TORONTO, Feb 10, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Canadian researchers have added
worrying about the troubled economy to the list of things that can trigger
flare-ups of the chronic skin condition eczema.
Emotional factors -- including stress -- were reported to be the most common
cause of flare-ups in three out of four eczema sufferers, a Canadian survey
indicates.
The Eczema Awareness, Support and Education Program conducted a national online
survey of eczema sufferers, which was developed in consultation with Dr. Marlene
Dytoc, an Edmonton dermatologist.
The survey results reveal that for half the respondents, flare-ups occurred most
frequently during the winter. Chilly, dry air and indoor heating can dehydrate
the skin and cause eczema flare-ups, Dytoc said.
Eczema was reported to have far-reaching effects on sufferers' lives, with 36
percent of adults reporting that they attempt to conceal their eczema. In
addition, 29 percent reported problems concentrating at work or school, 28
percent were unable to sleep at night and 27 reported difficulty playing certain
sports.
Difficulty sleeping at night was the primary complaint of 43 percent of the
children.
No margin of error of the survey was given.
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