Kasandra Brabaw

<p>And you probably could have guessed this, but chronic stress isn't <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/g19989015/side-effects-of-stress/" id="8d0d781f-487b-354a-a63b-dbb72820432b">  kind to your body </a> . It can leave you feeling exhausted, cause breakouts, and even make your hair fall out. Plus, women bear more of day to day stress than men, according to Maureen Sayres Van Niel, MD, president of the American Psychiatric Associations Women's Caucus.</p>

<p>Why? "Because they continue to shoulder most of the responsibility for nurturing, whether it be of children or elderly relatives, and they continue to have most of the responsibility for caring for the home as well," she adds. Think about it: When your daily routine is to wake up, get yourself (and possibly several other people) ready, start work, make dinner, clean, and do it all again the next day, you can easily get stressed. </p>

<p>Thats why it's super important to deal with your stress response in the short-term (a.k.a., doing something to relieve it right now) in addition to long-term solutions, like therapy. While its going to be most beneficial to work on the underlying reasons you feel stressed, there are some things you can do to relieve stress ASAP. </p>

<p>"Fast stress relief can have a significant affect on both your body and your brain," says L. <a href="http://drkevinchapman.com/" id="9d38e93f-3053-33a8-a880-f78ce2489180">  Kevin Chapman, Ph.D. </a> According to the psychologist, using quick stress relief methods can decrease your heart rate to normal levels, allow your body to achieve homeostasis (or balance), and teach your brain how to manage your cortisol (the stress hormone that can be helpful for short periods of time to fight stress, but has negative affects on the body if it occurs too often!).</p>

<p>Try one, or all, of these tricks to start feeling calmer, instantly.</p>

<h1> 1. Focus on what you can control. </h1>

<p>"Engaging in present-focused awareness and what is happening right now is effective for managing strong emotions," Dr. Chapman says. He recommends using the meditation app, Headspace to get you in that self-focused mindset. And then go forward in your day with the awareness that you can only control what you do (think: washing your hands or wearing a mask to the grocery store). </p>

<p>If it's quarantine related stress that you're experiencing, trying changing the way you talk about your current situation. Dr. Chapman, for example makes it a point to call social distancing physical distancing in conversation with himself and other. "This perspective represents an important psychological twist," Dr. Chapman says. How you label your stress can seriously impact the way you respond to it. </p>

<h1> 3.   Try this "4-7-8" breathing exercise.  </h1>

<p>Deep breathing is a quick and easy way to deal with in-the-moment stress, says Dr. Van Nieland it can even "change the chemistry of your body and mind."</p>

<p>There are literally tons of breathing techniques to choose from, but her go-to is the "4-7-8" method: Before you begin, let all the air out of your lungs and then take a breath, inhaling for the count of four, she says. Its best to count 'one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two,' to get the full effect." Once you've inhaled, sit still and hold your breath for a count of seven, she says, then, slowly exhale to a count of eight. Do the exercise four times. </p>

<h1>  4. Snuggle your face in your dog's fur.   </h1>

<p>Or say a simple prayer to yourself, or immediately lace up your shoes for a quick walk or run. The point: Do something that makes you feel relaxed, says Dr. Van Niel. It's also important to remember that everyone is different, so what counts as a relaxing activity for you, might not feel quite so relaxing for someone else.</p>

<p>"For some, this is a quick workout, but for others it's a meditation session," says Dr. Van Niel, adding that reading a favorite book might also be an option. Figure out what works to relax you, and have it in your back pocket for particularly stressful days.</p>

<h1>  5. Take an at-home personal day.   </h1>

<p>Actual vacation isn't really an option right now. But prioritizing "you" time is a necessity. "Maintaining a schedule and being intentional about protecting individual time is essential for self care," Dr. Chapman says. Instead of working past six from your living room couch, cut out early on your WFH schedule and do something that brings you joy. Grab some essential oilsface mask Friday is calling. </p>

<h1>  6. Embrace the mess of it all.   </h1>

<p>Translation? Its okay to give yourself a break and take shortcuts when you caneven with something as simple as chopping your own veggies. Go ahead and buy your veggies already chopped (seriouslyit saves so much time). Or do something similarly time-saving, like ordering takeout from a local restaurant. If you don't feel like doing your normal blow dry-then-straighten routine, throw it up in a ponytail and call it a day. You'll feel wayyy less stressed if you embrace the imperfections. </p>

<h1>  7. Watch "Tiger King" tonight instead of the news.  </h1>

<p>Sure, its good to keep up with current events, but theres no question that the news can be stressful. If you find that watching the news is stressing you out, go ahead and take a break from it (that's actual advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Use that time to catch up on your fave guilty-pleasure shows (or, you know, re-watch "Parks and Recreation" for the thousandth time). </p>

<h1>  8. Exercise for at least 20 minutes every day.   </h1>

<p>Exercise is an amazing stress-reliever. It can lower your blood pressure, improve your sleep, and give you more energy, according to the <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/working-out-to-relieve-stress" id="ea087596-b44f-30f7-ad8c-cd3615e6faaa">  American Heart Association </a> .</p>

<p>But you don't need to go all-out in high-intensity training every day to get the benefits: Even a 20-minute walk, run, swim or dance session in the midst of a stressful time can give an immediate effect that can last for several hours, says the   (APA). So hit the gym for 30 minutes to work off your stress, or try a new fitness class. Women's Health has daily IG live workouts with trainers available for all your at-home sweat sessions. </p>

