Ichthyosis vulgaris: The Scaly Skin Disease

Ichthyosis vulgaris: The Scaly Skin Disease

Ichthyosis vulgaris is a skin disease which causes dry, scaly and thick skin. Ichthyosis vulgaris is common in children but can affect adults as well. Children normally acquire this skin disease from their parents. That is, ichthyosis vulgaris is genetic. It can also be caused by gene mutation. Ichthyosis vulgaris affects a lot of people. Know the causes and symptoms of this scaly skin disease to avoid it.

Causes of Ichthyosis vulgaris

1. The main cause of Ichthyosis vulgaris is genetic.

2. Ichthyosis vulgaris can also be caused by illnesses such as kidney disease.

3. Gene mutation which occurs during fetal development

4. Some medications

5. Suppressed immune system

In ichthyosis vulgaris, dead skin cells do not shed off enough or, in time, this causes dried scaly skin. Also, when skin cells are produced, they do not seperate at the skin surface, making the skin thick and scaly. Don’t ignore this scaly skin disease called ichthyosis vulgaris. It can cause depression.

See also: Effects of Smoking on  Skin

Symptoms of Ichthyosis vulgaris

1. Thick scaly skin which looks dirty

2. Dry skin

3. Itchy skin

4. White, brown scales on the arms, legs, stomach.

5. Rough lumps on the thighs, stomach and arms.

6. Extra painful lines in the palms and the soles of the feet.

7. Unable to sweat well, which can cause overheating because of your inability to sweat well.

Complications of Ichthyosis vulgaris

1. Asthma in children

2. Hay fever

3. Skin Infections

4. Depression due to the nature of your skin.

What to do Before Seeing Your Doctor

1. Take note of when the condition starts

2. Find out if any of your close relatives have ever had this condition before

3. Write down any medication you are taking

4. Write down any chronic condition you are having, if any

Home management

1. Drink enough water to keep your skin hydrated

2. Bath two or three times daily

3. Apply petroleum jelly on the affected skin before bathing to minimize the burning sensation that the water might cause.

4. Bath with warm salt water.

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Reference: my.clevelandclinic.org

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