Skin spots: When discolorations hint at serious health risks
Have you noticed spots around your neck and neckline? It could be a warning signal. These discolorations can occur for various reasons, such as prolonged sun exposure or allergic reactions, and sometimes they may be associated with more serious conditions. Wondering what to look for? Keep reading!
5:02 PM EST, November 4, 2024
Pimples and blisters on the skin may indicate a fungal infection. For many people, this can be a significant issue. This fairly troublesome condition won't go away on its own. Fungal infections spread from people or animals, and when they affect the neck, reddened patches may appear, surrounded by noticeable swelling with pimples and nodules on the edges, known as an active border. Such changes may flake and itch.
Skin cancer? You might observe symptoms on your neck
Sometimes, strange discolorations appearing on the neck or other body parts may be a sign of skin cancer. When you see itchy, painful, and irregular spots that do not vanish or heal, and they change color and grow in size, you should quickly contact a doctor. Appropriate action in such a situation is absolutely crucial.
When you notice skin spots, it may indicate liver problems, such as inflammation, cirrhosis, or cancer. In such cases, spider veins may also appear in the neck or face regions. Quick diagnosis and lifestyle changes are necessary in this situation.
Skin discolorations can be dangerous
Pigmentation disorders are unique signs to observe. They are visible on the lips, eyes, hands, and other areas most exposed to the sun. They mainly point to one condition. Darker changes, with a metallic-brown tint, can result from hemochromatosis—the accumulation of hemosiderin and overproduction of melanin.
However, brown discolorations on the neckline can often result from persistent and untreated post-inflammatory changes, such as prolonged acne or insect bites.
In some situations, spots appear on the conjunctiva or the mucous membrane of the cheeks. Jaundice, noticeable on the skin or whites of the eyes, is often a sign of viral hepatitis B. Treating this condition requires the use of specialized medications and often a hospital visit.