<h1>  9. Do something to make yourself laugh.  </h1>

<p>Think back to the last time you laughedand I mean laughed (not just said "LOL"). You probably felt way less stressed in that moment, right?</p>

<p>There's a reason: People often hold a lot of their stress in their face, and laughs or smiles can help relieve some of that tension, according to the APA. </p>

<p>That's why Dr. Chapman says scheduling time to interact with friends and family on Facetime or playing virtual games on apps like <a href="https://houseparty.com/" id="68966b5a-3862-344f-a1c5-e6232dba187f">  Houseparty </a> , should be a regular event during physical distancing. Talking to and laughing with family friends will get rid of those not-so-positive thoughts that can come with feeling isolated.</p>

<p>Or sew, or paintliterally any craft that interests you. The process of creating something can be therapeuticespecially repetitive tasks like knitting, crochet, or cross-stitching. </p>

<p>In one 2016 study in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07421656.2016.1166832?journalCode=uart20" id="12a7b403-ea1d-3eef-aeb1-a46665876b52">  Art Therapy </a> , researchers found that creating art for 45 minutes noticeably lowered the cortisol (a stress hormone) levels in the saliva of 39 people. While it may be frustrating before you get used to your new craftwhether its pottery, candle-making, jewelry-making, or anything elsemaking something will help with stress in the long run.</p>

<h1>  11. Turn on some Ariana Grande.  </h1>

<p>Many people use music as a means of dealing with emotionsthey listen when they're sad, when they're angry, or when they want to get energizedso it makes sense to use music as a way to chill tf out. </p>

<p>While some will claim that certain types of music (songs with slow, relaxing tempos, for example) are better than others for stress-relief, its most important that youre specifically listening to music in order to relax, according to a 2015 study from the journal  . Think about it: If youre turning on the radio because you want to chill out, youre likely paying more attention and really trying to de-stress. </p>

<h1>  12. Get in downward dog position.   </h1>

<p>Thanks to its combination of physical exercise, stretching, meditation, and deep breathing, yoga is incredible for stress relief, says  . Try to make room for a yoga class or two in your week and take the time to really let go of obligations and negative thoughts. </p>

<h1>  13. Stop thinking all those negative thoughts.   </h1>

<p>I knoweasier said than done, but it really can help with your stress levels, according to the <a href="https://www.heart.org/-/media/data-import/downloadables/ls_fit_howmgstress_2015-ucm_300690.pdf" id="c99d86c5-0e4f-3b50-ad88-6c9f4d5d7d87">  AHA </a> . Instead, practice some positive self-talk. That means, instead of saying "I can't do this," say something like, "I will do the best I possibly can."</p>

<h1>  14. Snag 15 minutes to yourself every single day.  </h1>

<p>When youre dealing with coworkers, friends, a partner, and kids all day, every day, it can be helpful for your stress to just take a few minutes to yourself each day. Set aside 15 to 20 minutes of me-time every day, the  <a href="https://www.heart.org/-/media/data-import/downloadables/ls_fit_howmgstress_2015-ucm_300690.pdf" id="c99d86c5-0e4f-3b50-ad88-6c9f4d5d7d87">  AHA </a>  suggests, and do whatever you want. You can simply sit in your car and breathe deeply or listen to music before you go inside for the night or spend that time on your porch with a cup of coffee in the morninganything that helps you relax. </p>

<p>We all know it's good to give. But it can seriously help reframe the way you think about what's stressing you out. "Helping people who are often in situations worse than yours will help you put your problems into perspective," according to the  . "The more you give, the more resilient and happy you feel."</p>

<p>If possible, getting groceries for those who arent capable, sending words of encouragement via text message, or sending a letter to a friend just to say you appreciate them can be extremely effective ways to bring about stress relief, Dr. Chapman says. </p>

<p>Although it's not easy, gratitude is an essential attribute to express during times of uncertainty," he adds. </p>

<h1>  16. Go ahead and leave the party, if you want to.  </h1>

<p>Some people thrive in social situations like virtual happy hours or trivia night over Zoom. Others...not so much. </p>

<p>If you fall in the latter group, one easy way to relieve stress fast is to get out of that uncomfortable situation (and dont beat yourself up for it later). Its okay to prefer small, intimate gatherings with friends, says Dr. Van Niel. And hanging out at a party is not worth stressing yourself out all night. </p>

<h1>  17. Take a bathbut not a bubble bath.   </h1>

<p>Self-care advocates constantly talk up the relaxation benefits of a hot bubble bath, but science tells us that floating in a pool of water can be great for stress relief, as well. </p>

<p>Floatation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) is a specific type of water therapy that involves floating on your back in a pool of water saturated with Epsom salt. In one 2018 study in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796691/" id="52b9da64-8532-349e-a2e0-bb32765a8469">  PLos One </a> , researchers found that floating in an Epsom salt pool for one hour reduced anxiety in people with anxiety and stress disorders.</p>

<p>Feel free to search out a spa near you that has one of these Epsom salt pools, or go ahead and relax in a tub filled DIY-style with water and Epsom salts. </p>

15 Super-Simple Ways To Relieve Your Stress ASAP

Real talk: Stress is inevitable. But its especially common during uncertain times like these. With our normal routines interrupted, you might be in need of some quick stress relief. Maybe youre sharing a small space with your not-so-silent toddlers or feeling overwhelmed about your work from home situation. (Been there, felt that!)

