Eczema Linked to Other Health Problems

Steven Reinberg HealthDay Reporter Posted: Friday, January 23, 2015, 9:00 AM

FRIDAY, Jan. 23, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- Adults with eczema -- a chronic, itchy skin disease that often starts in childhood -- may also have an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, according to a new study.

This increased risk may be the result of bad lifestyle habits or the disease itself.

"Eczema is not just skin deep," said lead researcher Dr. Jonathan Silverberg, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. "It impacts all aspects of patients' lives and may worsen their heart-health," he said.

The researchers found that people with eczema smoke and drink more, are more likely to be obese and are less likely to exercise than adults who don't have the disease.

The findings also suggest that eczema itself may increase the risk for heart disease and stroke, possibly from the effects of chronic inflammation, he said.

"It was intriguing that eczema was associated with these disorders even after controlling for smoking, alcohol consumption and physical activity," Silverberg added.

It's important to note, however, that this study only found an association between eczema and a higher risk of other health conditions. The study wasn't designed to tease out whether or not having eczema can actually cause other health problems.

Having eczema may take a psychological toll, too, Silverberg pointed out. Since eczema often starts in early childhood, it can affect self-esteem and identity, he said. And those factors may influence lifestyle habits.

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Eczema Linked to Other Health Problems