots appear on the skin, similar to lichen, but do not deprive it at the same time become their cause.
As one of the main reasons, idiopathic teardrop-shaped hypomelanosis can be distinguished. It looks like this: white flat spots appear on the body, the size of which is approximately 2-5 mm. The skin to the touch with hypomelanosis can be both smooth and scaly. This problem occurs mainly among representatives of the female part of the population. In most cases, spots appear on those areas of the skin that are most exposed to sunlight, that is, on the lower leg, forearms, face and shoulders.
It is not yet possible to determine the exact causes of the appearance of such formations, but it is generally believed that the main factor is the process of natural aging. Such an assumption is made on the basis of the fact that such spots on the skin, similar to lichen, appear after 40.
Another cause of white spots can be poor nutrition, no matter how commonplace it may sound. This symptom is often a lack of vitamins E and D, as well as calcium. Spots of this kind do not carry any kind of threat and are eliminated with a balanced diet.
Lichen white
As mentioned above, spots on the skin, similar to lichen, are sometimes the result of this disease. Therefore, it is worth considering the option of an infectious disease.
According to doctors, the causative agent of this disease are fungi that block the flow of ultraviolet radiation to the skin. Most often, this problem persecutes those who have had to suffer from atopic dermatitis.
As for the symptoms, it is most pronounced at the age of 1 to 16 years. People of mature age can also get white lichen, but it does not cause them any special problems and, as a rule, passes without any intervention.
With this disease, white spots on the skin can have a size of up to 4 cm. In winter, they can become inflamed, and in the warm season peel off. In some cases, patients experience a slight itching sensation. With such symptoms, you should consult a dermatologist who is able to determine the exact reason why spots appeared on the skin, similar to lichen. Treatment, of course, will be determined depending on the diagnosis, since in some cases such symptoms appear in the initial stage of development of atopic dermatitis, which is also a rather serious disease.
Why red spots appear
Such formations on the skin can be the result of exposure to an infectious disease, an allergic reaction, and also have an inflammatory nature.
Initially, it is worth paying attention to such a factor as allergy. The fact is that such a diagnosis is quite common and needs a competent reaction.
Stains on the skin, similar to lichen (photos are available in the review), as a manifestation of an allergic reaction, usually become noticeable after contact with the allergen. The latter may be a new cosmetic product or any food product.
In some cases, even flowering plants can lead to an allergic reaction. To neutralize stains, it is worth using a soothing cream and antihistamines. But it is important to remember that with every new contact with a source of irritation there is a risk of new reactions. Therefore, it is worth consulting with a doctor and identifying a specific allergen.
Infectious diseases
This group of diseases can also lead to the appearance of spots on the skin, similar to lichen. How to treat such a problem can only be determined after a specific diagnosis is established.
These diseases include chickenpox, scarlet fever, measles, rubella, etc. In some cases, the presence of red spots indicates the manifestation of sexually transmitted diseases. One common option that causes a red rash is syphilis. Therefore, in some cases, it makes sense to consult with a venereologist.
A specific infectious dermatological disease can lead to similar symptoms. As an example of such a disease, pink lichen should be considered. It leads to the appearance of pink spots on the body, which are very similar to an allergic reaction. Within a few days, such spots acquire a rounded shape.
Fungal lesions should not be ruled out. However, they can manifest themselves in different ways, so for effective treatment, do not neglect the advice of a doctor.
Dermatoses
Studying the factors that cause spots on the skin, similar to lichen, you need to pay attention to noncommunicable diseases. The most common among this group of diseases is eczema. It can develop under the influence of various factors. This can be internal, hereditary diseases, thermal, chemical and mechanical irritants, and in some cases stress.
Many experts as a cause of eczema and other dermatoses determine disorders in the functioning of the nervous system. With such diseases, red spots appear on the skin, which turn into the form of vesicles, and after that - sores.
Lichen spots
When spots appear on the skin, similar to lichen (in a child or an adult - it doesnโt matter), in some cases, the cause, as mentioned above, may be a disease, which in fact is a deprivation. In any case, you should not exclude this possibility.
In order to get a clearer idea of โโhow the spots look with such a disease, it is worthwhile to briefly consider all its types:
- lichen planus. The color of the spots is purple, and they can appear both on the skin and on the mucous membrane.