17 Super-Simple Ways To Relieve Stress ASAP

<p>I mean, everyone knows that people <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a27571842/stop-armpit-sweat/" id="6884c012-ffc1-301e-a7a9-e9ec47776a48">  sweat from their armpits </a> , forehead, and sometimes their backs or hands. But being sweaty adjacent to the vagina?! That's less than ideal, lets be honest. Heres the scoop on why your vagina is so sweaty, whether that's there is typical or something to be concerned about, and what you can do to stop sweating between your legs.</p>

<h1>  First of all, getting sweaty in the vagina area is totally normal.   </h1>

<p>It happens to everyone. Thats because we sweat wherever we have sweat glands, says  , a board-certified dermatologist based in North Carolina. And there are sweat glands all over your vulva, which is the external area surrounding the vagina.</p>

<p>Remember: Your vagina is internalthe surrounding area is actually called the vulva. And there are no sweat glands inside your vagina, Dr. Adigun points out. So, its not really true to say that your vagina is sweating, just to be extra clear.</p>

<p>However, there are sweat glands on the parts *around* your vagina. Specifically, sweat glands exist where the hair on your vulva existsthats the labia majora (the big, outer lips), the mons pubis (the hump above your vagina), and the groin (where your legs meet your pelvis). Your groin is not really all that different from your underarm, Dr. Adigun says. </p>

<p>Just like your armpit, your groin is a junction between a limb and your trunk (except instead of your arms, its your legs). Thats why it makes more sense to call perspiration down there crotch sweat, as opposed to vagina sweat. </p>

<p>It's also worth noting that the sweat glands that exist on your vulva are different from most of your sweat glands. The majority of your body is covered in eccrine glands, while the areas of your body that are super hairy, like your scalp, armpits and crotch, have apocrine glands, according to <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sweating-and-body-odor/symptoms-causes/syc-20353895" id="a7dc4797-2150-3d23-ac52-16dd901d3e07">  Mayo Clinic </a> . Apocrine glands produce a thicker sweat than eccrine glands, and it can have an odor when it mixes with bacteria. That's why a sweaty palm won't stink the way a sweaty armpit (or your sweaty underwear) might. Of course, while some odor down there after sweating is normal, if what you're smelling is different or stronger than your natural scent, definitely get it checked out, as it could be a <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19906413/what-your-vaginal-odor-means/" id="7364beeb-2c5e-3bd8-a7ec-133359a786bc">  sign of an infection </a> . If your doctor gives you the all clear and you're still feeling stanky, these <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/g29418180/best-feminine-wipes/" id="8bea59ba-825d-3a57-a56f-6a127b1e206c">  ob-gyn-approved feminine wipes </a> can help you freshen up in a pinch.</p>

<h1> Ok, so crotch sweat is normal. But I feel like I'm sweating SO MUCH around my vaginawhy?  </h1>

<p>If youre sweating while exercising or when youre really hot, thats not unusual, Dr. Adigun notes. So instead of feeling awk when you spot a sweat stain on your <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/g22747030/best-yoga-pants-women/" id="b35aa447-68b0-3d3c-a708-25e40e549503">  yoga pants </a> , consider taking it as a sign of a hardcore workout.</p>

<p>Of course, some people do sweat more than what doctors would consider normal, for various reasons. Certain health conditions, like <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19956435/subtle-diabetes-symptoms/" id="4ec1e57e-f451-357f-af1c-c3ce1b4b69e1">  diabetes </a> , can cause an abnormal amount of sweating, for example. But if you don't have an underlying condition that leads to sweat, and you're experiencing so much crotch sweat that it's interfering with your everyday life, you may have an <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a27571842/stop-armpit-sweat/" id="25e82cef-ae22-30db-a983-8a63e42c61c8">  excessive sweating condition called hyperhidrosis </a> .</p>

<p>While people who have hyperhidrosis most often sweat more than the average person from their head, armpits, hands, and feet, according to the  , they can sometimes have extra-intense sweating in their genital zone. In  , a healthy 17-year-old girl went to her doctors because she frequently sweat through her shorts. She sweat so much that she would wear thick maxi pads every day to try to keep her pants dry. </p>

<p>Thats certainly an abnormal amount of sweat down there. But you dont need to have that much sweat to make an appointment with your dermatologist: Like abnormal sweating on any part of your body, if youre soaking through your clothing when youre not really hot, thats more than normal, Dr. Adigun says. </p>

<p>Its worth making an appointment anytime sweat is making you feel uncomfortable or inhibiting your life in some way. Dr. Adigun sees patients all the time who are concerned about crotch sweat because theyve been embarrassed by sweat stains on their pants one too many times. </p>

<h1>  How can I stop sweating between my legs and keep my groin dry?  </h1>

<p>There are several options you can try to stop a serious sweat issue or simply keep your normal wet spots at bay: </p>

<h1> Talk to your dermatologist about Botox </h1>

<p>Dr. Adigun routinely does Botox injections in the groin area. That may sound terrifying (a needle near your vulva?!), but its generally safe and super effective. While most of us know about Botox for its wrinkle-smoothing ability, the injection is often also used to stop excessive sweating. It suppresses your sweat glands so they dont sweat as much, and it lasts a long time. Usually, youll have to redo Botox injections twice a yearthats six whole months of sweat suppression.</p>

