Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a long-term skin condition that causes red, itchy, and dry skin, leading to discomfort and distress. It can affect people of any age, but it’s most common in children and affects millions worldwide. Eczema can occur for many reasons such as genetics, allergens, irritants, and, notably, stress.
Stress has been identified as the major contributor to eczema flare-ups, intensifying eczema symptoms and complicating effective eczema treatment. Let’s read why stress can worsen eczema symptoms and strategies to manage both stress and eczema effectively.
How Stress Can Trigger Eczema?
Stress is a feeling of emotional or mental tension caused by difficult situations, pressures, or worries which can lead to triggering the body’s hormones like cortisol which can increase inflammation and make eczema symptoms worse.
How Stress Affects Eczema Symptoms
Hormonal Changes: Stress elevates cortisol levels, a hormone that, when chronically high, can thin the skin and reduce its ability to heal, making eczema flare-ups more persistent.
Releases cortisol – Stress triggers the release of cortisol, which prepares the body for action. Cortisol increases inflammation in the body, which can worsen eczema symptoms.
Skin Barrier Dysfunction – Stress can directly impair the skin barrier function, making it more susceptible to irritants and allergens, contributing to eczema flare-ups.
The Itch-Scratch Cycle: Stress often heightens the sensation of itching, leading individuals to scratch more frequently. This can create a vicious cycle: scratching worsens the inflammation, leading to more itching and further skin damage.
Stress can vary from person to person, but common stress-related eczema symptoms include: Increased itchiness, redness and swelling in the affected area, Dry or cracked skin and Thickened or leathery skin due to prolonged scratching.
Eczema Treatment Options for Stress-Related Flare-Ups
Eczema treatment can help reduce inflammation, heal the skin, and prevent future flare-ups by:
Topical Treatments – Apply emollients which maintain the skin to moisturize and hydrate the skin barrier.
Prescribe Medications – For eczema treatment, doctors often prescribe medication to reduce inflammation and itching which are mostly used, they may also consider immunosuppressants to control the immune system response causing the eczema flare-ups.
Lifestyle Adjustments – Avoid common eczema triggers such as harsh soaps, fragrances, and allergens, Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize irritation, and Keep your environment humidified to prevent dry skin.
Tips for Preventing Stress-Induced Eczema Flare-Ups
Build a Skin Care Routine: Consistency is key. Apply moisturizers daily and use gentle cleansers to maintain skin health.
Plan for Stressful Situations: Anticipate high-stress events and have stress management tools ready.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports healthy skin and overall well-being.
Track Your Triggers: Maintain a journal to identify patterns between stress and eczema symptoms. This can help you adapt your treatment plan accordingly.
Eczema is a multifaceted condition, and effective management requires a holistic approach. By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition, you can significantly reduce eczema symptoms and improve your quality of life. Stress management techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, and relaxation can complement medical treatments, providing long-term relief and healthier skin.
Remember, every individual’s eczema journey is unique. What works for one person may not work for another, so it’s essential to remain patient and open to trying different strategies.
Manage Stress to Reduce Eczema Symptoms
While stress cannot always be avoided, managing it effectively can significantly improve eczema symptoms and overall quality of life. Here are some strategies to reduce stress and its impact on eczema:
1. Relaxation Techniques
Practicing relaxation techniques can help calm the mind and body, reducing the stress response that aggravates eczema. Consider incorporating:
- Deep Breathing Exercises: Focused, slow breathing can lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation.
- Meditation and Mindfulness: These practices improve stress management by fostering awareness and acceptance of the present moment.
- Yoga: A combination of physical poses, breathing exercises, and meditation, yoga has been shown to lower stress and enhance mental clarity.
2. Regular Exercise
Physical activity is a natural stress reliever, releasing endorphins that boost mood. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling are excellent choices for individuals with eczema, as they are less likely to cause overheating, which can trigger flare-ups.
3. Adequate Sleep
Stress and eczema often disrupt sleep, leading to further irritation and fatigue. To promote better rest:
- Establish a consistent sleep schedule.
- Keep your bedroom cool and comfortable.
- Use breathable, eczema-friendly bedding.
- Apply a moisturizing cream or ointment before bed to prevent dryness and itching.
4. Time Management
Feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities can heighten stress levels. Break tasks into manageable steps, prioritize your to-do list, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
5. Social Support
Connecting with others can alleviate feelings of isolation and stress. Share your experiences with family, friends, or support groups for individuals living with eczema.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your eczema symptoms persist despite stress management and over-the-counter treatments, consult Dermis Oracle. Understanding the connection between stress and eczema is the first step toward managing it effectively. Stress can silently worsen eczema symptoms, creating a cycle that feels hard to break. However, by combining stress management techniques with the right eczema treatments, you can regain control over your skin and your well-being.
We, at Dermis Oracle, have doctors specialized in treating and counselling individuals with eczema. Our expertise is focused on identifying triggers, improving your skincare routine, and managing stress. We are here to provide personalized guidance that helps you take control of your eczema. Take charge of your journey to calmer skin and a calmer mind today—because your path to relief begins now!