What do changes in appearance indicate? The body says more than you think

Skin a mirror of health - what does its appearance indicate?

Skin tone varies naturally and depends on many factors, including ethnicity. However, excessive pallor can be a signal of the body's current condition. In some cases, it is a temporary phenomenon, such as one caused by a headache, strong emotions or lack of sleep. When it persists longer, however, it can indicate more serious conditions like anemia (anemia) or thyroid disorders.

Discoloration can also be a signal of health problems. Darker, smooth skin appearing on the nape of the neck, in the armpits or under the arms, known as dark keratosis, is not the result of pollution, but a symptom of disease. It often accompanies insulin resistance, obesity or hormonal disorders. It is worth paying attention to these symptoms and consulting a doctor if necessary.

Moles and moles - harmless or dangerous?

Convex moles, or pigmented nevi, occur in about 25% of the population and in most cases are completely harmless. Some of them disappear on their own before we manage to notice them. Nevertheless, some moles can indicate more serious health problems, such as diabetes and even skin cancers, including melanoma. Special attention should be paid to moles that itch, change color, shape or size - these are signals that should not be ignored.

Melanoma is one of the most aggressive types of cancer, so early detection of lesions increases the chances of successful treatment. A visit to a dermatologist, who will assess the condition of nevi with the help of a dermatoscope, should be part of preventive health care, especially for people with fair complexions, frequent sun exposure or numerous moles.

If a doctor recommends removal of a mole, the procedure is quick, virtually painless and performed on an outpatient basis. Depending on the nature of the lesion, various methods can be used, including surgical excision, laser therapy or electrocoagulation. Importantly, each nevus removed is sent for histopathological examination to rule out possible cancerous lesions.

Dry skin - is it just a lack of hydration?

Dry, rough skin on knees and elbows is not just an aesthetic problem - it can also be a sign of health problems like hypothyroidism. In this condition, the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, which slows down the body's metabolic processes, including skin regeneration and hydration.

If, despite intensive moisturizing treatments, scrubs or massages, the effect is short-lived, it is worth considering the cause of the problem. Other symptoms that can accompany hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, hair loss and brittle nails.

Feet - a valuable source of health information

Feet can tell a lot about the health of the body. It is worth taking a close look at them - is the skin on them smooth and healthy? Even innocent cracks between the toes can be the first sign of developing ringworm. At the initial stage, the infection is even unnoticeable, but over time more pronounced symptoms appear, including redness, itching, peeling skin and even painful cracks and burning.

Tinea pedis is not only an aesthetic problem, but also a health problem. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, such as nails or hands, and increase the risk of secondary bacterial infections. Fungal diseases are also extremely difficult to treat, especially if they are trivialized at an early stage.

Corns - a minor problem or a signal of diabetes?

These painless thickening of the skin, usually formed by pressure or friction, can sometimes indicate changes in the body that are worth diagnosing. For people with diabetes, corns are the first sign that the blood vessels and nerves in the feet are not functioning properly. High blood glucose levels lead to peripheral nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) and deterioration of the blood supply to the lower extremities. Over time, these changes can contribute to the development of what is known as diabetic foot - a serious condition with hard-to-heal wounds, infections and, in the most severe cases, tissue necrosis.

Diabetic foot - how to avoid serious consequences?

Diabetic foot is one of the most serious complications of diabetes, leading to hard-to-heal wounds, infections, and in extreme cases amputation may be necessary. The most important thing is to maintain proper blood glucose levels and regularly monitor the condition of the feet. Early notice of minor changes like the aforementioned cracks, corns or redness can prevent the development of more serious problems. Daily hygiene, use of moisturizing creams and wearing comfortable, well-fitting footwear that does not cause pressure or chafing are important. Regular visits to the doctor, including consultations with a podiatrist, will help detect and treat changes in the early stages.

Hormones and weight loss difficulties

Intense exercise that does not produce the desired results may be related to hormonal disorders. Hormones play an important role in regulating metabolism, energy levels and fat breakdown. Some of them like cortisol, leptin, insulin and thyroid hormones promote fat deposition in areas that are difficult to reduce, especially in the abdominal area.

Cortisol - the stress hormone and fat tissue

Excessive production of cortisol, the hormone responsible for the body's response to stress, can lead to fat storage in distinctive areas of the body like the abdomen, chest and face. Although cortisol is necessary for the body to function properly, elevated levels over an extended period of time cause negative health effects.

Chronically high levels of cortisol can lead to the development of Cushing's syndrome, a serious endocrine disorder. Among other symptoms, it manifests as central obesity, characteristic stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs and buttocks, acne on the face, and thin limbs. In addition, systemic symptoms can occur, including hypertension, osteoporosis or diabetes, which significantly reduce quality of life.

Leptin - why do we stop feeling satiety?

Leptin is a hormone that plays an important role in regulating the body's appetite and energy management. Its level rises with the amount of body fat, giving the body information about sufficient energy stores. In practice, leptin acts as an internal signaler, telling the brain when to finish a meal, which helps maintain energy balance.

Sometimes, however, the mechanism of action of leptin is disrupted. A situation occurs in which the body becomes resistant to its signals - this condition is called leptin resistance. As a result, the brain ignores messages of satiety, making the sense of hunger persist and the almost constant need to eat is felt. This condition not only makes it difficult to control weight, but also promotes further fat accumulation.

Androgens and insulin - their effects on the female body

Elevated levels of androgens, or male hormones, in a woman's body combined with excessive insulin levels often lead to weight gain and increased body fat, especially in the abdominal area. Such hormonal disorders are characteristic of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which, according to WHO data, affects about 1 in 10 women of childbearing age.

