What causes eczema?
What causes eczema?
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is caused by a combination of immune system activation, genetics, environmental triggers and stress.
- Your immune system. If you have eczema, your immune system overreacts to small irritants or allergens. This overreaction can inflame your skin.
- Your genetics. You’re more likely to have eczema if there is a history of dermatitis in your family. You’re also at a higher risk if there’s a history of asthma, hay fever and/or allergens. Allergens are substances like pollen, pet hair or foods that trigger an allergic reaction. Also, there might be a change in your genes that control a protein that helps your body maintain healthy skin. Without normal levels of that protein, your skin will not be completely healthy.
- Your environment. There is a lot in your environment that can irritate your skin. Some examples include exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollutants, harsh soaps, fabrics such as wool and some skin products. Low humidity (dry air) can cause your skin to become dry and itchy. Heat and high humidity can cause sweating and that can make the itchiness even worse.
- Your stress. Your stress levels can cause or worsen your eczema. There are mental/emotional signs of stress and physical signs of stress. They include:
Mental/emotional signs:
- Depression.
- Difficulty relaxing.
- Use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs to relax.
- A negative opinion of yourself (low self-esteem).
- Anxiety, constant worry.
- Feeling overwhelmed.
- Difficulty with concentration.
- Irritability, mood swings, or a short temper.
Physical signs:
- Nausea and dizziness.
- Not wanting to have sex.
- Sleeping too much.
- Sleeping too little.
- Diarrhea.
- Constipation.
- Muscle tension.
- Aches and pains.