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HEALTH FAMILY PROBLEMS RELATIONSHIPS EDUCATION & CAREER Dear What's the Problem? I've been suffering from a burning sensation on the surface of my skin and almost all over my body. The only region that is not affected is the front of my abdomen. Also, if it’s not my skin burning then my muscles ache. Can you tell me why this is?” Catherine Arnesen, South Africa. Advice: Dr Suzy Morris You could be suffering from a condition called Urticaria but it is very difficult to diagnose without more information. The first thing you need to do is to get a diagnosis from your doctor who will refer you to a dermatologist if necessary. The What's the Problem? website is providing general information only. It should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. The BBC is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of the What's the Problem? website. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.		FURTHER INFORMATION   What is skin? It's the biggest organ in the body, weighing up to 7% of the total body weight. The average adult has about 2 sq metres of skin. It protects us from water loss and dehydration, protects us from infection, ultra violet light, and from over heating. What can we do generally to look after our skin? *Protect it from ultra violet light - use sun block especially if you have pale skin *Wash and moisturise your skin - even men! *Drink plenty of water *Cut out smoking    INTERNET LINKS What is Urticaria?   The BBC is not responsible for the content of external Internet sites