Eczema and constipation may seem like two completely different health concerns—one affects the skin while the other affects digestion. But growing research suggests that the skin and digestive system may communicate through what is known as the gut-skin axis.
If you experience eczema along with constipation, you may wonder whether the two conditions are connected. Research has found an association between constipation and eczema, although scientists are still working to understand exactly why this relationship occurs.
In this article, we explain the possible connection between eczema and constipation, the role of gut health, common symptoms, and healthy habits that may support both digestive and skin health.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a group of inflammatory skin conditions that can cause:
- Dry or sensitive skin
- Itching
- Red, irritated patches
- Scaling or rough skin
- Skin that may become cracked or uncomfortable
Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. It is associated with inflammation and changes in the skin barrier, which normally helps protect the body from irritants and allergens.
Eczema can have different triggers for different people, including environmental factors, irritants, allergies, stress, climate, and changes in the skin barrier.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation is a common digestive problem in which bowel movements become difficult, infrequent, or harder than usual.
Common symptoms can include:
- Passing stools less frequently
- Hard or dry stools
- Difficulty passing stool
- A feeling that the bowel has not completely emptied
- Abdominal discomfort or bloating
Constipation can have many causes, including insufficient dietary fibre, inadequate fluid intake, changes in routine, low physical activity, certain medications, and some medical conditions.
Can Constipation and Eczema Be Connected?
Research suggests there may be an association between constipation and eczema, but this does not mean that constipation directly causes eczema.
Some observational studies have found that people with constipation are more likely to have eczema than people without constipation. For example, a large 2021 study involving more than 170,000 people in Taiwan found an association between constipation and eczema. Similar findings were reported in an earlier UK study. Research in young children has also reported an association between constipation and a higher risk of eczema during early childhood.
However, an association does not prove that one condition causes the other. More research is needed to understand the biological mechanisms involved.
Understanding the Gut-Skin Axis
The gut-skin axis describes the two-way communication between the digestive system and the skin.
Both the gut and skin act as important protective barriers. They interact with the immune system and contain complex communities of microorganisms known as the microbiome.
Changes affecting gut health may influence immune and inflammatory processes, while inflammatory conditions affecting the skin may also be associated with changes elsewhere in the body. Researchers are continuing to investigate how these interactions may relate to eczema and digestive symptoms.
This is why looking after overall digestive health can be an important part of a healthy lifestyle for people living with eczema.
Does Constipation Cause Eczema?
There is currently not enough evidence to say that constipation directly causes eczema.
Eczema is a complex inflammatory condition with multiple possible contributing factors, including genetics, immune-system activity, skin-barrier function, and environmental triggers.
Constipation may occur alongside eczema in some people, potentially reflecting shared inflammatory, immune, dietary, or microbiome-related factors. But the relationship is not yet fully understood.
It is therefore better to think of eczema and constipation as potentially connected health concerns rather than assuming that one directly causes the other.
How Can You Support Gut and Skin Health?
If you have both eczema and constipation, simple healthy habits may support your overall wellbeing.
1. Eat Enough Fibre
Fibre from vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses, beans, and other plant foods can support normal bowel function.
Increase fibre gradually if your current diet is low in fibre, as a sudden increase may cause bloating or discomfort.
2. Stay Hydrated
Adequate fluid intake supports normal digestive function. Your individual fluid requirements can vary depending on age, activity, climate, and health.
3. Choose a Balanced Diet
Rather than unnecessarily removing large groups of foods, focus on a varied diet containing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses, healthy sources of protein, and other nutrient-rich foods.
There is currently insufficient evidence to recommend blanket elimination diets for everyone with eczema. If you suspect that a particular food triggers your symptoms, discuss it with a qualified healthcare professional rather than eliminating foods without guidance.
4. Pay Attention to Your Personal Triggers
Eczema triggers vary from person to person. Common triggers may include certain skincare products, soaps, fragrances, weather changes, sweating, stress, or allergens.
Keeping a simple symptom diary may help you and your healthcare professional identify patterns.
5. Follow a Gentle Skin-Care Routine
People with eczema often benefit from gentle skincare that supports the skin barrier. Avoiding harsh cleansers and regularly using a suitable moisturiser can help reduce dryness and irritation.
6. Maintain Regular Physical Activity
Age-appropriate physical activity can support general health and healthy digestive function. If sweating tends to trigger your eczema, showering gently after exercise and using suitable skincare may help.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Occasional constipation is common, but persistent or recurring constipation should not simply be ignored.
Speak with a healthcare professional if constipation continues, repeatedly returns, or is affecting your daily life.
Likewise, seek medical advice if your eczema is persistent, worsening, interfering with sleep, becoming painful, or showing signs of infection.
A healthcare professional can assess your symptoms, consider possible triggers, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Eczema and Constipation: Frequently Asked Questions
Can eczema cause constipation?
There is no clear evidence that eczema directly causes constipation. Research has identified an association between the two conditions, but the exact relationship remains uncertain.
Is gut health related to eczema?
Research suggests that the gut and skin communicate through the gut-skin axis. The gut microbiome, immune system, inflammation, and skin-barrier function are areas of ongoing research.
Can improving constipation cure eczema?
No. Improving bowel habits should not be considered a cure for eczema. Eczema has multiple contributing factors and usually requires an individualized approach to management.
Should I avoid certain foods if I have eczema and constipation?
Not automatically. Food sensitivities or allergies can affect some people, but unnecessarily eliminating foods can create nutritional problems. If you suspect a food-related trigger, speak with a healthcare professional before making major dietary changes.
Can probiotics help with eczema and constipation?
Probiotics are being studied for their potential effects on gut and immune health, but their benefits can vary depending on the condition and the specific probiotic strain. They should not be considered a guaranteed treatment for eczema or constipation.