Puzzled by long term skin issues

[adsmithy]

Hi,

I have had a combination of skin issues for the last 7 years. These are; Urticaria, small vessel vasculitis, raynaud's, dry skin, and mild acne.

I did have blood and urine work done around a year ago which did not [according to my derm] any problems.

I just wondered, looking at my symptoms, what sort of things it *could* be?

Thanks in advance,
adsmithy

[Mike Weins]

Hiyas adsmithy :) Welcome to BrainTalk.

Sadly I have no idea as to what may cause your symptoms :( Nor do I know which forum to direct you to at this point :(

[annelb]

You may want to read this article. It is possible that the foods, especially gluten, may be causing or contributing to your skin problems. http://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/12/843.asp
Abstract

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune gluten-dependent enteropathy characterized by atrophy of intestinal villi that improves after gluten-free diet (GFD). CD is often associated with extra-intestinal manifestations; among them, several skin diseases are described in CD patients. The present review reports all CD-associated skin manifestations described in the literature and tries to analyze the possible mechanisms involved in this association. The opportunity to evaluate the possible presence of CD in patients affected by skin disorders is discussed.



For more information about gluten sensitivity/celiac disease, there is a forum here on BT. http://brain.hastypastry.net/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=152

Anne

[adsmithy]

Well I have been gluten free for 3 weeks now so far so good.

On side note, I've noticed that I seem to be CRAVING SALT and I wonder if my adrenal glands are involved in all this.

[annelb]

One reason for salt craving is adrenal insufficiency - Addison's disease. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/salt-craving/AN01597

There is a link between Addison's disease and celiac disease. There are a couple of papers mentioned in The Gluten File http://jccglutenfree.googlepages.com/otherautoimmunedisease

Have you had any adrenal testing? Best to have your doctor check out your salt cravings.
Anne