- Pink lichen giber. In this case, the patient has to observe red or pink sections of the dermis, which have a clearly limited shape and begin to peel off shortly after the appearance. In the area of โโthese formations, itching is felt.
- Ringworm . Such spots itch and flaky. Moreover, hair loss occurs at their location.
- Tinea . The consequence of this disease is the appearance of red spots that are covered with blisters.
- Pityriasis versicolor versicolor. With this type of disease, the spots are slightly flaky and have a pale tint.
As a rule, lichen is treated for a long period of time.
How to treat dermatoses
If spots appear on the skin, similar to lichen, treatment with folk remedies may include various methods. But in the case of dermatoses and eczema, in particular, it is worth paying attention to the following recipes:
- It is necessary to take a tablespoon of the roots of a large burdock and dandelion, pour them with three glasses of water and insist all night. In the morning, boil the resulting infusion for 10 minutes and leave for another 20 minutes. Such an infusion should be drunk in 0.5 cups, and at least 5 times a day. As for the duration of such treatment, it is carried out for 3 weeks.
- Treatment of eczema with lemon. Juice squeezed from 5 lemons should be drunk during the day. The next day, the dose increases to the volume of juice obtained from 10 lemons. Each subsequent day you need to add 5 pieces, up to an amount equal to 25 citrus plants. Once this level is reached, it is necessary to reduce by 5 pcs. lemons every day. In order to protect tooth enamel when drinking juice, it is better to drink it through a tube, and then rinse your mouth thoroughly.
- Take equal shares of gentian, yarrow and roots of Elecampane high, boil them in water (0.5 l) and insist for half an hour. The resulting infusion should be taken one tablespoon before a meal.
- For external exposure, you need to wash and peel the raw potato tubers and rub them on a fine grater. The resulting slurry must be wrapped with gauze and fixed in the place that is affected by the disease. After 2 hours, the dressing should be changed. It is recommended to add 2 teaspoons of honey to the potato gruel.
Allergy Effects
Initially, it is worth noting that the most effective method of dealing with a similar problem is to isolate the patient from the allergen. If this is not done, then numerous attempts to influence the skin may be unsuccessful. To determine the allergen, you should undergo a medical examination.
At the same time, there are folk methods that it makes sense to use when spots appear on the skin, similar to lichen. Treatment with different methods in this case may involve the use of oral solutions, lotions and tinctures. But if you want to go the simplest way, then you can buy a herbal collection in the pharmacy for the treatment of allergies.
As for other folk methods, the following ingredients are most often used:
- Spirea. It is used as a decoction.
- Mumiye. From it, solutions are prepared for internal use, as well as for the treatment of allergic rashes.
- Peppermint. This grass needs to be steamed and drunk.
- Stinging nettles. Its leaves are used to make a decoction.
- Calendula flowers. It is necessary to pour boiling water and take inside.
- Deaf nettle. In this case, you need to use the flowers of this plant, which are crushed and poured with boiling water. Such a solution is taken orally.
- Fruits of fragrant dill. It is also poured with boiling water and taken orally. Especially relevant for allergic dermatitis.
- Young leaves and dry buds of birch. The same scheme is used as in the previous cases.
It is worth repeating the idea that before starting treatment, you need to determine the allergen, since some of the above plants can cause an allergic reaction in specific people, although they are directed against its treatment.
What to do with lichen
When you have to deal with this disease, the first thing you need to pay attention to is a pharmacy chamomile. It can be used to make medicinal tea or compresses.
To neutralize lichen spots, it makes sense to also use kefir or sour cream. They must be applied to the affected areas 5 minutes before showering. This will help relieve inflammation and soften the skin.
Oatmeal baths have proven their effectiveness. It is a bathtub filled with warm water, in which a cup of ground oatmeal is added, as well as a few drops of peppermint essential oil and 0.5 l of milk.
Dark spots
If you have to deal with a problem such as age spots, it makes sense to use a mask of parsley.
To prepare it, 100 g of greens are crushed, after which several drops of lemon juice and a spoon of honey are added. The resulting slurry is superimposed on areas with hyperpigmentation and lasts up to 30 minutes.
conclusions
When spots appear on the skin, similar to lichen (we posted a photo in the review), you need to approach the treatment process in an integrated manner. This means that the maximum result can be obtained only by combining folk methods with the resources of modern medicine. Therefore, regardless of the cause of the spots, do not ignore the help of a doctor.