Does eczema get worse with stress?
My personal experience with it says that it does. It also seems to get worse in the winter than in the summer, with exposure to allergens, and with some clothing.
Here, I found some more official information from an eczema medication website:
Eczema outbreaks, or "flare-ups" are caused by an overreaction of your skin's immune system to environmental and emotional "triggers". These can range from irritants such as chemicals; to allergens, such as dust or mold; to stress.
For those with eczema, it is very helpful to identify and avoid exposure to such triggers. However, because there are so many potential triggers, this can be challenging.
The following sections explain different triggers that may lead to eczema outbreaks:
Temperature/HumidityExtremes in temperature and humidity can worsen or trigger an eczema flare. While it may be tricky, maintaining a moderate and stable temperature and humidity all year is helpful.
When it's warm and humid in summer, make sure the temperature inside remains cool with an air conditioner. Also keep in mind that air-conditioned air may also be drying to your skin, so be sure to use a moisturizer.
In the winter, the air tends to be drier (cold air holds less moisture, and heating systems generally introduce very dry, hot air into homes), which makes it easier to develop dry skin. Since dry skin is more prone to itching, using a humidifier during the winter months can keep the humidity at an optimal level.
IrritantsIrritants can be both physical and chemical. Avoid products containing potentially irritating chemicals. Usually, these are easy to identify—things like pesticides, paint strippers, etc.—but others may not be as obvious. Ingredients such as alcohol, astringents, and fragrances may trigger or worsen eczema. These ingredients can be found in cosmetics, emollients, cleaners, air fresheners, toilet paper, etc. Reading ingredient lists on products is a smart way to avoid contact with irritants.
ClothingSomething as simple as the clothes you wear can have a great impact on eczema management—from the types of fabrics to how you care for them.
It's best to avoid materials that feel "itchy," things like wool, burlap, etc. Try to wear soft fabrics like cotton, which tend to be less irritating. It's also a good idea to wash all new clothes, linens, and towels before using them for the first time.
Many detergents and fabric softeners may contain chemicals such as fragrances that can irritate our skin. Always read the list of ingredients to avoid contact with irritants. Generally, it is good to choose a mild liquid detergent and put your clothes through an extra rinse cycle when they are brand new.
AllergensIf you experience allergic reactions such as asthma, breathing difficulty, hives, etc., you may already avoid some allergens. It is also important to identify the allergens that specifically trigger your eczema flare-ups.
Although people with eczema are more likely to develop allergies to food (milk, eggs, wheat and peanuts) and airborne allergens (dust mites, molds and pet hairs), it is important to note that allergies can occur independently from eczema. Pay attention to any allergy that may worsen or trigger your eczema, and let your doctor know.
It may be a good idea to enlist the help of a specialist to determine what you are allergic to and what you should avoid.
StressSometimes, it's hard to stay relaxed, especially when your eczema flares-up. Yet research is now showing that keeping a calm head and good mental outlook may be one of the best ways to help keep eczema in check.
Emotional stress is a well-known trigger of eczema flare-ups. Patients can have difficulties with anxiety, anger and hostility caused by having eczema. This only adds to the problem. Learning to reduce stress may lessen the frequency and, hopefully, the intensity of the flare-ups.
Staying Relaxed Meditation, relaxation techniques and stress management can help.
You may also find that you feel more in control if you keep a diary or other record of flare-ups.
Support groups are another way to help you feel better. The National Eczema Association for Science and Education (NEASE) can provide information on groups near you. Visit the NEASE site to find out more.
Staying In ControlIt can also be helpful and empowering to learn as much as you can about your condition and make sure that your partner, family, friends and even coworkers do, too. The more you know, the better you'll be able to fend off flare-ups. For instance, if you know what your triggers are, you can try to avoid them. If your job or home life brings you into contact with irritants or involves frequent hand washing, think about ways to modify your tasks.
