Medical Explanation of Stretch Mark

Stretch marks, also referred to as Striae, are the irregular areas of the skin that appear in the form of lines, stripes or bands. They are also referred to as Striae atrophica, Stretch marks and Striae distensae. They are seen when a person gains weight rapidly or has been suffering from a certain disease. Stretch marks appear when there is rapid stretching of the skin. It is associated with the enlargement of the abdomen during pregnancy. Many struggle to remove stretch marks (check here) and try to get medical help for it. You will come across lot of medical information on the net but your doctor can also explain the reason and the cure. To eliminate stretch marks we first need to understand the medical explanation about stretch marks. 

The skin is quite elastic, but if it gets over stretched, collagen the major protein that makes up the connective tissue in your skin is disrupted, and you can see scars called stretch marks. Collagen is a type of protein, fibrous in nature which connects and supports the other body tissues such as muscles, cartilage, tendons, skin and bone. It supports internal organs too. It works with elastin to support the body tissue form and it gives strength and firmness and provides the body tissue with the much needed flexibility. The combination of elastin and collagen is important for bones and tendons. During pregnancy the hormones soften collagen in the ligament around the abdomen preparing for the baby to be born. But, unfortunately hormones also make the skin collagen weak which results into stretch marks as the body keeps growing to accommodate the little one. No wonder 75 percent of pregnant women have stretch marks as they bear a child.

Most women and girls have these marks on their butt, hips, thighs and breasts. Most of them get them during pregnancy. Men also get these marks. Obese people and body builders get stretch marks because of the rapid changes in their body.

Causes of stretch marks:

Ehlers- Danlos syndrome

Pregnancy

Cushing syndrome

Puberty

Over usage of cortisone skin creams

Obesity

Initially stretch marks appear in the form of purple or red lines and look indented and have a different texture. These marks get light over time and also disappear.

There are many creams available in the market to remove stretch marks. Laser surgery is one of the remedies for stretch marks. Stretch marks do look ugly thus people often opt for surgery. Generally stretch marks disappear over time but if they do not then you can consult your doctor.