Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and dry skin. It is often thought of as a standalone condition that affects only the skin.

However, many studies have linked eczema with other underlying health problems that could be serious if left untreated.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a skin condition that affects about 10-20% of infants and young children and about 2-3% of adults. It is a chronic disease that can cause severe itching, dry skin, and redness.

It often affects the face, neck, hands, and legs, and can be triggered by a variety of factors such as stress, infection, or allergies. Eczema is often seen in families with a history of other allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever.

Skin Barrier Issues

The outermost layer of the skin is called the skin barrier, which is responsible for keeping moisture inside the skin and protecting it from environmental irritants. When the skin barrier is damaged, it can lead to the development of eczema.

In some cases, this damage to the skin barrier can be caused by an underlying health condition such as hypothyroidism or malnutrition.

Allergies and Food Sensitivities

Eczema is often seen in people with allergies or food sensitivities. In some cases, the food that triggers eczema can be identified and eliminated from the diet. Foods that are commonly associated with eczema include eggs, dairy products, and peanuts.

In other cases, a patch test to identify specific allergens may be necessary to prevent future flare-ups.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the body mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. Researchers have found a link between eczema and autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and celiac disease.

This link may be due to the immune system dysfunction that is present in autoimmune diseases.

Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that regulates many bodily functions. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, it can lead to a number of health problems including eczema.

Researchers have found that people with eczema are more likely to have thyroid dysfunction than those without eczema.

Mental Health

Eczema can also be linked to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The itching, pain, and social stigma associated with eczema can have a negative impact on a person’s mental health.

Unfortunately, this can lead to a vicious cycle of eczema flare-ups caused by stress and anxiety.

Infections

Eczema can make the skin more vulnerable to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. These infections can make eczema symptoms worse and can lead to more serious health problems if left untreated.

Researchers have found a link between eczema and Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria that can cause skin infections. People with eczema may be more prone to this type of infection due to their weakened immune systems.

Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity are also linked to eczema. It is thought that these conditions can affect the skin’s natural protective barrier, making it more susceptible to eczema flare-ups.

In addition, people with metabolic disorders may have a weakened immune system, making it harder for them to fight off infections that can trigger eczema.

Medication Side Effects

Some medications can cause eczema as a side effect. One example is beta-blockers, which are used to treat high blood pressure and other conditions. These medications can cause skin dryness and itching, leading to eczema symptoms.

Other medications that may cause eczema include pain relievers, antibiotics, and antifungal medications.

Conclusion

Eczema is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it is typically thought of as a standalone condition that affects only the skin, there is growing evidence that eczema may be a sign of underlying health problems.

These can range from skin barrier issues and allergies to autoimmune diseases and medication side effects. If you are suffering from eczema, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop an effective treatment plan.