Essentially, your body is having an allergic reaction to stress.
This article discusses stress rash, including what it looks like, and what causes it.
It also discusses how to manage symptoms and ways to prevent recurrent outbreaks.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Raimo Suhonendermnetnz.org2023.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from DermNet and Raimo Suhonendermnetnz.org2023.
What Does a Stress Rash Look Like?
A stress rash usually presents as hives or welts on the skin.
Hives are often raised off the skin (swollen) and can vary in color.
Stress rashes are typically very itchy.
You might also notice a burning or tingling sensation in the affected area.
It’s estimated that up to 20% of people will experience hives at some point during their lives.
What Causes a Stress Rash?
This can cause hives and other skin issues such as acne.
This causes an allergic reaction.
Histamine can also be released in response to stress.
For example:
Avoid Heat
Heat can make you sweat, which can make your symptoms worse.
Wear Loose Clothing
Wear loose clothing made of cotton to avoid irritating the rash.
Tight clothing can create friction between the fabric and your skin, which could make your symptoms worse.
Identify and Avoid Triggers
Your triggers could be internal or external.
Stress can come from emotional experiences or high-pressure situations, but it can also come from the environment.
Extreme temperatures, noise, crowds, and poor air quality are examples of environmental stress.
Recognizing these triggers and taking steps to avoid them or manage them can help prevent stress-related symptoms.
This symptom can be due to many different conditions.
You’ll likely have other physicalsymptoms of stressat the same time.
These can include:
Summary
A skin rash can be because of stress.
It typically appears as hives or bumps on the face, chest, neck, and arms.
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