Advanced atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema, is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It’s a chronic condition that often starts in childhood but can persist through the adult years. Research suggests that, in addition to physical symptoms, atopic dermatitis can impact your quality of life and place you at higher risk of experiencing depression and anxiety.
Understanding advanced atopic dermatitis
There’s no formal definition for advanced atopic dermatitis. Eczema severity occurs along a spectrum. However, advanced cases generally affect larger areas of your body or have more intense symptoms, such as:
- redness
- swelling
- thickening of skin
- oozing or crusting
- bleeding
Severe atopic dermatitis can be more challenging to treat. It may interfere with your sleep and cause difficulties at school or work.
Recognizing the link between atopic dermatitis and mental health
The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it’s believed to involve a disruption in your skin’s barrier, your immune system’s reaction, and inflammation in your body.
The experience of emotional stress appears to affect eczema. Stress causes your body to produce hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. If cortisol levels become too high, they can affect your immune system and cause inflammation. This can lead to a worsening of your atopic dermatitis symptoms.
To complicate matters, the interplay of stress and atopic dermatitis can create a vicious cycle. When symptoms flare, they can make you feel exhausted, create anxiety, or affect your self-esteem. As a result, you may develop more stress, further perpetuating the cycle.
Studies have found that atopic dermatitis can affect the mental health of children and teenagers, as well as adults. If you have atopic dermatitis, it’s suggested that your doctor check in on your mental health needs as part of your routine medical care.
Getting the treatment you need
In addition to managing your symptoms, work with your doctor to take a holistic approach to your atopic dermatitis treatment. This may include:
- Maintaining a good skin care routine: It’s important to keep your skin moisturized and use any topical, oral, or injectable medications for eczema as directed.
- Reducing your stress levels: Make time to relax and regenerate. Get plenty of sleep. Take a walk outside or read a book. Practice meditation or deep breathing exercises. Find a hobby you enjoy, such as writing or baking.
- Incorporating healthy lifestyle changes: Exercise is a great way to deal with troubling emotions. Aim for 30 minutes on most days. Make healthy food choices and learn to avoid foods that seem to worsen your eczema symptoms.
- Finding a therapist: Seek out the care of a mental health professional as needed. You may even be able to find a therapist who specializes in chronic conditions like eczema.
- Joining a support group: Connecting with others going through a similar experience can be helpful. Your doctor may be able to provide you with a list of local in-person groups, or you can find online support through groups like the National Eczema Association.
The bottom line? If you’re struggling with negative emotions, don’t ignore them. Advanced atopic eczema can affect many facets of your life, but there are many resources available to help you along the way.