today is World Atopic Dermatitis DayA chronic and inflammatory disease which affects the skin more 2 million people in spainOf which 30,000 adults and more than 20,000 children suffer from a severe version of the disease (HGD) with skin lesions. Itching continuous and intense, dryness and/or cracks in the skin. Today there are many studies that demonstrate this Impact on quality of life The number of people who suffer from it can equal or even surpass that of serious diseases like cancer. think only about physical symptoms atopic dermatitis involves ignoring your close relationship with mental health, Itching, Swelling And redness usually reflects a very high psychosocial impact that goes unnoticed. we talk to him Dermatologist Pablo de la CuevaHead of Dermatology Service of Infanta Leonor HospitalAbout the connection between this pathology and us psychological health,
What is atopic dermatitis and how is it related to stress?
Atopic dermatitis can also affect sleep quality.
“The atopic dermatitis (AD) is a genetically based disease, characterized by Swelling of the skin, including the interaction of the skin with certain environmental factors psychologistappears to control its course and prognosis,” explains Dr. Pablo de la Cueva. It is often said that people with dermatitis nervous peopleVery responsible… “His personality is usually full of difficulty impulse control and there are many of them depend on their environment“, explains Dr. de la Cueva. In fact, “the impact of critical events stressful There is no doubt about the disease.” Why? The explanation is simple. “When we experience a stressful situation, our body goes into fight or flight mode and responds by increasing the production stress hormone Like adrenaline and cortisol. Too much cortisol can be removed immune system And provokes an inflammatory response in the skin. Therefore, people with skin diseases are especially sensitive to it. inflammatory reactions,
Why your skin reveals your mental health and vice versa
A recent survey was conducted by National Eczema AssociationIt was found that more than 30% of people atopic dermatitis Have been diagnosed with depression and/or anxiety. In fact, 86% see patients of self respect Which claims to avoid daily activities such as bathing, wearing shorts, skirts or short-sleeved T-shirts, even if the temperature exceeds 40º. “Recent evidence suggests an increase in Risk of depression 60% In patients with this pathology. There may also be a problem of insomnia And stress, due to the associated itching and pain, since constant attention is required to keep the symptoms under control,” explains the dermatologist. “Therefore, it is very important to receive early attention – in most cases, the first symptoms appear at an early age -, long-term treatment, due to its longevity, and multidisciplinary therapy.” In this sense, recent research suggests Runs that itch or itch (the most important symptom of atopic dermatitis) “Can be modified through the cutaneous neurohormonal system.” Controlling and managing impulses is a very important objective in people suffering from this disease. In fact, the doctor explains, “Tests have been done with different people relaxation techniquesBiofeedback, meditation and even hypnotherapy demonstrate that the skin’s threshold for itch can be modified and thus the itch and subsequent scratching that cause eczema lesions on the skin can be avoided. Is made. atopic dermatitis,