Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people around the world. While its symptoms are largely physical in nature, eczema can have a substantial impact on a person’s overall health and wellbeing.

In this article, we’ll explore the various ways in which eczema can affect a person’s health, and discuss some of the steps that can be taken to mitigate or manage these effects.

Mental Health

One of the most significant ways in which eczema can impact a person’s health is through its effects on mental wellbeing.

Chronic eczema can cause intense itching, which can lead to disrupted sleep, increased stress, and even depression and anxiety. In a 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, researchers found that people with eczema have a higher risk of developing anxiety and depression than those without eczema.

This link is thought to be partly due to the disruptive effects eczema can have on sleep patterns. In addition to this, the social stigma associated with eczema can also be a source of stress and anxiety for some people.

Children with eczema, for example, may be more prone to bullying or social exclusion, which can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety.

Physical Health

While eczema is primarily a skin condition, it can have a number of physical effects throughout the body. One potential complication of eczema is skin infection, which can occur when the skin is broken or irritated.

Due to the persistent itching and scratching associated with eczema, skin infections are a relatively common occurrence. These infections can then lead to further health complications if left untreated.

Additionally, some studies have suggested that people with severe eczema may be at an increased risk of developing other chronic health conditions, such as asthma and allergies. While the precise reasons for this link are not yet fully understood, it is thought that chronic inflammation may be a contributing factor.

Quality of Life

Finally, eczema can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. The persistent itching, pain, and discomfort associated with eczema can make it difficult to carry out daily activities, sleep, and socialize with others.

In some cases, the symptoms of eczema may be so severe that a person is unable to work or participate in other aspects of life. Furthermore, the constant care required to manage eczema can be a source of stress and anxiety, which can further worsen a person’s quality of life.

For children with eczema, the impact can be particularly profound, as it can affect their ability to learn and participate in school.

Management Strategies

Despite the many challenges associated with eczema, there are several strategies that can be employed to help manage its impact on overall health. These include:.

1. Skin Care

The key to managing eczema symptoms is effective skin care. This includes regular moisturization with a high-quality emollient cream or ointment, as well as gentle cleansing with soap-free products.

2. Avoiding Triggers

Eczema triggers can vary widely from person to person, but some common triggers include stress, certain foods, and exposure to environmental irritants such as pollen or pet dander.

Avoiding these triggers can help to reduce the severity of eczema symptoms.

3. Medications

For some people with severe eczema, prescription medications may be necessary to manage symptoms. These can include topical corticosteroids, immunomodulatory drugs, and oral antihistamines.

4. Therapy

For those who experience significant mental health effects as a result of eczema, therapy may be an effective treatment option. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, has been shown to be beneficial for people with eczema and anxiety.

Conclusion

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that can have significant effects on a person’s overall health and wellbeing. From mental health to physical health to quality of life, the ripple effect of eczema can be substantial.

However, by employing the right management strategies, it is possible to manage the symptoms of eczema and minimize its impact on overall health.