Are Itchy Skin Conditions And Mental Health Linked? – BrownGirlMag

Itchy skin goes beyond the physical symptoms. According to some studies, there is a correlation between itchy skin and mental health.

It can be tricky to figure out the cause of itchy skin but once youve done that, you can make peace with yourself.

Itch can be referred to as an unpleasant sensation that leads to the urge to scratch. Itch is a common symptom and nearly one-third of the population experiences it each week.

Itching is related to skin inflammation and inflammation induces serotonin networks in the brain leading to poor mental health. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well being. Serotonin is also called the happy chemical.

Itching starts when the inflammation first appears and never really stops. There is a constant urge to scratch the affected skin that leads to injury.

Itching can lead to emotional turbulence so it is important to use stress relieving techniques like yoga, meditation and deep breathing. Itch affects the quality of life as it may cause the following symptoms

Our skin is the largest organ in the body. It has 3 layers namely epidermis, dermis and hypodermis.

The outermost layer of the skin has a protective barrier (stratum corneum). The function of this barrier is to prevent water loss from the skin and keep bacterial infections out of the skin.

When there is a foreign substance entering the skin, skin cells trigger inflammation. This leads to a rash and can lead to itching.

Dry skin lacks the essential natural oils in the skin. It is triggered by environmental factors or excessive washing. Dry skin feels rough, scaly, chapped or flaky.

Eczema occurs when the skin barrier is weak and susceptible to microbial infections. The affected area becomes dry, irritated and inflamed.

Skin allergy is characterized by a red, itchy rash, blisters or bumps. Allergens including chemicals, soaps, cosmetics, food ingredients, jewelry, etc.

Rosacea is a skin condition associated with acne and abnormal blood vessels. Rosacea majorly affects fair-skinned people who tend to blush easily.

Hives are a kind of skin inflammation caused when a chemical called histamine is released in the body. Causes of hives include a particular food or medication, hot or cold weather and sun exposure.

Bug bites appear as a result of bites from mosquitoes, bed bugs, spiders and mites. Keeping the surroundings clean and using a repellent is helpful in managing bug bites.

Eczema or hives can be treated with corticosteroid creams. Allergies are treated with antihistamines. Fungal infections can be treated by antifungal creams or oral medications. Topical antihistamines help treat bug bites.

Consult your dermatologist to identify the cause of your itchy skin before you begin any therapy.

Living with an itch is emotionally draining but with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can steer clear of itch.

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Are Itchy Skin Conditions And Mental Health Linked? - BrownGirlMag