<p>But thats about it for the major interventions, Dr. Adigun says. The other fixes doctors usually use for sweat  and MiraDryare not used on the vulva. Both of these procedures go deep into the tissue beneath your skin with either electrical currents or thermal energy, respectively. Thats totally fine for your underarms or your hands and feet because theres not much else other than sweat glands under those areas. There are too many other structures in other areas that could be damaged by MiraDry, Dr. Adigun notes. No one wants that.</p>

<h1> Try using topical antiperspirants and powders </h1>

<p>Topical antiperspirants, like Certain Dri, aren't the same as deodorants. While deodorants mask the odor of sweat, antiperspirants temporarily plug up your sweat glands so that you physically sweat less. </p>

<p>Dr. Adigun suggests using the roller-ball versions for crotch sweat, which can be easier to use on precise areas like your groin. But it doesnt work for everyone: This is pretty sensitive skin, Dr. Adigun says. So, sometimes [antiperspirants] can be a little bit irritating. Be extra careful to keep the application away from the actual vagina to reduce the risk of infection from a potentially irritating product. </p>

<p>You could also try to soak up the sweat with a talc-free baby powder product like   (applied on the skin of the vulva, not the vaginal opening). This option wont stop your sweat, Dr. Adigun reminds; itll just absorb the moisture. But it absolutely can help if, on a hot day, you worry that your undercarriage will be damper than usual.</p>

<h1> Pick breathable, cotton underwear for everyday use, and moisture-wicking underwear for workouts </h1>

<p>Cotton is the best choice when it comes to everyday wear, says <a href="https://drdweck.com/" id="1804e0d2-b640-36dd-ac81-1ac5c897965b">  Alyssa Dweck </a> , MD, an ob-gyn in Westchester County, New York. Its the most absorbent material and the best for promoting breathability. You can find plenty of ob-gyn-approved cotton options <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/g28626566/breathable-underwear/" id="13d7162f-7699-36b7-a1d7-6c1f4959a5d8">  here </a> .</p>

<p>The exception to the cotton rule? When you're working out. It's fine, and probably even beneficial, to forgo cotton when you're exercising. The best underwear to wear while working out tends to be <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/g19942585/best-underwear-for-workouts/" id="1f6e65b8-cc47-344c-ad6b-c95c6b6cdd36">  any kind made of moisture-wicking materials </a> , as those will feel most comfortable, says Dr. Dweck. But you should be sure to change out of your sweaty clothes as soon as possible post-workout, to avoid any issues with <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19972546/yeast-infection-myths/" id="b9a54803-5c25-36ae-a2ad-89f70475239d">  yeast infections </a> .</p>

<p>It might seem smart to cover your underwear with an absorbent pad if you're dealing with sweat issues, but because pads and pantyliners have a plastic lining that isn't breathable, they could actually cause you to sweat more down there. If you're on your period, opt for a tampon or <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a22064115/best-menstrual-cups/" id="aaecd5bc-8bd8-370e-a311-b7e96d0647e4">  menstrual cup </a> to help your vulva get some air flow.</p>

<h1> Consider changing your public hair </h1>

<p>If you feel like your hair is creating friction down there and trapping heat, trimming, <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19903677/how-to-shave-your-bikini-line/" id="d071fe94-916c-335a-adb4-54b1c5eb6f86">  shaving </a> , or waxing it could be helpful, and might lead to less sweating. Just be careful, since the skin on your vulva is sensitive and prone to <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a29443508/ingrown-hair-vagina/" id="a6de3300-ca25-328b-a0e4-89f16020e8dd">  ingrowns </a> .</p>

<p><strong> The bottom line: </strong>  Theres absolutely nothing wrong with crotch sweat (youre definitely not alone in this!). But if youre sweating so much down there that its interfering with your daily life, you should reach out to a dermatologist. They can help you get the issue under control.</p>

Do you remember the first time you realized that your vagina region gets sweaty? Maybe you <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a22602791/how-to-get-rid-of-sore-muscles/" id="74e769fe-ff6b-3895-a616-f728ac07481e">  worked out extra hard </a> or spent a long day walking around in the heat. Then, when you got to the bathroom, you noticed some seriously, er, sweaty underwear.

Is It Normal To Get Sweaty Around The Vagina Area?

<p>Here are the most common reasons why your skin might be flaring up and taking on a reddish color and what to do about each one, with input from  <strong> , a dermatologist in North Carolina </strong> . Plus, the photos ahead associated with each issue can help you identify and describe your red skin issues to your doc, so that you can get a proper and accurate diagnosis. </p>

<p>If youve had chickenpox, the   virus is already inside your body. If the virus becomes reactivated, it can cause painful, red patches on your skin. In addition to the painful rash, you may experience fluid-filled blisters, fever, headache, sensitivity to light, or fatigue. </p>

<p>Call a doctor immediately if you suspect you might have shingles, as they will need to prescribe you <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/treatment.html" id="cf46db5c-3967-3eb2-aea2-73ec7e40ac64">  antiviral medication </a> to kick the virus and help you heal. In the meantime, if you do receive a shingles diagnosis, over-the-counter pain meds can help with the discomfort. As you might guess, any skin redness associated with the shingles rash will go away when the virus does.</p>

