Psychosomatic causes of dermatological pathologies

Doctors have long ago identified the connection between psychosomatics and the emergence, development of dermatological diseases. In some people, the skin may become an indicator of stress, when, with every nervous shock, a relapse of a chronic dermatological disease occurs, or itching, redness simply appears, as if an allergic reaction manifests itself. There is even a concept of “nervous psoriasis”.

How psychosomatics works for skin diseases

Stress leads to hormonal changes in the body. At the peak of the experience, adrenaline is released into the bloodstream, the main stress hormone, cortisol, grows and is kept at high levels. Hormonal disturbances, in turn, can lead to changes in metabolism and reactive changes in the skin. A stressful situation, especially of a prolonged nature, can even become a trigger for the onset of psoriasis, neurodermatitis and many other skin pathologies. According to some reports, about 70-80% of dermatological diseases are psychosomatic in nature.

Here are some typical skin conditions that can be caused or exacerbated by stress:

  • psoriasis;
  • atopic dermatitis;
  • hyperhidrosis;
  • primary itching;
  • rosacea ;
  • seborrheic dermatitis;
  • a variety of skin sensory syndromes;
  • chronic itching of the scalp.

Also, a variety of skin symptoms can occur in psychiatric diseases such as body dysmorphic disorder , trichotillomania .

Since psychosomatics plays a huge role in the initiation and treatment of skin diseases, dermatologists can recommend sedatives, psychotherapy sessions, meditation, magnesium and B vitamins to their patients to support the nervous system. For example, an ointment for psoriasis will work much better, and remission will last longer if a person tries to avoid stress and form a positive outlook on life.   

Dermatitis against the background of psychosomatics is not uncommon. The following signs appear on the body and face of a person:

  • itching;
  • redness;
  • small rash;
  • dryness and flaking;
  • bubbles;
  • cracks.

Often against the background of stress, neurodermatitis and psoriasis are exacerbated . New lesions appear, which begin to itch unbearably. As a result, a person combs them, only aggravating the situation and contributing to the further spread of the process.  

The human psyche and body are inextricably linked. Stress, chronic fatigue, anxiety, worries can lead to violations of the barrier function of the skin, to the appearance or exacerbation of dermatological diseases. For those who have already encountered skin pathologies, it is important to know this and control stress.

event_note August 16, 2021

account_box Dr. Peter B Milburn

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