Because of developmental problems, age, or acquired physical problems, some individuals are not able to communicate that they are having discomfort or pain. That's an opportunity for family members and care givers to listen to what behaviors may be telling them about medical conditions.

Behaviors that may be telling you about a skin disorder:

• Repeatedly scratching irritated skin
• Rubbing eyes
• Compulsive manipulation of any part of body

Other factors that may indicate the presence of skin disorders:

• Family history of skin disorders
• Personal history of asthma or skin disorders
• Allergy to medications, such as aspirin or opiates
• Rash that appears after exposure to sunlight
• Rash that itches, oozes, scales, blisters, is red, bumpy
• Dandruff that clings to hair (may be lice, rather than dandruff)
• Eye irritation: sore, bleary, burning, or itching
• Skin is dry or cracked
• Skin sores, ulcers, blisters that don't heal
• Discomfort increases in hot weather, when humidity is too high or too low, in winter when furnaces are turned on
• Wearing wool or polyester aggravates problems
• Redness or swelling around toenails or fingernails (check to be sure a thread or hair isn't wrapped around a toe); moist areas between toes; poorly trimmed or ingrown toenails
• Digging in rectal or pubic area
• Inability to change position without help
• Use of splints, braces, or a wheelchair for long periods of time
• Skin is red, feels hot; symptoms last more than 20-30 minutes

Do you think someone's behavior may be telling you about a skin or scalp condition? Talk with your doctor or other health care provider. They can work with you to learn whether this is the case.

A Checklist of What Behaviors Tell Us

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