<p>If your red spot looks circular, it could be  . Ringworm is a fungal infection that presents as a red, itchy, circular rash. </p>

<p>With this infection, the itchy ring is typically the only symptom. But if you do see a suspicious red, round rash that doesn't go away, get in touch with your doc because you'll need topical treatment to get rid of it.</p>

<p>is a common skin conditionshoutout to <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a25670459/kim-kardashian-psoriasis-medication/" id="f19c3240-4bad-3535-ace9-1c4e25d73b65">  Kim K for normalizing it </a> that causes skin cells to build up. The extra skin cells form itchy, red patches. In addition to red, patchy skin, you may have joint pain or pitted or thickened nails. While theres no cure for psoriasis, a doctor can help you manage the symptoms.</p>

<p>While its more common to see   on babies, adults sometimes have it, too. It happens when blocked pores trap sweat underneath your skin, causing lots of red bumps. Usually, these bumps show up in skin folds or where your clothing causes friction. Look for heat rash on your neck, shoulders, chest, armpits, elbow creases, and groin. Heat rash typically takes care of itself, but you should consult a doctor if the bumps dont disappear after a few days.</p>

<p>No surprise here: Lots of different bites and stings can cause angry, red bumps. Bites and stings can come from <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/g17238605/spider-bite-pictures/" id="39b47573-f2f0-378d-ac3e-7d22191782fb">  spiders </a> , ants, bees, jellyfish, sea lice, ticks, fleas and many other types of insects and animals. Most of the time, a bite or sting causes a mild reaction that goes away on its own. But, sometimes, <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19997589/dangerous-bug-bites/" id="6110a1c7-5d4f-39c7-a77f-47b1f91a1170">  they can get infected </a> . If the bite or sting gets too swollen or causes an allergic reactionmaking it difficult to breathe or causing dizziness and nauseaget help.</p>

<p>Skin infections can come from bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, which means flare ups can look quite different depending on the cause. Some infections are surface level, while others go deep into the tissue. Depending on the type of infection you have, you could experience rashes, swelling, pain, pus, and/or itching. Some infections will go away on their own or with an over-the-counter cream or lotion while others will need medical treatment, so see your doc to figure out what's going on.</p>

<p>Also known as  , bone infections can cause red skin above where the bone is infected. Sometimes the infection starts in the bone, but it can also travel there via the bloodstream or tissue. If you do have a bone infection, in addition to red skin you can expect fever and pain, and swelling, warmth, and pain in the infected area.</p>

<p>If you have  , youll see not only redness, but also a large lumpusually on your leg. This type of inflammation causes blood clots to clog a vein. Other than redness, youll experience pain, swelling, warmth, and tenderness. If you have a swollen vein, see a doctor right away.</p>

<p>Angiodema is swelling underneath the skin, sometimes connected with hives. Often, swelling from   is around your face or lips. Usually, angiodema clears up on its own, but check with a doctor if the swelling lasts more than a few days.</p>

<p>If youve recently had strep throat, watch out for  <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scarlet-fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20377406" id="8308e9dc-0961-3207-a010-83083b0a0ecf">  scarlet fever </a> ;  it can develop from the same bacteria (though it's most common in children). Look for a red, bumpy rash, strawberry-colored tongue, flushed face, fever, sore throat, and red lines in the folds of skin around the armpits, knees, neck, groin, and elbows. Call a doctor right away if you suspect scarlet fever.</p>

<p> is a specific type of skin infection caused by bacteria. Infected skin is typically very red, swollen, tender, warm and painful to the touch. If the infection is left untreated it can spread throughout your body and quickly become life-threatening. Get to a doctor if you have a red, swollen rash that spreads quickly, accompanied by a fever. </p>

<p>Hours, days, or weeks after taking a new medication, you might find a red, bumpy rash. Any medication, whether over-the-counter or prescription, can cause an allergic reaction like this. Some drug allergies can be serious and make it difficult to breathe. If you have any trouble breathing, call your doctor. Even with mild reactions, its important to see your doctor and figure out a new medication you can take instead.</p>

<p>From DIY projects to cleaning hacks, there are lots of ways you might accidentally get a chemical burn. Usually, its pretty obvious what caused the burn. Whichever body part you spilled chemicals on or submerged in chemicals will become red and painful. If the burn is minor enough, you can treat it by yourself. Mayo Clinic suggests flushing the wound with cool water for at least 10 minutes and bandaging it loosely in a clean cloth. However, if the burn is bigger than three inches or is deep, its best to go to urgent care. </p>

<p>If something weird is going on with your skin, the first question you get is often, Did you switch soaps recently? Soaps, cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, and sometimes even plants can cause a reaction called  <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/beauty/skin/a707054/dermatitis/" id="f5fc377f-8bc0-34a9-aaea-5280e27bd43e">  contact dermatitis </a> , which is essentially a red, itchy rash caused by direct contact with the allergen. See your doctor if the rash is interfering with your sleep, if its painful and widespread, and if it doesnt get better within three weeks. </p>

<p>No big shock here: Burns can cause red skin. Depending on how severe the burn is, you may or may not need medical treatment. First-degree burns are minor and can be treated at home because they only affect the top layer of skin. Second and third-degree burns, however, go deeper and will probably need a doctors attention to avoid infection and scarring. </p>

