Tuesday, April 7, 2009
The Itch That Won't Go Away
So, for a few months I've had this itch. It's a full body itch and will just happen periodically, sometimes I even break out into hives! And of course I have not seen the doctor, because I don't want to pay for it.
I've been researching it quite a bit and I believe it to be stress related. I found this on healthy-skincare.com:
"The effect of stress or anxiety on the skin is often overlooked. A stress rash, which appears as hives or welts on the skin, is a negative product of stress. Many people break out into a rash when under even minor amounts of it. Often the result is the appearance of itchy hives or welts on the stomach, back, arms, and face. Why this occurs is a difficult question to answer. Some experts suspect that the problem is the effect that anxiety has on the immune system. Factors acting on the immune system cause the release of histamine and this results in vessel dilatation, itching, hives, or a stress rash. However, in many cases the exact cause and explanation for the stress rash cannot be specified."
Their solution is a stress management plan. This is much easier said than done.
Anyway, I thought I'd share this, because I found it to be fascinating that my stress has managed to manifest itself as a physiological problem. I usually don't get outwardly stressed, so my body has internalized it and made me itchy.
Thank you, Body. You won't be getting a Christmas present this year!
Have this problem? Here's the info I found most useful.
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Christina - xristya@rock.com - First of all, I dropped by from Book Room Reviews. Secondly, I too have had some stress-related hive-like outbreaks (which I could fortunately cover with long sleeves) in my ADULT lifetime, which amazes me (although I did have eczema as an infant and a bit before I went to kindergarten). I commiserate with you in saying, Thanks a lot, Body!
ReplyDeleteHi! I'm visiting from Book Room Reviews.
ReplyDeleteI have one hive which has come and gone my entire life but I can't attribute its appearance to anything in particular. It's bizarre.
Hi "Mom"! I use to have this problem for awhile, too. I'd suddenly just get a welt somewhere, very bizarre. I guess stress could have been the cause. It's been quite awhile since I've had it happen. Hope it goes away for you! (I got here from Book Room Reviews!)
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