In short
Lichen planus is a rash that can affect different parts of your body, including the inside of your mouth.
Worth knowing4
The main signs are clusters of shiny, raised, purple-red blotches on the arms, legs or body, sometimes with fine white lines. The rash may be harder to see on black or brown skin.
NHS websiteIt can also cause white patches on the gums, tongue or inside the cheeks, and burning or stinging in the mouth when eating or drinking.
NHS websiteLichen planus on your skin can be very itchy, but not always.
NHS websiteYou cannot catch lichen planus and it does not usually come back once it's cleared up.
NHS website
What helps3
Lichen planus on your skin usually gets better on its own in about 9 to 18 months.
NHS websiteCreams and ointments from a health care provider can help control the rash and ease itching.
NHS websiteOn the skin: wash with warm water and avoid soaps and body washes, and try not to scratch.
NHS website
See a provider if1
See a health care provider if you think you might have lichen planus.
NHS website
Sources
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
These pages describe what the sources say. They cannot say what is going on with your skin.
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