<p><a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19981448/eczema/" id="688e8732-0825-3a0f-ada3-d4eeadd3bc1b">  Eczema </a> , also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that causes red and itchy bumps. There is no cure for eczema, but a dermatologist can help you manage your symptoms.</p>

<p>Babies have sensitive skin and diapers chafe, especially if theyre wet, leading to a red rash that's super common. The red skin on your babys butt will clear up easily after you dry their skin and apply some over-the-counter ointment. </p>

<p><a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a20163020/rosacea-treatment/" id="1da624ab-f8b8-3000-ae4d-6ad07de12c2b">  Rosacea </a>  is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that mostly causes redness in the face and noticeable blood vessels. Symptoms of rosacea also include: skin sensitivity, flushing, and acne-like pimples. Make an appointment with a dermatologist if flushing or sensitivity becomes intolerable. Your doctor can prescribe treatments for pustules associated with rosacea.</p>

<p>We all know a  <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/g19040435/sunburn-relief/" id="8f587dbb-4587-3c2e-a4de-0624df1fb8d4">  sunburn </a>  can cause red skin immediately, but over time, sun damage can cause red vessels and a ruddy facial complexion more permanently. A dermatologist can perform light-based or laser treatments to help with facial redness. A series of treatments are often needed to get the redness under control. Wearing sunscreen can help prevent further damage.</p>

<p> presents as a bumpy, red rash around the mouth, nose, or eyes. The rash can burn, sting, or be itchy and often occurs after a trigger such as cold weather, use of topical steroids on the face, or new cosmetic products. See a doctor if you have new red bumps or a rash with skin sensitivity after trying a new makeup or face products that persist for two or more weeks.</p>

<p> actually starts as cradle cappatchy and scaly skin on the top of the headin babies. Some of us never grow out of it, Dr. Adigun says. In adults, seborrheic dermatitis presents with redness and greasy-yellow scales on the face. See a doctor if you have uncontrollable dandruff or if you suspect your skin is infected. </p>

<h1> How do I know when I should get medical help for my skin redness?  </h1>

<p>There are so many different reasons you might have red skin, which means it can be serious or it can be no big deal, says Dr. Adigun. What matters is the other symptoms surrounding the redness. As a rule of thumb, if you have a lot of pain, have a fever, expect you have an infection, or have serious swelling that isnt going away, check in with your doctor or a dermatologist. They can help you get the meds you need to calm your skin or offer options for relief from your symptoms. </p>

Maybe you woke up with a mysterious rash. Maybe you spilled something on yourself and now your skin is not happy. Or maybe some other bumpy, itchy, swollen patch of skin has urged you to Google: Why is my skin so red? Whatever the reason, you don't have to search too much further for answers.

23 Photos Of Skin Redness That Can Help You Figure Out Your Skin Issue

<p>Well, according to the promises of so-called hangover pills like  ,  ,  ,  ,  , and  , you can. Hangover pills, powders, and patches all claim to drastically cut back on the icky feelings of a hangover by packing hangover-fixing ingredients like vitamins, electrolytes, caffeine, pain relievers like Aspirin, and more. But do hangover pills really work?</p>

<h1> To dig into this, you first have to understand what a hangover is, and what causes it. </h1>

<p>But thats actually pretty complicated, and even scientists whove dedicated themselves to researching hangovers dont have a clear answer about what causes one (other than drinking too much), according to the  . There simply isn't much research on hangovers available.</p>

<p>A paper in the journal   called hangovers a puzzling phenomenon. Right now, the best scientific answer available regarding what causes a hangover is that many different things combine to cause the symptoms we feel after an alcohol binge, including: dehydration, hormonal alterations, dysregulated cytokine pathways (cytokines help play a role in reducing inflammation, so it's no good when those pathways get messed up), and, in general, the toxic effects of alcohol. </p>

<p>As WH <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a28075331/hangover-cure-drinks/" id="56c97a17-d735-3b60-ab4e-e9edec6acef3">  reported previously </a> , ethanol (a type of alcohol in booze) impacts the body and brain and messes with a lot of your physiological systems. The liver has to process ethanol and its toxic byproduct, acetaldehyde. And as a result, your blood sugar levels are disrupted and your body gets flooded with inflammatory compounds, Stacy Sims, PhD, an exercise physiologist and nutrition researcher and WH advisor, previously told WH.</p>

<p>You also might be eating and sleeping poorly when you drinkleading you to feel crappy in the morning. Or, the mixers used in whatever alcohol you drank can also play a part in how you feel the morning after, according to the aforementioned research paper. That's also one reason why its difficult to actually study hangoversdrinking in a lab by no means mimics playing a drinking game with your friends.</p>

<h1> This lack of research is one reason that no scientifically proven hangover cure exists. </h1>

<p>If we dont know exactly what causes a hangover, theres no foolproof way to develop a cure. Yet, lots of people have anecdotal evidence about things that help. Some people swear by pickle juice, some say to indulge in hair of the dog (aka, another drink in the morning, like a Bloody Mary), and some folks now buy those hangover pills in bulk because they feel like the supplements take some of the edge off. </p>

<p>Some of what helps your hangover may have to do with the placebo phenomenonthat if you believe it's helping, then it just might make a difference for you.</p>

