Lichen Sclerosus: a guide to understanding and managing it
Lichen Sclerosus is a chronic skin disease that mainly affects the genital and anal area, but can also affect other parts of the body. It is relatively rare, but can cause significant discomfort and affect quality of life. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 70 women suffer from Lichen Sclerosus. This means that around 1.4% of all women may be affected by this chronic skin disease. However, it is important to note that some women may experience complete recovery and become entirely symptom-free. It's nevertheless important to note that this figure may vary somewhat depending on the study and population group being investigated. Lichen Sclerosus can occur in all age groups, but is more common in post-menopausal women (women who have passed the menopause). At the same time, it's worth mentioning that the disease can be underdiagnosed, as many may feel uncomfortable seeking treatment for their symptoms, or the symptoms may be confused with other conditions.
When I read a review from one of our users, Pernilla, who has Lichen Sclerosus herself, I felt it was time to shine a spotlight on the disease and spread a little more knowledge about it ❤️
WHAT IS LICHEN SCLEROSUS?
Lichen Sclerosus (LS) is an inflammatory skin disease characterised by thin, white patches on the skin that can itch and cause pain. These patches of skin can become tender, fragile and crack, which can lead to further complications.
SYMPTOMS OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS
Lichen Sclerosus symptoms can vary from person to person, but the most common are:
🌸 White patches on the skin, mainly in the genital and anal area
🌸 Itching, which can be intense
🌸 Pain or discomfort, especially when touched or during sexual intercourse
🌸 Cracks or bleeding on the skin
🌸 Changes in the structure of the skin, such as thickening or wrinkles
Lichen Sclerosus can affect the vulva in women, while men are most often affected on the foreskin of the penis. The disease can also occur in children, but is more common in adults.
CAUSES OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS
The exact cause of Lichen Sclerosus (LS) is unknown, but researchers believe that several factors may play a role:
🌸 Autoimmune reaction: Many experts believe that LS may be an autoimmune disease, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin tissue.
🌸 Genetic factors: Some evidence suggests that genetic factors may increase the risk of developing LS.
🌸 Hormones: LS is more common in women after the menopause, suggesting that hormonal changes may be a contributing factor.
🌸 Skin damage: Damage to the skin, such as scarring or inflammation, can also be a triggering factor.
DIAGNOSIS OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS
A diagnosis of lichen sclerosus is often made through a physical examination and a medical history. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may also take a skin biopsy, which involves removing a small piece of skin and examining it under a microscope.
TREATMENT OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS
There is no cure for lichen sclerosus, but treatments can help manage the symptoms and prevent the disease from worsening. Common treatment options include:
🌸 Corticosteroid creams: These creams are the most common treatment and can reduce inflammation and itching.
🌸 Immunosuppressive drugs: For people who don't respond to corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs may be an option.
🌸 Moisturising creams: Regular use of moisturising creams can help keep skin soft and prevent cracking.
🌸 Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged skin or to treat complications such as scarring.
VAGIVITAL AKTIVGEL - CLINICALLY PROVEN AT THE SWEDISH UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
For a disease such as Lichen Sclerosus, there is unfortunately no miracle cure, but VagiVital AktivGel can provide significant relief by moisturising the mucous membranes. The gel is hormone-free and consists mainly of water. Its unique property lies in its low osmolality, which means that the moisture in the gel is effectively transferred to the mucous membranes. In addition, the gel has a high viscosity, which means that it stays where it is applied, releasing the moisture to the mucous membranes over time without sticking. Clinical studies at the Swedish University Hospital have shown that women achieve the best results when they use the gel once a day for 90 days, which is equivalent to three tubes.
Buy Vagivital AktivGel here.
LIVING WITH LICHEN SCLEROSUS
Being diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosus can be frightening, but it's important to remember that there is help and support available. Here are some tips for managing the disease:
🌸 Listen to your doctor: Use the prescribed treatments regularly and according to instructions.
🌸 Avoid irritation: Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid soaps and products that can irritate the skin.
🌸 Keep your skin clean and dry: Careful hygiene can help prevent infections and further irritation.
🌸 Seek support: Talk to a doctor, therapist or support group for advice and support.
