For many of us darkening of the skin doesn't even raise an eyebrow, even though the darkening may be uneven. However, in most cases, darker skin caused by hyperpigmentation is uneven and appears in the form of dark patches on the joints, palms, soles and perhaps even the face. Some of the common symptoms of dark skin caused by hyperpigmentation include:
• Uneven light brown or dark brown colored patches on the skin
• Appearance of blemishes on the face and other parts of the skin
• Differences in skin tone, mainly on the face, neck, throat, elbows and knees
In case your skin is naturally dark due to the presence of melanin then the symptoms may not be noticeable immediately. However, over a period of time, as the discoloration spreads or becomes darker, it is bound to become evident. Unfortunately, darkening of the skin is not always indicative of hyperpigmentation; there are a few other skin conditions, such as lupus and rosacea too that could lead to a darkening of the skin. Therefore, it could be a bit of the challenge to diagnose the condition accurately, without seeking medical assistance. If darkening of the skin is caused by some other health problems then it is very likely that you will also notice some other symptoms like a rash, swelling, reddening, acne, tiredness and weakness along with the darkening of the skin. It is absolutely essential to consult a doctor in case you see accompanying symptoms like:
• Dizziness and fainting
• Gastrointestinal problems like nausea and vomiting
• Digestive disorders like constipation or diarrhea
• Lack of an appetite, accompanied by weight loss
• Pain in the stomach and the abdominal area
• Flushing of the skin
