Throughout April, we are focusing on skin health. The skin protects the body from external threats (bacteria, chemicals, etc.) and regulates body temperature. Although the skin is on the outside of our bodies, it can tell us a lot about what is going on inside. Skin can give us a glimpse into gut health, autoimmune conditions, hormone balance, hydration, and more!
In this post, we are talking about ECZEMA.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin. Eczema causes the skin to become dry, itchy, scaly, flaky, crusty, or bumpy. Eczema may also present as thick, leathery patches and cause swelling.
Many factors can contribute to eczema, including an interaction between your environment, your genes, and stress. Keep reading to learn about the 5 factors contributing to eczema.
5 Known Contributing Factors
Genetics
- You are more likely to have eczema if there is a family history of eczema.
- You are at a higher risk for eczema if there is a family history of asthma, hay fever, or allergies.
- Genetics will influence whether you present with just eczema, or comorbid with asthma, allergies, etc.
- Certain genetic mutations may impair the skin’s barrier function to work properly.
Immune System
- Individuals with eczema have a hypersensitive immune system. The immune system tends to overreact to small triggers.
- Immune system abnormalities of both type I (allergy) and type IV (sensitivity) reactions have been seen in individuals with eczema.
- These immune reactions could be triggered by inhaled allergens, food allergens, autoimmunity, contact allergens, etc.
- As a defense mechanism, the immune system will create inflammation which triggers eczema symptoms.
Skin Barrier
- The skin’s barrier is responsible for helping skin retain moisture and protect the body from the outside environment.
- Eczema can weaken the skin’s barrier function, leading to dryness, irritation, inflammation, and further skin barrier breakdown.
- Mutations in the gene that code for a key protein filaggrin are commonly seen. Filaggrin helps to strengthen & flatten skin cells. Without enough filaggrin, the skin can lose moisture, shrink, and develop gaps. Low filaggrin may also impact the skin’s pH, allowing abnormal bacterial growth that can trigger inflammation.
- The barrier may contain less ceramide, a skin lipid that’s important for locking in moisture. Inadequate ceramide can contribute to dryness, irritation, and barrier dysfunction.
Stress
- Chronic stress can lead to chronic cortisol elevations. This can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation.
- Increased inflammation can lead to a worsening of eczema symptoms.
- High stress, anxiety, and depression may cause more frequent flare-ups of eczema symptoms.
Environment
- Harsh soaps, certain fabrics, and skin care products may all trigger or exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Smoke and air pollutants can cause oxidative damage, skin barrier dysfunction, and immune system stimulation.
- Low humidity can cause skin to become dry and itchy.
- Sweating due to heat and high humidity can make itchiness even worse.
We hope you enjoyed this blog post “These are the 5 Factors Contributing to Eczema.” Let us know if you found this post helpful in the comments.
Are you interested in booking an appointment at Clem&Thyme Nutrition? We have three convenient locations in the state of Ohio – our flagship office in Yellow Springs and extension offices in Upper Arlington and Westerville in the Columbus area. We also offer virtual sessions and online programs. You can learn more about our registered dietitians to find the right fit for you. Click here to get started.
