How do you prevent lichen sclerosus flare ups?

Irritants such as soap, detergents, shower gels and bubble baths can aggravate lichen sclerosus, so using these irritants should be avoided. Friction or damage to the skin can make it worse so overzealous washing and drying of the vaginal or anal area should be avoided.

What causes lichen sclerosus flare?

The cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown. An overactive immune system or an imbalance of hormones may play a role. Previous skin damage at a particular site on your skin may increase the likelihood of lichen sclerosus at that location. Lichen sclerosus isn’t contagious and cannot be spread through sexual intercourse.10 Oct 2020

What does a lichen sclerosus flare up feel like?

It causes irritated skin around external genitalia such as the vulva, usually in the form of white patches where the skin becomes thin, wrinkled, and extremely sensitive. Women experiencing lichen sclerosus often experience flare-ups or attacks that consist of intense itching.18 Apr 2018

How do you treat a lichen sclerosus flare up?

During flare ups, applying steroid creams helps to reduce the inflammation. Clobetsol propionate, also known as Dermovate, has been found to be very effective in treating lichen sclerosus flare ups. Dermovate cream can be used once or twice a day.

How long does it take to get lichen sclerosus under control?

Generally, a 30g tube should last for around three months. When used appropriately, the risk of side effects such as thinning of the skin is very low. Symptoms tend to ease after a few weeks of treatment, but it may be a few months before your symptoms are fully under control.

Does stress make lichen sclerosus worse?

A person may be predisposed to getting the condition because of their genes. Such people may get LS symptoms when exposed to any injury, stress, or sexual abuse.9 Oct 2020

How do you calm lichen sclerosus?

– Apply lubricant (petroleum jelly, A and D ointment, Aquaphor) to the affected area.
– Gently wash the affected area daily and pat dry.
– Ease burning and pain with oatmeal solutions, sitz baths, ice packs or cool compresses.

What foods make lichen sclerosus worse?

– spinach, raw and cooked.
– canned pineapple.
– many boxed cereals.
– dried fruit.
– rhubarb.
– rice bran.
– bran flakes.
– soy flour.

Does lichen sclerosus have flare ups?

Women experiencing lichen sclerosus often experience flare-ups or attacks that consist of intense itching. Although lichen sclerosus is not contagious and cannot be transmitted sexually, minor abrasions and chaffing may lead to bleeding, tearing, and blistering of affected areas.18 Apr 2018

How does lichen sclerosus make you feel?

Lichen sclerosus is a long-term skin condition that mostly affects the genital and anal areas. It causes your affected skin to become thin, white, and wrinkly. It is due to inflammation and other skin changes in the affected area. Common symptoms include itching, irritation, and pain during sex.

Can Lichen Planus cause fatigue?

Immune modulators – such as imiquimod and levamisole may be advised by a specialist if lichen planus is severe. These work with the body’s immune system to help fight damage to the skin. Skin irritation, headache, nausea and tiredness can be side-effects.5 Oct 2017

Does lichen sclerosus affect immune system?

Some researchers think that lichen sclerosus may be an auto-immune disorder, where your immune system becomes confused and attacks your skin instead of protecting it. Lichen sclerosus appears to be more common in women with other auto-immune illnesses such as thyroid problems or ulcerative colitis.