Brandi Jones

1 week ago | health.com | Brandi Jones |Casey Gallagher

dragana991 / Getty Images Repeatedly scratching an area can cause lichenification, which is thickened, rough, and dark skin. The name comes from its resemblance to lichen, a plant-like growth found on rocks and trees. Lichenification is not a condition on its own; it's how your skin reacts to long-term irritation or scratching, often from eczema or psoriasis. Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.org. Types There are two types of lichenification: primary and secondary.

3 weeks ago | health.com | Brandi Jones

Evgeniia Gordeeva / Getty Images Atopic dermatitis (the most common type of eczema) causes dry, itchy skin with rough, scaly patches. It affects up to 30% of children and 10% of adults, with about 60% of cases starting before age 1. Early treatment is important. Without it, atopic dermatitis can lead to skin infections, lasting skin changes, and mental health struggles. Working with a healthcare provider can help you understand your triggers, manage your symptoms, and prevent complications.

3 weeks ago | health.com | Brandi Jones

HUIZENG HU / Getty Images Atopic dermatitis (the most common form of eczema) causes dry, itchy skin, often with rough, scaly patches. It can develop at any age, even if you've never had it before. Atopic dermatitis occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens, leading to inflammation, itching, and irritation. Identifying and avoiding allergens linked to atopic dermatitis can help you manage your eczema and reduce flare-ups.

1 month ago | health.com | Brandi Jones

bymuratdeniz / Getty Images Heavy periods can cause major blood loss and, in turn, iron loss. Your body needs iron to make hemoglobin, the protein that helps your red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body. About 30% of people with heavy periods have low iron, and 60% develop iron deficiency anemia if the blood loss continues.

1 month ago | health.com | Brandi Jones

AndreyPopov / Getty Image A douche is a bottle or a bag that holds water or other fluids to clean an internal body cavity. Vaginal douching involves using a douche to clean the vagina, while anal douching cleans out the rectum. Some people douche to feel clean, relieve itching, or for sexual hygiene. However, most healthcare providers don't recommend it because it disrupts the natural pH (acid-base) balance, leading to infections and other health problems.