What does your face say about your health?

When we’re feeling unwell, many of us women keep our sickness under wraps and try to soldier on. But did you know many health problems will show in your face (even if you lie to your doctor)? Yep, an article published by the Daily Mail has shown there’s no hiding the signs of some health issues – however underlying they may be. Here’s a breakdown of some of the clues to look out for:

Eyes

White rings in the iris: This can be a sign of high cholesterol.

Small fatty lumps or pimples on the eyelids: This also points to high cholesterol levels.

Drooping eyelid: This may be an indicator of facial paralysis, or Bell’s palsy. In rare instances, it may suggest a stroke (although in this case it’d usually be accompanied by other symptoms such as slurring of words).

Mouth

Shortened teeth: This can be caused by poor digestion resulting in acid reflux, where stomach acid splashes up the throat and literally dissolves teeth.

Black tongue: An indicator of poor oral hygiene, smoking and in some cases, the result of taking antibiotics. Brushing your tongue and using mouthwash can help with this one.

Skin

Yellow skin: This can be a side effect of some medication, such as those taken for diabetes and high blood pressure. It can also point to severe liver damage, which is known for triggering jaundice.

Brown patches: Whether they’re as small as a thumbnail or big enough to cover both cheeks, this kind of pigmentation on the face is often linked to excess oestrogen. It’s usually seen in women who are pregnant or taking the contraceptive pill.

Wrinkles: According to a US study published in 2011, deep lines in the face could be a sign of osteoporosis. The connection between the two? Low collagen (the building block for both bones and skin).

Ears

Wrinkled earlobes: Research shows having a diagonal crease across the earlobe may be a risk factor for heart disease. Cholesterol deposits lead to these kinds of crinkles.

Cheeks

Red cheeks: Facial redness can reveal a skin problem such as rosacea (caused by inflammation). It can also indicate internal issues such as Cushing’s syndrome, which is when there are excess levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body.

Purple cheeks: Blue or purple cheeks are a sign of low oxygen levels in the blood. This can be the result of chronic lung disease as well as some types of heart disease.

Rash: A butterfly-shaped rash across the bridge of the nose and the cheeks can be a symptom of lupus, a rare auto”‘immune condition that also causes fatigue and joint pain.

Nose

Bumps on the nose: A relatively rare condition called sarcoidosis, which causes scarring of the organs of the body, is characterised by red bumps on the nose and ears.

Big nose: This one’s actually beneficial! Big-nosed people may actually be less prone to bugs, as their beaks provide a better barrier against dust particles and bacteria.

Now, before the hypochondriac in you rears its panicky head, take a deep breath. At beautyheaven, we strongly advise against self-diagnosing: it’s always best to consult your GP first!
 

Have you experienced any of these health issues?