Why do men get stretch marks?

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Question

I have read about stretch marks but only in reference to women.

I wondered if the role of oestrogen also applied to men – if so, then the question is answered.

I get the stretch marks on the front of my arms, at the shoulder, and also on the tops of my hips. They are quite prominent and can be quite sore sometimes. Is there anything I can/should do to reduce them?

Answer

While it is possible for men to get stretch marks, usually as a result of obesity, there are features about your question that cause me concern.

So my first advice is that you should ask your GP to check them for you.

Your GP may suggest a few blood tests to exclude hormone conditions that can be associated with similar lesions such as cortisone production abnormalities.

Similar changes can occur with certain skin infections particularly with the yeast Candida.

In the case of a skin infection treatment is usually rapid and effective.

Unfortunately, other forms of stretch marks are more permanent - they represent a change of normal skin to scar tissue, so the change is not reversible.

In the absence of a clear diagnosis, stretch marks are usually not uncomfortable. They fade over time and cause few problems.

Yours sincerely

The Medical Team

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