A stress rash usually looks like red, itchy bumps, raised welts or hives that can appear suddenly during periods of stress or anxiety. It may also cause skin swelling, warmth or irritation, and symptoms can worsen in people with asthma, rhinitis, atopic dermatitis or psoriasis.
A stress rash happens when emotional stress triggers changes in the immune system that can lead to inflammation in the skin. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, stress hormones and immune system hypersensitivity may play a role in these skin reactions.
A stress rash diagnosis is usually confirmed by an allergist or dermatologist after assessing the symptoms and ruling out other causes, such as allergies. Treatment may include antihistamines for itching and redness, corticosteroids for more intense symptoms, and therapy or anxiety treatment for long-term control.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of a stress rash include:
- Itchiness
- Skin redness
- Raised, red rashes or hives
- Skin swelling
- Shortness of breath
- Insomnia
Skin symptoms are most common, as the skin contains terminal nerve endings that are directly linked to feelings of stress and anxiety. People with other health conditions, like asthma, rhinitis, atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, may present with worsening of those related symptoms, and worse overall skin lesions when experiencing high-stress situations.
Also recommended: Psoriasis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment tuasaude.com/en/psoriasisIt is important to remember that symptoms of a stress rash will range from person to person, depending on age, the intensity of emotions, coping mechanisms and genetics.
Possible causes
The causes of stress rashes are not fully understood, although it is known that feelings of stress and anxiety trigger several processes in the body. These emotions lead to the release of substances called catecholamines, which cause an inflammatory response in the skin.
Stress and anxiety can activate the defense cells of the body, leading to immune system hypersensitivity. This can present with skin-related symptoms and with worsening of other, pre-existing autoimmune diseases.
The release of cortisol and its inflammatory process during stressful situations can also affect the skin. Many patients have a genetic predisposition for these types of reactions.
Confirming a diagnosis
A stress rash diagnosis is confirmed by an allergist or dermatologist based on the assessment of the signs and symptoms presented by the patient. There is no test that confirms a stress allergy, however the doctor may order allergy tests to rule out other possible causes.
Treatment options
Treatment for a stress rash should be oriented by an allergy specialist or dermatologist. It often involves the use of antihistamines to relieve itching and redness. Stress rashes that last for over 2 weeks or present with very intense, sudden symptoms may require oral or topical corticosteroids.
Treatment outcomes can also be enhanced with medications that decrease stress and anxiety, as well as psychotherapy. Read more about anxiety medications that your doctor may consider prescribing.