Almost one-third of skin diseases are based on psychological problems and require support. Stress directly affects our hormonal balance, which is managed by the brain. We call this balance the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. With the operation of this axis, some mediator signals secreted from nerve endings stimulated by stress are also secreted from nerve endings in the skin (neuropeptides). Thus, we have all seen changes in the skin such as itching and redness, which sometimes begin within seconds when we are under stress.
There is also a connection between the nervous system and our immune system. When under stress, white blood cell proliferation is impaired. The working order of existing white blood cells and mast cells is negatively affected, and the formation of new vessels is stimulated. Stress also slows down our defense system that works against microbes. It increases permeability in the skin barrier. In these ways, various skin diseases have the opportunity to start in people with the appropriate genetic structure.
Some skin diseases in which stress plays a role in the onset or recurrence:
-Ale disease (vitiligo) -Itching
-Psoriasis (psoriasis) -Rosacea
-Ringworm (alopecia areata) -Pimples (acne)
-Eczema (atopic dermatitis) -Hives (urticaria)
-Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) -Herpes (herpes)
In this article, we will talk about two common diseases related to stress.
Ringworm. :
Ringworm appears as areas of sudden, circular hair loss in the hair, beard, eyebrows and/or eyelashes. It is frequently encountered in society. Among the causes, stress is often at the forefront, as well as genetic predisposition and some vitamin deficiencies. Some studies found stress to be the cause in 75% of these patients. Interestingly, ringworm develops not immediately after the stressful situation, but 3-4 months later.
The individual with ringworm seems to express a request for help to the outside world. These people are generally introverted,&nbs p; are people who stay away from expressing themselves well. The disease usually begins in children when the mother or father is away or lost. Sometimes we see that it starts due to reasons such as starting school, class change, exam anxiety, problems with friends and teachers, having siblings. Hair is very important for body perception and social relations at almost all ages, including childhood. Patients also experience extra stress due to ringworm, and the disease remains in a vicious circle. For this reason, as dermatology experts, we almost always recommend psychological support in this group of diseases in order to learn methods of coping with stress in ringworm and to evaluate the source of stress.
Psoriasis:
Psoriasis is a chronic disease that progresses with occasional flare-ups. In this disease, the skin cycle is accelerated. White, pearl-coloured, shiny, dry crusts appear on the skin, on a red, slightly raised surface. Sometimes 3-4 areas with a diameter of a few cm are psoriasis, but sometimes it spreads to the whole body.
In addition to the genetic condition, stressful life events also have a very important place in the onset and exacerbations of psoriasis. Emotional state even affects the response to treatment. Keeping a diary, having a hobby, and engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga and sports are the recommendations we recommend to every psoriasis patient to reduce stress. Psychologist support is also recommended for more permanent and comprehensive stress management.
Similarly, vitiligo, hives, acne, etc. Psychological status has a major impact on the frequency and severity of recurrence of attacks, as well as on the onset of many skin diseases such as skin diseases.
As a result, skin diseases are often closely related to stress. The coexistence of skin diseases with conditions such as anxiety, depression, social phobia, and lack of self-confidence is common. For this reason, it may be necessary to work in cooperation with a psychologist and psychiatrist during the treatment of skin diseases.
I wish you healthy days.
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