Eczema can be triggered by a variety of factors such as food allergies, topical skin irritants, and environmental factors. It affects over 31 million Americans today and include multiple different forms from atopic dermatitis to seborrheic dermatitis. Stress plays a big factor in our body, and although stress itself does not cause eczema, it can provoke and worsen symptoms for those who already suffer from it. This is why eczema prone individuals must take extra consideration to the other parts of their life to determine if there is a stress-related reason that could be making their condition worse.

 

When the body is under stress, it releases a hormone called cortisol. In large doses, cortisol increases inflammation throughout the body which can lead to inflammation in the skin and an eczema flare up. Although topical solutions can help combat these episodes, the real solution lies in finding a way to prevent cortisol from building up in the body. Those who have eczema must focus on keeping their cortisol levels down to a minimum, which can be achieved through many different ways.

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There can be also added burden of comorbidities. Eczema along with comordities like anxiety, autoimmune diseases or depression can create even more stress or inflammation. This all leads to more eczema exacerbations.

 

Ways to Relieve Stress

If you are particularly stressed or have anxiety, try:

• Exercising regularly

• Meditating

• Getting enough sleep

• Find support through others

• Do something enjoyable

• Ask for professional help

 

These are all very common ways to control stress levels. Other factors of your life you may want to consider are keeping a balanced diet and limiting social media and screen time. Missing any of these factors could be a potential reason that your stress and anxiety is heightened. Reducing your stress levels may help keep your eczema flare ups under control. If you are having trouble coping with stress or anxiety, speak with your doctor about treatments or therapies.