Kinga Krzeminska/Moment RF/Getty Images
While stress is a natural reaction, excessive stress can lead to flare-ups of itchy red hives on various parts of the body, such as the hands, neck, chest, or arms. Sign up for CNN’s Stress, But Less newsletter to receive valuable information and inspiration on reducing stress and effectively managing it. Our comprehensive six-part mindfulness guide will guide you on how to harness stress while also relieving it. CNN — Having too much stress is detrimental to your overall well-being. In addition to feeling burnt out, it can result in sleep disturbances, a weakened immune system, elevated blood pressure levels, and decreased cognitive function. Interestingly, stress can also impact your skin. While stress is a natural response to perceived threats and can be beneficial to some extent, prolonged periods of excessive stress can cause an imbalance in cortisol levels, a stress hormone. This imbalance can trigger a hyperactive immune system and make the skin more sensitive, leading to stress-induced rashes and hives. These rashes often manifest as persistent, raised itchy bumps known as hives. People with pre-existing skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis may experience severe outbreaks as a result of stress. It’s important to be proactive in preventing recurring stress rashes and to seek treatment if you already have them. Dr. Whitney High, a professor and director of dermatopathology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, explains that the term “stress rash” is often used to refer to hives or urticaria. Cholinergic urticaria, a rash triggered by emotional stress or consuming hot and spicy foods, is a common example. Stress hives can also occur due to elevated body temperatures caused by stress. Dr. Lauren Ploch, a board-certified dermatologist, adds that stress can increase histamine production in the body, leading to hives or welts. If you experience hives, it’s advisable to consult a doctor to rule out other possible causes such as changes in detergent, shampoo, diet, or other factors. Determining whether stress is the underlying cause is crucial. Dr. High emphasizes that while dermatologists recognize the connection between stress and hives, it is not their primary explanation. Only when no other cause can be identified should stress be considered as a potential factor. Prolonged stress can even lead to a condition called neurodermatitis, characterized by incessant scratching and increasing itchiness. Stress rashes typically appear as puffy red bumps that can emerge all over the body, particularly on the face, neck, chest, or arms. They can vary in size, ranging from small dots to large welts, and may cluster together. The hives come on suddenly and can last for a day or several weeks, constantly shifting and forming new lesions until either they resolve or are treated. Apart from itchiness, stress rashes may also cause a burning sensation and be accompanied by swollen eyelids or lips. Prevention is the best approach to managing a stress rash, but there’s no need to panic if your skin starts to itch after a stressful day at work. Approximately 20% of people will experience hives at some point in their lives. In most cases, oral antihistamines like Benadryl and Zyrtec can effectively treat hives. They may even disappear on their own once the triggering factor is removed. For stress-induced rashes, stress-reducing techniques such as relaxation, meditation, and cognitive therapies can be beneficial. When a rash first appears, taking a cold shower or plunge can help alleviate swelling and itching. It’s also advised to avoid hot foods, alcohol, hot tubs, and saunas, as they can further irritate the rash. It’s important to resist the urge to scratch, as it can worsen the itchiness and potentially spread harmful bacteria. While stress is a natural response, when it starts to affect your physical health, it’s time to make changes to your daily routine. The World Health Organization recommends various strategies for mitigating stress, including maintaining strong connections with loved ones and adhering to a daily schedule that includes time for meals, exercise, and leisure activities. Dr. Ploch suggests that a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, and regular exercise are key to preventing long-term stress. Additionally, immediate stress reduction techniques such as meditation and deep breathing exercises can provide relief.
Banish Stress Rash: Effective Remedies for Managing Hives Caused by Stress
