Gastrointestinal issues affect millions of people worldwide, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms, from bloating and constipation to diarrhea and abdominal pain.

While these symptoms are often well-known, there are also a number of skin signs that can indicate a problem with the gastrointestinal tract.

Yellow Skin

Yellow skin can be a sign of a number of different gastrointestinal issues, including liver disease, jaundice, and Gilbert’s syndrome. People with these conditions may experience pale stools, dark urine, and itching, as well as yellow skin.

Red or Purple Bumps on the Skin

Red or purple bumps on the skin can be a sign of a condition called pyoderma gangrenosum. This condition is often associated with inflammatory bowel disease and can appear as single or multiple ulcers that are painful and slow to heal.

In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Cracked Corners of the Mouth

Cracked corners of the mouth can be a sign of a condition called angular cheilitis. In some cases, this condition can be caused by a fungal infection, which may be associated with inflammatory bowel disease.

In addition to cracks, people with angular cheilitis may experience redness and scaling around the corners of the mouth.

Itchy Skin

Itchy skin can be a sign of a number of different conditions, including liver disease, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. In some cases, itchy skin may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Red, Itchy Bumps on the Skin

Red, itchy bumps on the skin can be a sign of a condition called urticaria. This condition is often associated with food allergies or intolerances, and may be triggered by certain foods or medications.

People with urticaria may also experience swelling of the face, lips, and tongue.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that is often associated with inflammatory bowel disease. Psoriasis can cause red, scaly patches on the skin, as well as itching and discomfort.

While the link between psoriasis and gastrointestinal issues is not well understood, it is thought that inflammation may play a role in both conditions.

Unexplained Rashes

Unexplained rashes can be a sign of a number of different gastrointestinal issues, including Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and ulcerative colitis. These conditions may cause a range of skin symptoms, including rashes, hives, and blisters.

In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Hives

Hives are a common skin symptom that can be caused by a number of different factors, including food allergies or intolerances. Hives may also be associated with gastrointestinal issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease.

In addition to hives, people with these conditions may experience abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that can be caused by a number of different factors, including hormones and genetics. However, acne may also be associated with gastrointestinal issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease.

In addition to acne, people with these conditions may experience abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a sign of a number of different conditions, including gastrointestinal issues. Conditions such as celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to hair loss.

In addition to hair loss, people with these conditions may experience other symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.