Stress in the body can lead to various diseases affecting the whole system, including cardiovascular issues, mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, and skin conditions.
The skin can be significantly impacted by physiological reactions, leading to issues such as hair loss, acne, allergies, and other related effects as a result of stress.
In this article, you will discover the primary signs of stress in the body and skin, as well as various treatment options. Take a look!
Symptoms of stress include physical and mental manifestations.
Stress can impact different areas of our lives, such as cognitive functions, actions, feelings, and overall physical well-being. In essence, every part of the body can be affected. Here are some signs of bodily and skin stress.
Acne is a skin condition.
Acne is often the most noticeable physical symptom of stress, as people tend to touch their faces more frequently when feeling stressed, which can spread bacteria and worsen acne.
Acne might be linked to increased stress levels, as indicated by a Stanford University survey that focused on individuals aged 18 to 41 with acne who were attending university.
Acne worsened during periods of increased stress, as observed in two separate instances: one month before final exams and two weeks after their completion.
A different research study published in the National Library of Medicine involved 94 teenagers and found a connection between increased stress levels and acne, particularly in boys. However, this study only suggests a correlation and does not take into account other potential contributing factors.
Stress can lead to acne by weakening the body’s immune system, making the skin less effective at managing bacteria and resulting in clogged pores and breakouts.
Acne can result from various factors such as clogged pores, increased oil production, bacteria, hormonal shifts, and stress.
Hair loss is the thinning or loss of hair.
Cortisol is released by the body during stressful times, which inhibits nutrient access to the capillary area, resulting in premature termination of the growth phase and weakening of hair strands, ultimately leading to hair loss.
Treatment is available for hair loss caused by stress, but simply consulting a dermatologist may not be sufficient in such cases.
The professional in charge of diagnosing and treating the condition may recommend treatment from psychiatrists, psychologists, and medications like sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs.
It is important to consider the well-being of both the physical and mental aspects of our bodies, as they should be a top priority.
Head pain
Stress has been linked to headaches, which are identified by pain in the neck or head area, according to various studies.
Approximately 45% of individuals with migraines developed chronic headaches after experiencing a stressful event, as shown in a study published in the National Library of Medicine involving 267 participants.
The research also highlighted that the rise in stress levels was connected to more frequent headaches occurring within a one-month timeframe.
Daily worries can lead to stress, but there is a significant distinction between worrying and thoughtful consideration.
When we engage in problem-solving, our thinking process is activated. But when we are anxious, we tend to get stuck in the same patterns of thinking, which can result in mental exhaustion and headaches.
Allergic reactions
Stress can impact the skin by harming the immune system and potentially causing various diseases, in addition to increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues like heart attacks and high blood pressure.
Other skin conditions can deteriorate due to stress, not just acne.
- Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory condition that results in red lesions on the skin that can peel and become very uncomfortable. It is often linked to conditions like rhinitis, asthma, and bronchitis. Triggers for flare-ups include emotional stress, dry environments, cold weather, sweating, and heat.
- Psoriasis is a long-lasting inflammatory condition characterized by dry patches and scales that typically develop on the scalp, knees, and elbows. It is often linked to genetics and can be worsened by stress, alcohol consumption, and cold weather.
- Hives are a sudden skin irritation that can occur anywhere on the body, either lasting less than 6 weeks (acute) or persisting for months or years (chronic). Stress is not the primary cause of hives, but it can exacerbate symptoms.
- Vitiligo is characterized by the lack or decrease of melanin in various areas of the body, leading to the appearance of white spots. Stress can be a common trigger for the onset of the condition in individuals with a genetic predisposition.
How to manage stress effectively?
Some treatments, like lymphatic drainage, can help alleviate stress by stimulating the lymphatic system through massage techniques.
The primary advantages of this method include reducing swelling, minimizing cellulite, decreasing measurements, reducing water retention, removing toxins from the body, and enhancing the appearance and hydration of the skin.
Other effective massage techniques for reducing stress include more than just lymphatic drainage.
- Ayurvedic massage, a traditional practice using natural oils to stimulate muscles and joints with vigorous movements, has been used for many years to eliminate toxins and combat cellulite.
- Reflexology is a method originating from China that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet to rebalance the body’s systems and organs.
- Shiatsu aims to release energy flow by applying pressure with the thumbs, fingers, and palms at specific points.
It is crucial to stay vigilant about stress symptoms in the skin and body and take steps to maintain good health. Engaging in physical activity, eating well, prioritizing adequate rest, and seeking therapy are essential for managing stress effectively.
Did you enjoy the content? Check out our article on reducing water retention.
