Winter Rash Vs. CVI
Lichen Simplex Chronicus Is Not Winter Rash
The winter months bring dry, cold winter air and can often lead to itchy and flaky skin. This is known as “winter rash”. Winter rash is a temporary condition that appears and goes away soon. However, it is most often mistakenly diagnosed
Lichen Simplex Chronicus is the main reason for those itchy and flaky skins. Chronic Venous Insufficiency, or CVI is what causes Lichen Simplex Chronicus. This condition can not only contribute to the development of varicose veins, it can also cause several changes to the skin in the affected areas. For example, as the condition progresses your skin might harden or develop a leathery appearance, and you may also experience flaking or itching of the skin. In today’s post, we are going to learn more about winter rash vs. CVI, and how to know which one is the cause of your skin problems.
Is It Winter Rash?
Winter rash can occur in people of all ages. However, it’s most common in the elderly and with people who have eczema. It’s caused in part by the cold, dry air of winter, but also by the extreme temperatures you often experience in winter, such as walking outside in the cold and then getting indoors or in your car where the heat may be turned up very high. This acts as a shock to the system, and can dry out your skin and make it vulnerable to rashes, itching and other symptoms. There are several ways to treat or prevent winter rash, including using a humidifier, moisturizing your skin daily, and dressing in soft, comfortable clothing that’s gentle on your skin. If it is winter rash, it can often be alleviated by these simple changes. However, quit often it is mistakenly diagnosed when, in fact, a more serious condition such as vein disease could be the true culprit. Lichen Simplex Chronicus is not Winter Rash.
Could It Be Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
CVI is a condition in which the valves in the veins become weakened, which hinders the veins’ ability to carry blood from the feet to the heart. The blood may pool in the veins, causing problems such as varicose veins, which are enlarged, twisted veins that protrude through the skin. CVI also causes uncomfortable skin problems on the legs and the ankles, including discoloration, redness, thickening and itching of the skin. The skin is often very dry, itchy and flaky. The itching sets off the cycle of itching, scratching and skin damage. Linchen Simplex Chronicus is a result of itching for a long period of time. This is not a skin condition, but a systematic disease with skin manifestations which is called Lichen Simplex Chronicus.
If left untreated, suffers may also develop ulcers and wounds on their ankles which may be difficult to heal.
There are treatment options for CVI depending on the severity of your condition. Wearing compression stockings, losing weight or changing your diet could help to slow the progression of CVI but it is often a hereditary issue that is difficult for some people to avoid. If the condition is severe, you might need treatment to eliminate the damaged veins. Most people feel relief of their skin problems within a few weeks of vein treatments such as Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) or Mechanochemical Endovenous Ablation (MOCA).
Here at Alpha Vein Clinic, we can help you determine whether your dry, itchy and flaky skin is caused by an underlying vein problem or by winter rash, as well as recommend the best treatment options for you. Book an appointment today so Dr Sassan Kaveh and his staff can customize a treatment plan fit specifically for your needs.
Alpha Vein Clinic
3150 N. Tenaya Way Ste. 400
Las Vegas, NV, 89128
(702) 430 7661
Dr. Sassan Kaveh
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