PCOS is a complex set of symptoms that not only affects weight, but can also lead to fertility problems, irregular menstrual cycles or excessive body hair. Fat gain, especially in the abdominal region, is one of the visible symptoms of the condition, and insulin resistance makes weight control even more difficult.

TSH - thyroid hormones vs. weight

Thyroid problems affect one in five Poles (by far more often diagnosed in women). One of the basic tests to assess the functioning of the thyroid gland is to measure the level of the hormone TSH in the blood. The hormone has an important function in regulating metabolism, body temperature and supports the proper functioning of organs like the heart and brain. That's why thyroid dysfunction manifests itself as drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness or feeling cold, among other symptoms.

One of the characteristic symptoms of hypothyroidism is overweight, associated with a weakened metabolic rate. In such cases, dietary changes and regular physical activity are usually not enough to achieve satisfactory results without appropriate drug treatment. 

Why does hair fall out? The most common causes

Stress, hormonal disorders (such as hypothyroidism), anemia or vitamin D deficiency are most often responsible for excessive hair loss. 

Hormonal disorders and hair loss

Hormonal disorders can lead to weakened hair follicles, slower hair growth and even excessive hair loss. One of the most common reasons for hair loss is thyroid problems - hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. In hypothyroidism, hair becomes dry, brittle and hair loss increases, while hyperthyroidism leads to thinning hair all over the head. Another hormonal disorder affecting hair condition is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), in which elevated androgen levels also cause male pattern baldness in women.

Another hormonal factor affecting hair is pregnancy and the postpartum period. During pregnancy, estrogen levels rise, which prolongs the hair growth phase, but after delivery, the decline often leads to hair loss, known as postpartum alopecia.

Menopause is another stage in which hormonal disturbances negatively affect hair. A decrease in estrogen levels and an increase in androgens can lead to thinning hair and changes in hair texture.

To effectively deal with hair loss caused by hormonal disorders, proper diagnosis is important. Blood tests, assessing the levels of TSH, sex hormones or other markers, will help identify the cause of the problem. 

Read also: What is the FUE method and is it an effective way to restore hair density?

Stress and its effect on hair condition

Stress-related hair loss, known as telogen hair loss, is one of the most common problems that occur in response to intense emotional or physical stress on the body. In such situations, the body increases the production of cortisol, a stress hormone that disrupts the hair's life cycle. Under normal conditions, most hair is in the growth phase (anagen), but stress accelerates the transition of more hair to the resting phase (telogen). As a result, after about 2-3 months, excessive hair loss is noticed.

Nutrient deficiencies

Healthy hair is not only the result of proper care, but also a proper diet. Nutrient deficiencies weaken hair follicles, slow their growth and lead to excessive hair loss. Hair, being one of the fastest growing structures in the body, is extremely sensitive to lack of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals and protein.

What ingredients are important for hair health?

• Iron - iron deficiency, especially in women, is one of the most common causes of hair loss. 
• Biotin (vitamin B7) - plays a significant role in the production of keratin, the main building block of hair. Its deficiency can lead to thinning hair and weakened hair.
• Zinc - the element supports cell regeneration and maintains scalp health. Zinc deficiency can cause hair breakage and excessive hair loss.
• Vitamin D - supports the life cycle of the hair and plays an important role in the health of hair follicles. 
• Protein - hair is composed mainly of keratin, which is a protein. A protein deficiency in the diet can lead to weakened hair structure and hair loss.

Genetic determinants of baldness

Genetic alopecia, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss that affects both men and women. It is closely related to inherited genes and the effects of hormones like androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

In androgenetic alopecia, hair follicles become sensitive to DHT, causing them to gradually shrink. Over time, the hair becomes thinner, shorter, and its growth cycle shortens until it eventually stops growing back. In men, baldness usually begins at the bends and top of the head, while in women the process is characterized by a uniform thinning of the hair, usually in the parting area.

FAQ

Can pale skin be a symptom of disease?

Yes, pale skin can indicate temporary weakness in the body, such as from fatigue, headaches or lack of sleep. However, persistent pallor can be a symptom of anemia (anemia) or thyroid problems. It is worth consulting a doctor for diagnosis.

What can dark discoloration on the neck or under the arms mean?

Darker, smooth patches on the nape of the neck, near the armpits or under the arms are known as dark keratosis, which can be a sign of insulin resistance, obesity or hormonal disorders. If they appear, a visit to the doctor is recommended.

Are moles on the skin dangerous?

Most moles are harmless, but changes in their appearance, such as itching, redness, change in color or shape, may indicate skin cancer, including melanoma.

What does dry skin on knees and elbows mean?

Dry, rough skin on the knees and elbows can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, especially if it is accompanied by a feeling of coldness, lethargy or memory problems. In such cases, it's worth testing thyroid hormone levels.

Can fingernails indicate a health condition?

Yes, changes in the color, thickness or texture of nails can indicate health problems. Brittle nails indicate nutrient deficiencies, while thickened and yellowish nails indicate fungal infections, for example.

Why can't I lose weight from my abdominal area?

Difficulty in shedding belly fat is often associated with hormonal disorders like elevated cortisol levels, insulin resistance or thyroid problems. It is worth testing hormone levels to identify the cause.

Could hair loss indicate a health problem?

Excessive hair loss can be associated with vitamin deficiencies (e.g. biotin, iron), stress, hormonal disorders like hypothyroidism, or autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata.

What does a chronic feeling of cold mean?

Feeling cold, especially when combined with dry skin, lethargy and memory problems, can indicate hypothyroidism. It's a good idea to test TSH and other thyroid hormone levels.

How do diet and lifestyle affect body image?

An unhealthy diet, lack of sleep and physical activity can lead to nutrient deficiencies, which manifests as dry skin, brittle nails, weakened hair or difficulty maintaining a healthy weight.