Lichen Planus Symptoms
Lichen planus can be easily identified in most cases, due to its typical location of rashes and their 'violaceous' appearance. It is characterized by rows or clusters of dark, raised, flat-topped skin lesions. The skin eruptions of lichen planus often involve the following areas:

Insides of the wrists

Ankles

Lower back

Scalp

Nails



Mucous membranes that line the mouth. nose, genitals
(vagina / penis) and anus

The onset of eruptions can be sudden or gradual and tend to show the following lichen planus symptoms:
- Rows or small clusters of flat-topped eruptions, usually a few millimeters in diameter
- In most cases, eruptions of violet colour rashes can be seen. They may vary from purple to pink to even red
- Excessive itching which may vary from mild to severe
- New eruptions may appear at the sites of minor skin injury or trauma, such as a superficial scratch (called as Koebner's phenomenon)
- In some cases, there may be thick, reddish-brown lesions that are covered with scales (called as hypertrophic lichen planus)
- Once the rashes resolve or disappear, they leave behind dark brown or grey spots (hyperpigmentation marks)
- In cases of scalp involvement, there can be a development of scalp scarring in the affected areas further leading to hair loss
- Nails affected by lichen planus may develop pits and grooves.
Oral lichen planus symptoms on the other hand, have a typical presentation that involves the following:
- Small, pale, raised areas that form a lacy network on the inside of the cheeks, rarely involving the tongue. Occasionally, the lesions may even appear to be red and shiny.
- Soreness, burning pain, tenderness in the mouth, especially while having spicy foods.
- Dry mouth with metallic taste or blunted-taste sensation.
- Painful and recurrent ulcers in the mouth leading to discomfort.
People with long-term lesions of oral lichen planus are at a greater risk of developing malignancy (squamous cell carcinoma - a type of skin cancer).
FAQs
What triggers Lichen Planus?
- Infections like Hepatitis C
- Certain pigments, chemicals and metals
- Certain medicines, such as pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen (Aleve, others)
- Certain medications for heart disorders, high blood pressure or arthritis
It is imperative to consult an expert before independently analyzing your lichen planus symptoms and its triggers for an effective and timely treatment.https://www.drbatras.com/book-an-appointment.
What are itchy hands a symptom of?
Can lichen planus be a sign of other disease?
It is therefore imperative to choose the right treatment for the disease that ensures safe and long-lasting results. Homeopathy has proven its efficacy in the treatment of lichen planus, which is clearly demonstrated by a clinical study conducted at the Department of Oral Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2008. This research study evaluates the effectiveness of Ignatia 30C (a homeopathic drug) in the management of oral lichen planus. In this single-blind randomized control clinical trial, 30 consecutive patients with erosive and/or atrophic oral lesions were recruited. At the end of four months, the authors concluded that Ignatia has a beneficial effect on the treatment of oral lichen planus on selected patients. To know more about homeopathy and its treatment for lichen planus;https://www.drbatras.com/book-an-appointment.
What is usually the first sign of lichen planus?
How do you know you have lichen planus?
- Purplish or red, flat bumps, most often on the inner forearm, wrist or ankle. It sometimes even affects the genitals
- Excessive itching on the affected areas
- Blisters that break to form scabs or crusts
- Lacy white patches in the mouth, lips or tongue
- Painful sores in the mouth or genitals
- Hair loss due to scalp scarring in the lichen planus affected areas
- Change in color of the scalp
- Nail damage or loss in case of nail lichen planus
It is recommended to consult an expert to evaluate the intensity and type of the condition for an effective treatment.https://www.drbatras.com/book-an-appointment.