Each body responds differently to different kinds of stimuli, including stress. Some common physical symptoms that are shown by the body in response to psychological stress are headaches, nausea, stomach pain, chest pain or skin issues. But when you get red and itchy bumps on your skin, you might be experiencing a stress rash.
Have you ever wondered why this happens? Why does stress lead to skin problems? The answer is simple. There is a connection between our mental and physical health. It may come as a surprise, but stress can cause dermatological issues such as acne, stress-induced rashes, and many more.
In this blog, we will delve into the relationship between stress and skin rashes its signs and symptoms. Moreover, we will also look into potential treatments and prevention tips for healthier skin. Always seek medical assistance from the best dermatologist before taking any medications.
Relationship Between Stress & Skin Diseases
The mind-body connection plays the most important role in keeping the body healthy. Our thoughts, emotions, and feelings can significantly affect the physical health of our body. Likewise, psychological stress and many other conditions can cause stress-induced skin problems.
Research shows that when your body is under stressful situations, it alarms your sympathetic nervous system. It in return releases hormones such as cortisol, neuropeptides, catecholamines, and mast cells. These hormones can cause many skin issues such as:
- Skin Inflammation (Swelling, Itching, Redness)
- Impair Wound Healing
- Suppress Immunity
- Increase Itching
- Impair Skin Barrier Function
Signs and Symptoms of Stress Rash
Stress can trigger a flare-up as a result of skin patches that can appear anywhere on the body. Mostly, they appear on the face, chest, arms, neck, or chest. These patches are commonly known as skin rashes or hives.
Texture and Size
They are usually itchy, raised, swollen, and warm to the touch. From the size of a pencil tip to the size of a dinner plate, their size may vary.
Color
Apart from the size, their color may vary according to the skin color.
- On pale or white skin, they are usually pink or red.
- On brown or black skin, they are commonly bumpy. Moreover, they are of a slightly darker color than the natural skin tone or slightly pink.
Blisters
Some stress-induced rashes can become blisters. Blisters are protruding that are filled with cloudy or clear fluid. These blisters can break open and vary in size.
Swelling
If your skin rises or becomes puffy, then it can also be a stress-induced rash. The affected area may or may not change the color of your skin but it can slightly swell.
Crusting
Another very common rash symptom is scaling or crusting. It develops when the upper layer of the skin becomes dry and begins to peel off. The affected area becomes very rough, dry and itchy.
Skin Rash Treatment – What to Do?
Hives usually go away on their own. They can be treated at home. But in cases, where they stay for longer periods, usually over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines are prescribed. They can relieve itching and related symptoms. Some commonly used antihistamines are:
- Claritin
- Benadryl
- Zyrtec
- Allegra
- Anti Itching Creams Like Cortisone, CeraVe, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream
Moreover, mindfulness meditation and mindfulness coping skills can be beneficial for certain skin conditions.
Natural Home Remedies
There are several potential natural home remedies to relieve your stress-induced rashes. Some of them are given below:
- Take a soothing milk bath or lukewarm water shower.
- Use fragrance-free products.
- Avoid heat showers and humidity.
- Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Place a cooling pad on the affected area.
- Avoid wearing tight clothes.
How to Prevent Stress-Related Skin Disorders
In simple terms, stress is the body’s reaction to certain situations or overwhelming feelings. If you have a rash or any other skin issue, then it might be a warning sign that you need to lessen the stress sources.
Stress is one of the major psychological causes of skin rash. Therefore, whether the stress is due to finances, job, relationships, or studies, it needs to be tackled promptly.
Here are some of the tips that you can follow to reduce stress and associated skin disorders.
- Have a balanced diet.
- Get adequate sleep.
- Practice yoga or mindfulness meditation
- Exercise Regularly
- Join a support or therapy group.
- Be mindful of your commitments.
- Engage yourself in hobbies such as dancing, baking, reading, etc.
When to Consult a Doctor
If natural home remedies are not working for you, then it is time to consult a top dermatologist for treatment. before taking medication on your own. If your daily working and sleeping routines are affected by stress-induced skin conditions, then seek professional help.
A professional healthcare provider can prescribe you related medicines that can help in relieving pain and stress-related skin disorders.
A Brief Recap
In conclusion, there are many psychological factors in skin disease that you may be unaware of. Therefore, it is important to understand what your body responds to.
If you’re facing stress-related skin issues, then you are not alone. There’s nothing to worry about. Reduce the activities that cause stress and engage in activities that promote good physical and mental health.
If self-care is not giving any positive results, then visit a doctor for an effective treatment.
FAQ’s
Q1. What are Some Common Psychological Stress-Related Skin Issues?
Apart from skin rashes, stress can also cause many other skin problems. Some of them are rosacea, hives, eczema, acne, psoriasis, and many more.
Q2. Why is Sleep Important for Healthy Skin?
When you’re sleeping, your body cells repair, regenerate, and rejuvenate. Moreover, your body also repairs itself for the upcoming tasks. Therefore, plenty of quality sleep can support healthy skin and radiance.
Q3. Can Stress Cause Chronic Skin Diseases?
Yes! Stress can cause several chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea.