<p>This debate of "does it work or not for hangovers?" also comes up often with hangover drinks, or ones packed with electrolytes (think: Pedialyte or Gatorade). And the same issue comes into play: Unless you know for sure the cause of the hangover, it's kinda tough to know if vitamins, electrolytes, and other ingredients in drinks or supplements would help fix the underlying problem. </p>

<p>For example: If the reason for your hangover really is related to electrolytes being out of balance, then perhaps replacing them could be helpful," Ginger Hultin, RD, a Seattle-based registered dietitian, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and owner of  <a href="http://www.champagnenutrition.com/" id="8069e3c8-93c2-3198-a49b-c57bc470be07">  ChampagneNutrition </a> ,  previously told WH. "It's very hard to know if this is the cause of a hangover unless your doctor is analyzing a blood test."</p>

<h1> But hey, theres lots of power in the placebo effectand theres also still a chance that hangover pills are actually doing something right.  </h1>

<p>According to many of the descriptions on these supplements and patches, hangover pills include many of the same ingredients in a   an IV bag full of vitamins and electrolytes that has been used in hospitals to treat people who come in with alcohol poisoning. </p>

<p>Banana bags typically include: thiamine (also known as vitamin B1), magnesium, folic acid, and some mix of other vitamins. While a banana bag isnt considered a hangover cure, doctors do use it to replace essential electrolytes and vitamins that get lost after a night of heavy drinking and its said to cut back on the head-pounding and nausea. </p>

<p>Following in the banana bags footprint, hangover supplements like Bytox and Morning Recovery use similar ingredients. Bytox includes lots of different B vitamins as well as folic acid, while Morning Recovery has some lesser-known extracts (e.g., green tea or Korean pear extract), but also more legit-sounding ingredients like vitamin B, potassium, and magnesium. </p>

<p>Another example: One of the most popular tablet options, Blowfish, features caffeine and Aspirin, so if you have a headache, there's def a chance those ingredients would help you out. But would it help a nauseous, upset belly? Tough to say.</p>

<p>Overall, youd be hard-pressed to find a doctor or dietitian who would say hangover supplements are a curebut theres also probably no big harm in trying these supplements for yourself. For the most part, doctors will tell you that the only way to get over a hangover is to wait it out and drink lots of water. </p>

<p>But if you want to try anything and everything to feel even a little bit better, go for itas long as you  <strong> check with your doc </strong>  to make sure none of the ingredients in a hangover supplement will interact badly with any other meds you're on. And remember, supplements aren't regulated by the FDAso proceed at your own risk.</p>

<p>Maybe youll be out a few bucks if they dont work, and maybe theyll make you feel 1,000 times better in half the time. The jury is out.</p>

<h1>  The hangover pills, patches, and powders ahead are the ones that people have anecdotally deemed the best hangover pills of 2019. Find your best match.  </h1>

<p><strong> What it is:  </strong> Tablets that dissolve in water and are designed to start helping your hangover in 15 minutes. You pop two in a glass of water, and it tastes lemony. It's the only hangover supplement that is approved by the FDA.</p>

<p><strong> How to use it: </strong>  Take it in the morning when you wake up with a hangover.</p>

<p><strong> Main ingredients:  </strong> Aspirin and caffeine (so it's kind of like just popping an Aspirin with a cup of coffee).</p>

<p><strong> Who it's for:  </strong> Someone with a bad hangover headache. It also might be helpful for anyone who can't stomach coffee in the morning but craves the caffeine kick to help with head pain. If you're someone who doesn't tolerate caffeine well, Blowfish probably isn't for you.</p>

<p><strong> Honest Amazon review:  </strong> "OK, the truth is if you drink a bottle of tequila and try to go to work on 3 hours of sleep, ain't nothing going to help. However, if you are like me and sometimes have too much fun during the week and find yourself getting home at one in the morning feeling great only having to wake up in four hours and face a school full of kids, then you need Blowfish. Look, nothing medically will 'cure' a hangover, but Blowfish will make you feel better. No, you aren't going to suddenly do cartwheels because you miraculously instantly feel better. But you know what, when 30-40 minutes later you are at work and not thinking about how bad you feel that's the moment when you realize, wow, I guess that stuff did it's job. I also work in a bar so I heard about this stuff when it first came out and I've been using it for months. It has a nice smoothing taste which allows me to get it down. I often wouldn't take aspirin in the morning because it alone would make me throw up."</p>

<p><strong> What it is:  </strong> A sticky patch that you put on your body that's packed with vitamins and minerals that get released in order to supposedly help prevent a hangover.</p>

<p><strong> How to use it:  </strong> Stick a patch on (to a hairless part of your body!) at least 45 minutes *before* you start drinking, then leave it on for at least 8 hours post-drinking. Stay hydrated the whole time, too.</p>

<p><strong> Main ingredients:  </strong> Acai berry, vitamin A, a cocktail of various B vitamins (B12, folic acid, etc.), green tea extract. The thinking is that alcohol is a diuretic that depletes nutrients and vitamins from your bod, so this patch in theory would help you avoid that depletion. Oh, and green tea extract is, well, caffeine.</p>

<p><strong> Who it's for:  </strong> Because the ingredients in Bytox are natural, anyone should be okay to try these, for the most part. But be careful if you have sensitive skin, as the adhesive on these patches may be irritating. And if you have a sensitive nose, apparently these have a bit of an odd scent.</p>

