Stress Induced Hives

and Stress Rash

Stress induced hives or a stress rash are itchy and are characterised by redness or pale swellings of the skin which vary in shape and size. Allergens that might provoke hives from occurring could be medications, food additives, certain foods, insect bites and stings, infections, hot/cold temperature changes, etc. Since hives are triggered by allergens they are often treated with antihistamines, although some physicians treat hives with relaxation techniques.

The body’s natural reaction to stress may cause stress induced hives or a stress rash. When a person experiences stress for a prolonged period of time their immune system may not be able to defend the body from illness and disease.

Chronic stress results in the body having a reduce immune response which also makes in unable to cope with allergens. As everyone handles stressors differently, stress of all kinds can lead to the development of allergic conditions such as stress induced hives or a stress rash.

When the immune system is not functioning properly it is vulnerable and could trigger the onset of hives.

Stress affects the immune system. The body pumps blood to major muscles, increasing our heart rate and prepares the body for ‘fight or flight’. The immune system functioning is affected during these moment of stressful situations.

There is a strong link between stress and skin problems. Specialists in skin treatments often prescribe relaxation exercises such as meditation and yoga for someone with skin problems. They believe there is a link between emotional upsets or traumatic experiences and skin ailments. It is thought that strong emotion which are not dealt with, may release through the skin.

Some studies have discovered that a response to stress may cause redness, swelling and sensitivity. During stressful situations the skin barrier is seen to break down making it more susceptible to irritants and allergens. If you are unable to cope with stress you could develop stress induced hives or a stress rash.

Some psychodermatologists start treating a skin problem such as acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis or hives with relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises. The aim is to reduce stress which in turn increases immune system functioning and skin problems healing. Doctors have also recommended massage, hypnosis, acupuncture and counselling as techniques to help relieve stress. If relaxation techniques do not rid the person of skin problems and feelings unhappiness the physician may prescribe anti-depressants.

Please see your physician if you have skin problems that concern you.

**********************************************************

Briner, W. (2007). Action plan for allergies: Your guide to managing exercise and medication to relieve symptoms. Human Kinetics, Illinois.

Fireman, P. (2006). Atlas of allergies and clinical immunology. Third Edition, Mosby, Inc. Illinois.

Goldfarb, S. (2000). Allergy Relief. Avery, New York.

Lockey, R. F., Bukantz, S. C. & Bousquet, J. (2004). Allergens and Allergen Immunotherapy, Third Edition, Marcel Dekker, Inc, Switzerland.

Reistad-Long S. (2006). Stress-out skin. Allure, New York, Nov. p.117.

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology

********************************************************

Sign-up for the Stress-In-Focus newsletter and receive regular information on the affects of stress and how to relieve your stress.