By Dr. Baker (ND)
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that often stems from underlying biological imbalances. While eczema is commonly associated with dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, research suggests it may be linked to deficiencies, environmental triggers, and immune system activity. Our clinic offers comprehensive testing panels to identify these hidden factors and create a personalized plan for each case.
What Vitamin Deficiencies Cause Eczema?
The role of nutrients in managing eczema is widely recognized. Research from 2023 indicated that low levels of vitamin D not only increase eczema risk but are also associated with more severe symptoms. This finding is backed by further studies from 2022 and 2023, which observed that vitamin D supplements reduced eczema severity, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels. These insights suggest that balancing nutrients through diet and supplementation may alleviate eczema symptoms and improve skin resilience. We can perform a full panel to test your levels of several nutrients that have been found to be related to eczema.
Hormonal and Immune Factors Related to Eczema
Hormones and immune activity also contribute to eczema risk. An important 2022 study established a link between hypothyroidism and eczema, finding that low thyroid hormone levels can lead to dry skin, which exacerbates eczema symptoms. Our clinic can test for hormones that can affect the health of the skin and may be related to eczema.
Environmental Triggers of Eczema
Environmental factors play a significant role in eczema flare-ups. A 2006 study from Ireland identified common eczema triggers, including hot or damp weather and excessive sweating. Exposure to harsh chemicals, such as solvents and detergents, can also exacerbate symptoms. There are many other environmental factors, some of which are not well known. Our clinic can help determine if there are any factors in your environment affecting your skin health.
Autoimmune and Metabolic Factors
Autoimmune activity has also been closely studied in relation to eczema. According to a 2021 study, individuals with eczema are more likely to develop autoimmune conditions, which may exacerbate the severity and recurrence of eczema symptoms. In addition, metabolic health may influence eczema. A 2020 study on lipid levels found that low levels of one type of cholesterol was associated with worse eczema outcomes, emphasizing the skin’s dependence on lipids like cholesterol, fatty acids, and triglycerides for barrier function.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Eczema Management
Several lifestyle adjustments may reduce eczema severity and frequency. Maintaining a cool bedroom temperature (between 15.5-19°C) helps prevent overheating, which can aggravate eczema. Wearing cotton gloves under vinyl or latex gloves during activities such as dishwashing is advised to avoid direct contact with harsh substances. Regular, gentle exercise can improve circulation and stress levels, which may positively impact skin health. Furthermore, stress reduction techniques like mindfulness and relaxation exercises are recommended, as stress is a known trigger for eczema flare-ups.
Natural Therapies for Eczema
Depending on the results of blood panels and skin evaluations, targeted therapies may be recommended. The natural therapies we consider will depend on which nutrient deficiencies or immune imbalances are identified. For instance, if vitamin D or zinc deficiency is detected, supplementation may offer symptom relief. Immune-modulating treatments are sometimes integrated into the care plan to manage autoimmune activity and inflammation naturally.
Risk Factors and Early Indicators
Several risk factors are associated with the onset and recurrence of eczema. For instance, individuals with a history of asthma, eczema, or allergic rhinitis are at a higher risk of developing atopic dermatitis. Research also highlights that anemia, as indicated by a 2016 study, is more common in those with eczema, suggesting a need for regular screening. Additionally, studies suggest that family history, immune health, and hormonal imbalances all contribute to eczema’s prevalence and severity. Our clinic can help identify these indicators through personalized testing.
Conclusion
Identifying and addressing the root causes of eczema is essential for effective, long-term management. At our clinic, we perform comprehensive blood testing to uncover the underlying factors driving eczema, from nutrient deficiencies and immune sensitivities to environmental triggers. This data-driven approach allows us to create personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, aiming to improve skin health and reduce flare-ups naturally.
This post provides a brief overview of eczema’s potential causes and contributing factors. There are many more factors we consider in our treatment plans. For a more detailed analysis and individualized recommendations, we recommend consulting with Dr. Baker (ND).
