Connection between constipation and eczema: An investigation
A growing body of research suggests a connection between eczema and constipation, two conditions that may share overlapping inflammatory and immune pathways.
A study on over 170,000 people from Taiwan found a link between constipation and eczema, while another study on over 67,000 infants in Japan found that 1-year-old children with constipation had a higher risk of eczema until they were 3 years old.
This gut-skin axis means that the intestinal permeability ("leaky gut") or gut inflammation can exacerbate skin inflammation seen in eczema. Both conditions share increased mast cells that mediate inflammation.
Eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder, is characterised by skin barrier dysfunction and immune system overactivation. Meanwhile, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which often includes constipation, involves gut inflammation, altered microbiome, and immune responses.
Managing both conditions together effectively requires a combined approach. This includes:
- Holistic Gut-Skin Health Support: Dietary modifications, probiotics and prebiotics, adequate hydration, and fiber intake can help reduce gut inflammation, restore barrier function, and improve bowel regularity.
- Treatment of Eczema: Use of moisturizers and topical anti-inflammatory agents can repair the skin barrier and control the immune response. Avoiding known skin irritants and allergens is also crucial.
- Management of Constipation: Addressing underlying gut inflammation through dietary fiber, adequate fluids, and possibly medications can help improve symptoms. Identifying and managing stress and psychological factors is also important.
- Nutritional Support: A balanced intake of vitamins and minerals can support immune health. Deficiencies may worsen eczema and gut symptoms.
- Medical Guidance: Consulting health professionals, including dermatologists and gastroenterologists, can help provide a coordinated approach for comprehensive symptom control.
Inflammation in eczema can cause or be due to other conditions that affect different organs in the body, including the digestive tract. When something disrupts the gut-skin axis, it can compromise the health of both systems, leading to digestive issues like constipation.
Researchers do not yet understand the cause of eczema, but believe factors such as genes, environment, and the immune system play a role. Infants with less diverse gut microflora may be more likely to develop eczema.
People with constipation are more than twice as likely to have eczema than those without constipation, according to multiple studies. A significant association between constipation and depression was also highlighted in a study.
Research continues to uncover the intricate connections between eczema and constipation, shedding light on potential new treatment strategies and management approaches for both conditions.
[1] Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology [2] British Journal of Dermatology [3] Journal of Investigative Dermatology [4] Clinical and Experimental Dermatology [5] American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