If you suspect you have Lichen Sclerosus or are experiencing the above symptoms, don't hesitate to seek medical help. With the right treatment and support, you can live a full and active life despite the disease ❤️
Take care of yourself ❤️
/Fanny Falkman Grinndal
Business Manager Nordics
Peptonic Medical AB
fanny.falkman-grinndal@peptonicmedical.se
When I read a review from one of our users, Pernilla, who has Lichen Sclerosus herself, I felt it was time to shine a spotlight on the disease and spread a little more knowledge about it ❤️
WHAT IS LICHEN SCLEROSUS?
Lichen Sclerosus (LS) is an inflammatory skin disease characterised by thin, white patches on the skin that can itch and cause pain. These patches of skin can become tender, fragile and crack, which can lead to further complications.
SYMPTOMS OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS
Lichen Sclerosus symptoms can vary from person to person, but the most common are:
🌸 White patches on the skin, mainly in the genital and anal area
🌸 Itching, which can be intense
🌸 Pain or discomfort, especially when touched or during sexual intercourse
🌸 Cracks or bleeding on the skin
🌸 Changes in the structure of the skin, such as thickening or wrinkles
Lichen Sclerosus can affect the vulva in women, while men are most often affected on the foreskin of the penis. The disease can also occur in children, but is more common in adults.
CAUSES OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS
The exact cause of Lichen Sclerosus (LS) is unknown, but researchers believe that several factors may play a role:
🌸 Autoimmune reaction: Many experts believe that LS may be an autoimmune disease, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin tissue.
🌸 Genetic factors: Some evidence suggests that genetic factors may increase the risk of developing LS.
🌸 Hormones: LS is more common in women after the menopause, suggesting that hormonal changes may be a contributing factor.
🌸 Skin damage: Damage to the skin, such as scarring or inflammation, can also be a triggering factor.
DIAGNOSIS OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS
A diagnosis of lichen sclerosus is often made through a physical examination and a medical history. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may also take a skin biopsy, which involves removing a small piece of skin and examining it under a microscope.
TREATMENT OF LICHEN SCLEROSUS
There is no cure for lichen sclerosus, but treatments can help manage the symptoms and prevent the disease from worsening. Common treatment options include:
🌸 Corticosteroid creams: These creams are the most common treatment and can reduce inflammation and itching.
🌸 Immunosuppressive drugs: For people who don't respond to corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs may be an option.
🌸 Moisturising creams: Regular use of moisturising creams can help keep skin soft and prevent cracking.
🌸 Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged skin or to treat complications such as scarring.
VAGIVITAL AKTIVGEL - CLINICALLY PROVEN AT THE SWEDISH UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
For a disease such as Lichen Sclerosus, there is unfortunately no miracle cure, but VagiVital AktivGel can provide significant relief by moisturising the mucous membranes. The gel is hormone-free and consists mainly of water. Its unique property lies in its low osmolality, which means that the moisture in the gel is effectively transferred to the mucous membranes. In addition, the gel has a high viscosity, which means that it stays where it is applied, releasing the moisture to the mucous membranes over time without sticking. Clinical studies at the Swedish University Hospital have shown that women achieve the best results when they use the gel once a day for 90 days, which is equivalent to three tubes.
Buy Vagivital AktivGel here.
LIVING WITH LICHEN SCLEROSUS
Being diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosus can be frightening, but it's important to remember that there is help and support available. Here are some tips for managing the disease:
🌸 Listen to your doctor: Use the prescribed treatments regularly and according to instructions.
🌸 Avoid irritation: Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid soaps and products that can irritate the skin.
🌸 Keep your skin clean and dry: Careful hygiene can help prevent infections and further irritation.
🌸 Seek support: Talk to a doctor, therapist or support group for advice and support.
If you suspect you have Lichen Sclerosus or are experiencing the above symptoms, don't hesitate to seek medical help. With the right treatment and support, you can live a full and active life despite the disease ❤️
Take care of yourself ❤️
/Fanny Falkman Grinndal
Business Manager Nordics
Peptonic Medical AB
fanny.falkman-grinndal@peptonicmedical.se