What Causes Eczema?
😳 Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that affects approximately 10% of the US population.
Many people searching for what causes eczema are surprised to learn that it is often connected to immune dysfunction, environmental triggers, allergies, and chronic inflammation within the body.
It is characterized by symptoms such as dry skin, itchiness, rashes, scaly patches, blisters, and skin infections.
Common eczema symptoms include dry itchy skin, redness, inflammation, flaking, irritation, and recurring eczema flare ups that may worsen during times of stress or exposure to allergens.
Eczema tends to peak in childhood, with 80% of sufferers developing it before the age of 6, but it is most common in adult women. It can be accompanied by deep lines in the palms, skin infections, and even mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
🧴Treatment typically involves removing/avoiding triggers, such as harsh soaps and detergents, swimming pool chemicals, fragrances, and certain fabrics. Moisturizers can help improve the skin barrier and soothe irritation. For severe cases, topical corticosteroids or oral antihistamines may be prescribed, along with injectable biologic medication or even phototherapy.
Identifying eczema triggers is one of the most important parts of long-term eczema treatment. Triggers can include food sensitivities, harsh chemicals, fragrances, stress, environmental toxins, and immune system imbalances.
Eczema is an environmental disease caused by stress, toxic metals, allergens, and chemicals. It is an allergic reaction to some type of irritant and an indicator that the immune system is off balance. Trauma, toxins, and thoughts are the three T's that can lead to an altered immune response, throwing the body off balance and leading to eczema. Physical stressors that may lead to eczema include injuries, a traumatic loss, severe illness, surgery, and more. Biochemical stressors include mother’s sugar intake during pregnancy, food allergies, smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, fungal and other infections, and dust mites.
Research continues to explore the connection between eczema and gut health, as inflammation and digestive imbalances may contribute to immune system dysfunction and chronic skin inflammation.
At The Wellness Way Raleigh, we focus on natural eczema relief by identifying underlying stressors, inflammation patterns, allergies, and lifestyle factors that may be contributing to symptoms.
🧩 We'll help you get to the root cause of what is triggering your Eczema, give our office a call to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors! 919-803-5015 📲 or use our scheduling link