The symptoms that occur with neurodermatitis are not only unpleasant, but can also put a heavy strain on the everyday life of those affected. It is all the more important to avoid certain behaviors that trigger symptoms such as skin rashes and itching. We explain which 4 factors can aggravate neurodermatitis.
Neurodermatitis (atopic eczema) is a chronic inflammation of the skin that occurs in episodes. Typical symptoms of the disease are skin rashes (eczema), dry skin and severe itching. Since the itching in particular can disturb sleep and concentration, the quality of life of those affected is sometimes severely restricted. The exact causes of neurodermatitis have not yet been fully clarified. But what is clear is that it is not just a skin disease and several factors contribute to the disease and the triggering of flare-ups. A combination of hereditary predispositions, a disturbed barrier function of the skin, hypersensitivity of the immune system and various environmental factors seem to promote neurodermatitis.
Many people with neurodermatitis also have an allergy, e.g. B. against plant pollen, animal hair or house dust mites. These substances are also known as allergens and can trigger a flare-up in those affected. Every person with neurodermatitis has different triggers. In particular, the following triggers increasingly lead to worsened neurodermatitis in many of those affected:
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4 potential factors that can make eczema worse
1. Certain foods
Many people do not know that diet can have an impact on the course of neurodermatitis – some foods are suspected of triggering or aggravating flare-ups. However, this is not the case for everyone affected, since the triggers are individual for each person with neurodermatitis. Therefore there is no general “neurodermatitis diet”. Foods that are often not tolerated by neurodermatitis include, for example, citrus fruits, nuts, dairy products, wheat, alcohol and coffee. However, foods only have to be avoided if there is an intolerance. In general, a healthy, nutritious diet can have a positive effect on the disease. There are also foods which have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body and can help with neurodermatitis. These include, for example, spices such as turmeric and omega-3 fatty acids in vegetable oils.
2. Too much stress
Atopic dermatitis can also affect psychological well-being. Although the development of the skin disease is not triggered solely by mental stress, persistent stress , fears and worries can both trigger flare-ups of neurodermatitis and aggravate existing symptoms. A vicious circle can quickly develop, because the skin rashes and itching in turn affect our well-being and can worsen psychological problems. So try to reduce stress as much as possible – this can be done with the help of yoga and relaxation exercises, for example.
3. Scented toiletries
Due to the disturbed barrier function of the skin, fragrances can penetrate the skin more easily, irritate it and thus promote skin rashes and itching. It can therefore help to ensure that creams, shower gels and the like are free of these ingredients. Incidentally, the same applies to fabric softeners, because these also often contain fragrances and preservatives that can be problematic for people with skin diseases.
4. The wrong clothes
People with neurodermatitis often report that they cannot tolerate materials made of wool, as these promote skin rashes. Especially in the case of acute flare-ups, care should be taken to ensure that the clothing is made of soft fabric, absorbs sweat and is easy to wash. Apart from that, the clothing should not be too tight so that the skin can breathe and is not additionally irritated.
With neurodermatitis to the doctor
If you would like more detailed information on the subject of neurodermatitis, you will find helpful information here and on the Instagram channel for those affected. In the case of neurodermatitis, medical advice should always be sought. On the website of the Professional Association of German Dermatologists (BVDD) you will find specialists in your area who can provide you with the best possible care.
