{"id":105229,"date":"2024-10-04T13:06:10","date_gmt":"2024-10-04T13:06:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.stress.org\/?post_type=news&p=105229"},"modified":"2024-10-04T13:06:10","modified_gmt":"2024-10-04T13:06:10","slug":"stress-rash-what-it-looks-like-symptoms-treatment","status":"publish","type":"news","link":"https:\/\/www.stress.org\/news\/stress-rash-what-it-looks-like-symptoms-treatment\/","title":{"rendered":"Stress Rash: What It Looks Like, Symptoms & Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"
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We know that stress can take a toll on the body, but many may not realize it can produce a rash.<\/p>\n

\u201cStress can increase the level of the hormone cortisol, increasing inflammation in your body, which can lead to hives, acne, eczema, and hair loss, among other symptoms,” dermatologist\u00a0Dr. Elizabeth Farhat<\/a>\u00a0said in a\u00a0recent article<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Typically, hives are caused by an allergic reaction but can actually be triggered by stress. According to\u00a0Scripps<\/a>, you are more likely to develop a stress rash if you have experienced asthma, eczema, rosacea or allergies.<\/p>\n

Here is everything you need to know to manage a stress rash.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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1. What does stress rash look like?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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According to the\u00a0Cleveland Clinic<\/a>, hives can appear on your face, hands and neck. The hives will look like raised bumps that are reddish on lighter-colored skin. They can look like tiny pinpoints or welts and may develop into raised red clusters. Hives can change size and shape. When you press on the bumps, the skin will turn lighter in the center. When you have a stress rash on your face, you may also experience painful swelling of your lips, eyes and the inside of your throat. The rash can burn, itch and cause pain.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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2. Where does a stress rash appear?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Hives can appear anywhere on the body. However, according to\u00a0Scripps<\/a>, when a stress rash causes hives, they are more likely to appear on the face, neck, chest or arms. The hives can be as small as a pinpoint or merge into an area the size of a dinner plate. They can come and go within a few days, but can then return. The rash can wax and wane for up to six weeks or even years.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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3. How to get rid of a stress rash<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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If you have swelling of the mouth or throat, this is considered a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Mayo Clinic<\/a>\u00a0recommends using non-drowsy anti-itch medications (antihistamines). They will calm the itching and reduce the swelling associated with the rash. They are available over the counter and by prescription.<\/p>\n

Mount Sinai<\/a>\u00a0suggests adding an over-the-counter antacid along with a histamine H2 receptor blocker (H2 blocker). The\u00a0American Institute of Stress<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0recommends trying milk compresses. The fat in whole milk can soothe skin; skim milk won\u2019t work here. Cold compresses may also provide relief from itching and swelling. Topical steroids, like hydrocortisone, can also help.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Mayo Clinic<\/a>\u00a0also recommends taking a cool bath. Adding baking soda and oatmeal to the tub can relieve the itching associated with hives. Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the rash further.<\/p>\n

You should seek medical assistance:<\/p>\n