Changes in Skin Appearance After Showering
As a 32-year-old male (5'7" and weighing 230 pounds) dealing with high blood pressure and gout, I've been on medication including allopurinol and amlodipine for the last year. Recently, I’ve become aware of an unusual change in my skin. Specifically, after showering, I’ve noticed the skin in the creases of my palms becomes wrinkled and shriveled, similar to how it appears after prolonged exposure to water. Strangely, it’s isolated to just that area of my hands. Moreover, a few weeks ago, I attempted a 24-hour water fast and neglected to replenish my electrolytes effectively, which resulted in a peculiar pulsating sensation in my left calf. Oddly enough, it resembled a rhythmic pumping feeling, without any pain accompanying it. After consuming some electrolytes, the sensation subsided, but it was quite alarming—my anxiety spiked, and I irrationally feared for my health. Additionally, I’ve observed that my veins appear more pronounced and blue than usual, a detail I hadn’t really noticed before my scare over the leg pulsation. I also just discovered that the soles of my feet have a reddish-purple hue, which is curious since my apartment temperature is set at 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This has led me to worry: is my skin becoming thinner? Could this indicate peripheral artery disease? Am I in serious trouble? I have a routine check-up scheduled for this Saturday, allowing me the opportunity to discuss these concerns with my doctor. My anxiety levels are quite heightened at the moment, which can't be benefiting my high blood pressure. I find myself regretting that I didn’t commit more diligently to the lifestyle changes my physician recommended. I apologize to my doctor for not following through on these necessary adjustments to my health.
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 3:50:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing several skin concerns and physical sensations that are understandably causing you anxiety. It's important to know that many factors can affect skin appearance, especially in context with your health conditions and lifestyle choices. Let's break down your observations and outline key points to consider.
Main Points:
- Wrinkling of Skin After Showering: The wrinkling in the creases of your palms is likely a normal response to moisture exposure. It may happen more noticeably in those areas due to their natural skin structure.
- Pulsating Sensation: The pulsating feeling in your calf might relate to hydration and electrolyte balance, which can be affected during fasting. It's good that it improved after electrolyte intake.
- Vein Appearance & Skin Color Changes: Pronounced veins and changes in skin color, like reddish-purple hues on the soles of your feet, can be related to circulation or other factors, including temperature, hydration, and anxiety.
Explanation:
- Skin Changes: After showering, skin can temporarily wrinkle, especially in areas with thicker folds. If it resolves quickly and doesn’t cause discomfort, it's likely normal. Pay attention to other symptoms around the affected area.
- Calf Sensation: The rhythmic sensation without pain can occur if muscle cramps or spasms develop due to electrolyte imbalance or dehydration. This sensation can feel alarming but is usually not serious if it resolves quickly.
- Circulation and Skin Color: Blue veins can indicate well-perfused blood flow and skin hues can vary with temperature changes. However, if you notice persistent differences, it’s worth investigating further.
Next Steps:
- Hydrate and Replenish Electrolytes: Continue to ensure you maintain proper hydration and balance electrolytes regularly, especially if you plan to fast again.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a log of when you experience these changes—note any patterns such as time of day, activities, or if they improve. This can provide useful insights for your physician.
- Communication with Your Doctor: During your upcoming check-up, share all these observations. Discussing your experiences and any lifestyle changes might also help ease your anxiety and allow for tailored recommendations moving forward.
Additional Considerations:
- Practice stress-reduction techniques to manage anxiety, such as deep breathing or mild exercise, which can also benefit your blood pressure.
- Consider partnering with your doctor to discuss specific lifestyle changes that could be beneficial for your high blood pressure and gout management moving forward.
You're taking a proactive approach by scheduling a check-up which is a great step. Remember that addressing health concerns gradually and with support can lead to positive changes.
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