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Magazine
January 24, 2023
Psychosomatic skin disorders are medical conditions that are linked to psychological factors, such as stress or emotional distress. These conditions can cause skin diseases, manifesting physical symptoms such as rashes, itching, and hives. They are often difficult to diagnose because the underlying causes are not always clear. Let’s take a closer look at psychosomatic skin disorders and what you can do to prevent or reduce their symptoms.
Psychosomatic skin disorders are a type of skin condition that is caused or worsened by psychological stress or emotional factors. Common psychosomatic skin conditions include atopic eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, hives (urticaria), and acne. The most common signs and symptoms of these disorders include redness or flushing of the affected area; itching; burning; pain; swelling; tenderness; dryness; scaly patches on the face or scalp; bumps or blisters on the face or scalp. While these physical symptoms may be present, it is important to note that their cause lies in our emotional state as well.
Fig. 1. Stress and anxiety can trigger the symptoms of psychosomatic skin disorders
Psychosomatic skin conditions are caused by an imbalance in mental health which results in physical changes in the body. Psychosomatic factors can include anxiety due to stressful life events such as job loss, death in the family, financial difficulties, etc., as well as unresolved issues that can cause chronic stress such as past traumas from childhood abuse. Other possible causes include depression, anger issues, personality conflicts, and low self-esteem. It’s also important to note that hormones can have an effect on our emotional state which can lead to psychosomatic skin conditions.
The best way to know if you have a psychosomatic disorder is to speak with your doctor who will be able to diagnose your condition based on your medical history, psychiatric symptoms, and physical examination. Your doctor may also suggest psychological testing such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which can help you identify any underlying mental health issues that may be contributing to your condition. Additionally, keeping a journal of your feelings and experiences throughout the day may help you better understand what triggers your psychological distress so that you can take steps toward managing them more effectively.
Psychosomatic skin disorders can often be difficult to diagnose because the physical symptoms may not always be present when an individual is feeling stressed or anxious. It is important for people to pay attention to their bodies and recognize when something doesn’t feel “right” before seeking medical help. Common signs that someone may have a psychosomatic disorder include feeling overwhelmed or anxious; skin picking due to anxiety disorders; difficulty concentrating; fatigue; headaches; unexplained rashes or hives; and unexplained itching or burning sensations on the skin.
Fig. 2. Eczema and psoriasis are examples of psychosomatic skin problems
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by redness, itching, scaling, and thickening of the skin. It typically appears on the face, scalp, hands, elbows, and knees but can also appear anywhere else on the body where sweat accumulates. Stress often triggers flare-ups of atopic dermatitis due to its effects on the immune system which leads to inflammation. This inflammation then triggers itchiness which causes further scratching leading to a cycle that is difficult to break out of without medical intervention.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes red patches covered with silvery scales that typically appear on elbows, knees, and scalp but can also appear anywhere else on the body including palms and soles of feet. Stress has been shown to trigger flare-ups due to its effects on the immune system which results in increased inflammation causing psoriatic lesions to form quicker than normal resulting in thicker scaling plaques appearing faster than usual.
Urticaria (hives) is another common psychosomatic skin disorder that manifests as raised red welts on the surface of the skin that itch intensely when touched or scratched. Allergies are one possible cause for this condition but it can also be triggered by emotional stressors like anxiety or depression—which makes sense considering how closely our bodies react to our emotions! Treatment usually involves avoidance strategies such as identifying potential triggers (such as certain foods) plus taking antihistamines if needed for symptom relief.
Acne is one of the most common psychosomatic skin disorders because it is often linked to stress levels as well as hormonal imbalances. Acne appears as whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, pimples, and nodules on the surface of the skin which can cause discomfort and embarrassment for those who suffer from it. Treatment for acne typically includes topical creams combined with lifestyle changes such as reducing stress levels through exercise or meditation to keep breakouts under control.
Rosacea is a condition characterized by facial redness which may be accompanied by bumps and pimples on the cheeks, nose, forehead, chin, and other areas of the face. The cause of rosacea remains unknown but there are several theories that suggest that genetics may play a role in its development along with emotional stressors such as anxiety and depression which may trigger flare-ups. Treatment for rosacea usually involves avoiding triggers like caffeine and alcohol while using topical medications to keep breakouts under control.
Fig. 3. Your doctor will identify the underlying causes of your skin problems
In treating psychosomatic skin disease, professionals have to identify the root cause of the condition. This may require talking with a mental health professional or dermatologist who can help determine if there is an underlying psychological issue contributing to the problem.
Once any underlying issues have been identified, treatment can begin with lifestyle changes such as getting adequate rest, reducing stress levels, and engaging in healthy activities like exercise or meditation. This may include counseling to help manage stress and anxiety levels or CBT to help change negative thought patterns that could be contributing to the condition. In some cases, antidepressant medications may also be prescribed in order to reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety that could be causing or aggravating the condition.
Fig. 4. Self-care activities can help reduce the risk of triggering psychosomatic skin disorders
In addition to seeking professional treatment for any underlying psychological issues causing your condition, there are also lifestyle changes that dermatology patients like you can make to help reduce the symptoms of a psychosomatic skin disorder. These include getting regular exercise (which has been shown to reduce stress), practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation, eating a healthy diet full of nutrient-dense foods, getting plenty of restful sleep each night, and avoiding triggers such as caffeine and alcohol that can worsen symptoms. It’s also important to practice self-care activities like journaling or taking up a hobby in order to give yourself some time away from stressful situations.
Psychosomatic skin disorders are caused by stress or anxiety that affects the body’s immune system resulting in physical symptoms on the skin such as acne or eczema. The best way to treat these conditions is by reducing your stress levels through lifestyle changes like exercise and relaxation activities combined with proper hygiene habits and medication when needed.
But in case you’re already suffering from psychosomatic skin disorders, the best option to soothe irritation is by using Medovie products.
At Medovie, we are passionate about helping people gain control of their skin health and quality of life. We have undergone rigorous clinical studies to develop the cutting-edge 3HX™ formula – a complete mixture of natural ingredients proven effective in managing chronic and psychosomatic skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Every product is consistently packed with a high concentration of active agents for maximum effectiveness that can provide lasting comfort and results.
Check out Medovie products today! You can also book an appointment with our skin experts to help you decide which of our products is right for you.
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