Eczema is an annoying condition that involves the development of an itchy rash. These patients develop rapid insomnia. Insomnia is a condition that involved a disturbed sleep cycle with patients sleeping for just 3 or 4 hours. This condition is totally detrimental to our mental state of health. These events gradually lead to an increase in levels of stress and anxiety. As we all know, these are the most potent triggers of eczema. Hence, an eczematic flare is observed. This further leads to an increase in anxiety and stress levels.
How are Eczema and Stress related?
It is a known fact that stress leads to the stimulation of special gland cells which release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones, in the optimal limit, help in the reduction of stress. But, an overproduction of cortisol leads to the suppression of the immune system. This is the main cause of the inflammatory response in the skin.
The National Institute of Mental Health recommends a person take the utmost care and vigilance in case he/she has observed someone with the following conditions for a period of more than 2 weeks.
- A feeling of extreme sadness and loneliness
- Anxiety coupled with sadness
- Sleeping disorders related to anxiety
- Restless behavior leads to a hyperactive personality
- Extreme differences in body weight
- Suicidal or Homicidal intentions
- Concentration issues
Atopic dermatitis (or eczema) is a condition that is highly coupled with stress and anxiety. One should take the utmost care to prevent an eczematic flare.
Also Read: The Relation Between Eczema and Gluten
What are the Techniques Used to Relieve Eczema Stress?
1. Relaxation of the Body
A variety of options are available when it comes to countering stress. Eczematous flare might occur if a limb or a body part is kept stationary for a long time. Yoga and breathing exercises are a must if you need to control outbreaks of eczema. A daily walk or a jog in your favorite park might aid in the reduction of eczematous flare.
2. Have an Adequate Amount of Sleep
Patients having eczema usually suffer from insomnia. The itchy sensation on the entire body is the main reason for the same. Anti-histamines can be used to make yourself less itchy and drowsier. A warm, relaxing bath with lukewarm water would certainly assist your sleep cycle.
3. Control Your Diet
Gluten, nutty products, fish, and other food items provide a serious health risk to eczematic patients. Consumption of high-calorie compounds such as caffeine, sugar, alcohol, and processed foods deteriorates an eczematic flare.
4. Keep Exercising
Keeping your body active holds an important position in one’s health. All forms of exercise such as weightlifting, boxing, running, playing football, etc. are acceptable to eczema patients. But, swimming is certainly the most effective and useful technique to keep yourself active while suffering from eczema. Swimming makes sure that your body does not lose a huge amount of moisture. This aids in the protection against the dry, itchy rash of eczema.
Sweat is certainly a trigger for eczema, hence make sure that you take a good bath post your workout routine!
Hope this helps you develop a sound mind in a sound body having a sound skin!
