Scarring is an unfortunate result of some injuries. Sometimes scars are small and easy to cover up, or they even go away in time. On the other hand, more serious injuries can leave larger and disfiguring scars, such as keloid scars. In some cases, this type of scarring produces its own health issues.
If a keloid scar develops early on following an injury, you should know your options. You may require treatment to treat and minimize the scar to help restore your quality of life.
The appearance of keloids
Keloid scars result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. A keloid rises above the skin and can look lumpy and thick, and might continue to grow for some time even after the healing of the original wound.
While they do not pose a direct threat to health, their conspicuous appearance can be emotionally distressing. You may find yourself having to explain your scar on different occasions, which can affect your social interactions and your self-confidence.
How keloids can hinder you
In certain cases, keloid scars can extend beyond the surface of the skin and possibly make it difficult to move. This limitation can be particularly problematic in body areas where you need flexibility for your body to create movement, such as your joints. Additionally, itchiness, discomfort and pain are also possible.
Treatment for keloid scars
Addressing keloid scars involves a combination of therapeutic approaches tailored to the needs of the individual patient. Depending on your situation, you might require a steroid injection into the keloid to flatten it, a pressure dressing or a silicone-based application. Doctors also offer laser treatments and surgery if the situation calls for it.
According to the Mayo Clinic, certain people have a greater predisposition to develop keloids. These include people with darker skin, individuals over 20 and under 30 years old, and those who have had a keloid once before. These facts should help you understand your outlook after an injury and how to plan your treatment.