Causes and Symptoms of Stretch Marks

Posted by sanjay on Tuesday 07 Apr 2009

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Ah, stretch marks. Every pregnant woman’s inevitable nightmare. When we think of stretch marks our thoughts lead right to pregnancy. But stretch marks are not a problem reserved strictly for pregnant women although pregnant women are the prime candidates for stretch marks.

There are factors other than pregnancy that can cause stretch marks in both men and women alike. Stretch marks can appear when a man or woman gains or loses weight at a rapid pace, when an adolescent’s body goes through a rapid growth spurt, when a person is under a great deal of stress, or they can be linked to genetics.

The medical term for stretch marks is striae gravidarum. Stretch marks are a discoloration of the skin. They are originally pink or a reddish-brown in color but then they turn to white. Stretch marks are often mistaken for scars. They occur when the top layer of the skin or the epidermis is torn. The elastin fibers found in the skin are either stretched or torn.

Stretch marks lie flat against the skin. Stretch marks are found wherever the skin has been stretched or torn. Some of the most common places on the body where stretch marks can be found are on the abdominal wall, the thighs, hips, breasts, and buttocks. While they cannot be removed from the body, they can be lightened and fade over the years. This article discusses the causes of stretch marks and the symptoms associated with them.

What causes stretch marks?
Stretch marks are predominately caused by an excessive loss or gain in body weight. They are most commonly found on pregnant women and obese people. Body builders are also susceptible to getting stretch marks because their bodies grow at such a fast rate. Stretch marks can also be linked to the use of certain medications and steroids. People who have hormonal imbalances or go through a sudden physical or environmental change can get stretch marks as well.

What are symptoms of stretch marks?
The symptoms of stretch marks are very basic and quite evident. A person will notice a discoloration on the surface of their skin in the area that has been stretched. The stretch marks can be seen on a person’s abdomen, breasts, thighs, hips, and buttocks.