Rather, symptoms vacillate from worse to better to worse again, often thanks to specific “triggers” that activate inflammation. “There are many potential triggers for eczema, and each individual may have specific triggers for their own symptoms,” says Peter Lio, MD, a dermatologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
Overly dry skinDry, cold climate, particularly during winterSweatIrritants such as metals, cigarette smoke, fragrances, and fabrics like wool and polyesterAllergens such as mold, pollen, dust mites, and pet danderVarious foods that cause allergic reactions, such as eggs, soy, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, wheat, and milkBacterial, viral, and fungal infectionsHormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or in the days before menstruation
Another common trigger for eczema symptoms is stress. “Stress is a very common trigger for both children and adults,” Dr. Lio says. While there are many theories about how stress and eczema are connected, researchers have found that there is a network in the body that both directly and indirectly affects the immune system, the skin barrier, and behavioral aspects of eczema, he explains. “One of the hardest parts is that there can be a vicious cycle: the skin and symptoms cause more stress, which then, in turn, worsens the skin,” Lio says. The HPA axis increases the amount of cortisol — a stress hormone — circulating in the body.
Cortisol is an immune system regulator and ultimately causes an imbalance in the body’s different types of immune responses, resulting in the increase of cell signaling molecules that promote inflammation. The body also experiences various other physiological changes that affect the skin. Other complementary relaxation techniques include:
Light, graceful exercises, such as yoga, tai chi, or balletPositive imagery or visualization, in which you focus your thoughts on an image associated with your desired change, such as a tropical rain forest to represent moist skinAcupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine in which thin needles are inserted at specific points of the bodyDistraction activities, such as writing, painting, video games, and knittingListening to soothing music or nature sounds
Lio says he typically introduces his patients to several of these techniques and asks which ones sound good to them. “Finding ways to relax and de-stress are critical,” he says. “Sometimes it takes a few tries to find the right fit for someone, but once found, it can make a tremendous impact.” Lack of sleep can cause stress and worsen eczema symptoms, especially if sleeplessness occurs the night before an important activity or tiredness interferes with important activities during the day. According to the National Eczema Association, these tips will help you get a better night’s sleep:
Wake up and go to bed at the same time every day.Create a consistent, relaxing bedtime routine.Stop using electronics 30-60 minutes before bedtime.Limit caffeine intake after lunch.Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and comfortable.
Additional reporting by Ashley Welch.
