Eczema is a skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin that can affect people of all ages.

Although it’s typically regarded as a skin condition, research has shown that eczema is linked to various health issues, which can make its management more complicated. In this article, we’ll delve into the connection between eczema and health issues, and what you can do about it.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, dry, and scaly. There are different types of eczema that affect people of all ages, but the most common type is atopic dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis is usually diagnosed in childhood and is often associated with other allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever. Eczema can be triggered by different factors such as irritants, allergies, stress, and hormonal changes. Although eczema can be managed, there is no cure for the condition.

What are the health issues associated with eczema?

Eczema is not just a skin problem, it’s also associated with other health issues that can make its management more complicated. Here are some of the most common health issues that are linked to eczema:.

Allergies

Atopic dermatitis is often associated with other allergic conditions such as food allergies, hay fever, and asthma. This is because people with atopic dermatitis have a weakened skin barrier, which can make them more susceptible to allergens.

The sensitization to allergens can start in childhood and can lead to other allergic conditions later in life.

Mental health conditions

Research has shown that there is a link between eczema and mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. People with eczema are more likely to experience anxiety and depression due to the impact of the condition on their quality of life.

The constant itching, discomfort, and embarrassment can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

Autoimmune disorders

A study conducted by the National Eczema Association found that people with eczema are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases, such as celiac disease, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

This is because both eczema and autoimmune diseases are caused by an overactive immune system that attacks healthy cells and tissues.

Sleep problems

Eczema can affect your sleep quality due to the constant itching and discomfort. Lack of sleep can, in turn, exacerbate the symptoms of eczema, leading to a vicious cycle.

According to a study, 70 percent of children with eczema experience sleep problems, and this can also affect their academic performance.

Obesity

There is evidence to suggest that there is a link between eczema and obesity. A study found that people with severe eczema are more likely to be obese than those without the condition.

Although the link between eczema and obesity is not fully understood, it’s thought to be related to the negative impact of eczema on people’s physical activity and their ability to manage their weight.

What can you do about it?

Managing eczema can be challenging, especially when it’s associated with other health issues. Here are some tips to help manage your eczema and the associated health issues:.

Avoid triggers

Identifying and avoiding triggers is one of the most effective ways to manage eczema and the associated health issues. Common triggers include irritants, allergens, stress, and hormonal changes.

You can keep a diary to identify your triggers and take steps to avoid them, such as using fragrance-free products, wearing gloves when cleaning, and managing stress through activities such as yoga and mindfulness meditation.

Moisturize your skin

Keeping your skin moisturized is essential to manage eczema and prevent flare-ups. You can use emollients and moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness, cracking, and itching.

Moisturize your skin immediately after bathing, while it’s still damp, and apply it generously to affected areas throughout the day.

Use medication

If your eczema is severe, your doctor may prescribe medication to manage the symptoms. Medication can include topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, oral antihistamines, and immune-modulating agents.

Some medications may have side effects, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits before taking them.

Seek mental health support

If you’re struggling with the mental health aspects of eczema, it’s important to seek support. You can talk to your doctor about your concerns, and they may refer you to a mental health professional for support.

You can also seek support groups or counseling to help you cope with the psychological impact of the condition.

Conclusion

Eczema is a skin condition that can be associated with various health issues, including allergies, mental health conditions, autoimmune disorders, sleep problems, and obesity.

Managing eczema can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can reduce the severity of the condition and improve your quality of life. By avoiding triggers, keeping your skin moisturized, using medication, and seeking mental health support, you can manage eczema and the associated health issues effectively.