Can Stress Cause Eczema on the Eyelids? - An Expert's Perspective

Stress does not cause eczema, period. At most, stress can be an aggravating factor or trigger an outbreak of atopic eczema, but the cause is atopic skin, which is genetic. Eczema outbreaks, such as other skin conditions, can be triggered by stress. Stress causes an increase in the hormone cortisol (sometimes called the stress hormone).

When the body produces high amounts of cortisol due to stress, the skin can become abnormally oily. This can trigger an outbreak of eczema. A study also suggests that stress makes it difficult for the skin to recover from skin irritation and damage. Stress not only causes eczema, but it can also cause outbreaks of eczema to last longer and, as a result, you feel more stressed.

This can lead to a seemingly endless cycle. From its red, rash-like appearance to relentless itching and sleepless nights, living with eczema can be a challenge to our emotional well-being. Anxiety and stress are common triggers that cause an outbreak of eczema, which then creates more anxiety and stress, which in turn leads to more outbreaks of eczema. So how do we break this vicious cycle? Around the mouth or eyes, on the eyelids, on the nose, and even in the ears.

Indirect contact can also occur through another person, such as a parent who, for example, applies cream to their hands before carrying their baby. This is known as “power contact”. In adults, red, scaly patches of seborrheic dermatitis stick to the folds on both sides of the nose and along the edge of the scalp, which is also affected by “itchy dandruff”.In part, the fault of this disease is a fungus. Symptoms of eczema, which may include very dry and itchy skin that may crack and ooze clear fluid when scratched, are not constant.

For eyelid eczema specifically, you may experience inflamed or red skin on and around the eyelid, or cracked and discolored skin in the general area, according to board-certified dermatologist Ife J. Because eczema can be caused by allergic reactions, exposure to airborne pollution or other toxins, as well as chemicals in everyday products can trigger an outbreak of eczema. Read on to learn more about eczema triggers and outbreaks and how you can work with your own body to relieve symptoms. There is no guarantee that you will end up with a bunch of interconnected eye problems just because you have eyelid eczema, but making sure you treat it and your delicate eyelids correctly can reduce your risk. This can range from fairly easy to completely absurd, depending on what specifically incites your eczema.

Some home treatments, such as coconut oil, can also help relieve symptoms of eczema and prevent new breakouts by moisturizing the skin. In some people, eczema is due to a genetic mutation that affects the body's ability to make a protein in the skin called filagrin. Because high levels of stress can trigger eczema, some people feel the need to smoke a cigarette or use another tobacco product to reduce stress. Atopic dermatitis, which is the general term people refer to when they say eczema, is a chronic condition that occurs due to a problem with the skin's protective barrier according to the Mayo Clinic. Atopic dermatitis, more commonly known as eczema, can be a bothersome condition especially because of the many triggers that can cause an outbreak of red itchy rashes.

This is because human sweat contains trace elements of nickel zinc copper iron and sodium among others and the accumulation of these natural chemicals in the skin can irritate eczema. If you're having trouble managing anxiety or stress talk to your doctor about ways to manage it yourself or with the help of therapy or medication. If you notice outbreaks of eczema after exercising reduce the intensity of your training or choose a cooler time of day to complete training sessions. The link between psychological stress and eczema is multifaceted although the connection seems to come from stress hormones.

To break this cycle it is important for those suffering from atopic dermatitis to identify their triggers and take steps to reduce their exposure. It is also important for those suffering from atopic dermatitis to practice good self-care habits such as using gentle cleansers avoiding harsh soaps and detergents wearing loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibers like cotton avoiding extreme temperatures using mild moisturizers regularly and avoiding scratching. By understanding how stress affects our bodies we can take steps towards reducing our risk for developing atopic dermatitis flare-ups. With proper care and understanding we can break this cycle and live happier healthier lives.

Riya Hutchings
Riya Hutchings

On a quest to combat Contact Dermatitis!