<p><strong> Honest Amazon review:  </strong> "Used it 3 times so far, and each time woke up feeling great. Just had one of those nights when you wake up with your clothes on from yesterday, and now i'm writing this review. Just ordered 2 more packs, and will make sure i'm stocked. It smells like vitamins, and you'll still be a little tired depending on how much you sleep, but no severe hangover symptoms at all."</p>

<p><strong> What it is:  </strong> Pills that pack vitamins and are designed to work preventively to avoid a bad hangover.</p>

<p><strong> How to use it:  </strong> You take three capsules with water right before you go out and then another three capsules right before going to sleep.</p>

<p><strong> Main ingredients:  </strong> Chlorophyll, B vitamins (B1, B2, B6, folic acid, pantothenic acid and B12), and magnesium.</p>

<p><strong> Who it's right for:  </strong> These pills are gluten-free and vegan, so if you fall into those camps, Flyby might be your best bet. Some reviews also point out that it seems to work (at least anecdotally) for those who drink wine, as opposed to spirits and/or beer.</p>

<p><strong> Honest Amazon review: </strong> "Used the product/pills for the first time this past weekend. Had 3 beers and 2 vodka and clubs between 630PM and 10PM. Took 3 pills before drinking with a big glass or water and then took another 3 before bed with a big glass of water. These pills didn't help at all with feeling hungover the next morning. Always hope that there is a magic pill for feeling like garbage the night after drinking but once again disappointed that there's not! I have a friend that drinks mostly wine and he said that they help? So maybe there's a connection with wine and these helping but they didn't help with beer and vodka."</p>

<p><strong> What it is:  </strong> A pill that's designed to be an after-alcohol aid (similar to Flyby). The company also makes a powder electrolytes supplement, if that's more you're thingbut the after-alcohol aid is the most popular item. The company conducted a human study for its granted patent, and the people in the study who used the pills felt an average of 50 percent better the next day across eight symptoms (headaches, nausea, poor focus, low energy, etc.) than the people who didn't.</p>

<p><strong> How to use it:  </strong> Take two to four capsules right after your last beverage, or right before bed after your night of drinking.</p>

<p><strong> Main ingredients:  </strong> Vitamins B, C, &amp; E, electrolytes, dihydromyricetin (which is said to promote liver health), milk thistle, prickly pear</p>

<p><strong> Who it's right for:  </strong> Anyone who doesn't mind taking pills and spending $ on supps.</p>

<p><strong> Honest Amazon review:  </strong> "I was skeptical, but the ingredients all have published scientific studies backing them so I figured for roughly $3.00 per hangover, Ill give it a try. (I would pay $300 to get rid of some of my hangovers). Drank heavily, took 3 caps at night before bed. Usually wake up with heart palpitations, nausea, sweating, headache etc. used twice so far and I have only woken up tired. You definitely still feel like you drank, but this is the absolute only product Ive tried that has quelled the symptoms of a hangover. A must have, from someone in the medical field."</p>

<p><strong> What it is:  </strong> This Amazon bestseller (it has over 2,500 positive reviews) is an electrolyte powder designed to help with hydration. It's not marketed as a hangover fix specifically, and many athletes use it for hydration purposes.</p>

<p><strong> How to use it:  </strong> Pour a packet into a glass or bottle of water, mix it, and drink. Enjoy it before going out and/or when you wake up feeling like crap.</p>

<p><strong> Main ingredients:  </strong> Electrolytes, B vitamins, and vitamin C</p>

<p><strong> Who it's right for:  </strong> Someone who is dehydrated after drinking, or anyone who wants to hydrate and get a boost of vitamins and minerals.</p>

<p><strong> Honest Amazon review:  </strong> "This stuff will wipe out a hangover in no time!! Also if you play intense sports or sweat a ton in the gym, this will help you hydrate afterward. The taste is kind of like a saltier version of yellow Gatorade. Best way I can describe it. Its not the best tasting stuff but it works a lot better than Gatorade or the other leading sports drinks out there. It should go without saying, but you will need to drink water in conjunction. If you only drink this mixed with water, it will just dehydrate you because of all the salt. This product is designed to help you retain more of the water you drink." </p>

<p><strong> What it is: </strong>  A bottled beverage with a lemon taste, designed to either help prevent hangover symptoms or alleviate them once they've started.</p>

<p><strong> How to use it:  </strong> Drink a full bottle right before your first drink, between drinks, or up to one hour after your last drink. </p>

<p><strong> Main ingredients:  </strong> Dihydromyricetin, electrolytes, milk thistle</p>

<p><strong> Who it's right for:  </strong> Anyone who would prefer to sip something lemony (without having to make it yourself) over popping a pill or wearing a patch.</p>

<p><strong> Honest Amazon review:  </strong> "Hands down the best hangover prevention I have sampled - it has me drinking like a college freshman on probation again. Typically after a night of heavy drinking, I tend to binge watching clips of the Olympics to remind myself what energetic people look like. But one serving of this bad boy before I go out, and I dont have to cancel my plans because I went out the night before. Not only that, but this product has dynamically changed my recovery process. I used to seek shelter in fried food and unholy volumes of soup. But that is in the past - I am no longer at the whims of my sensitive stomach because I can avoid being hungover all together. Trust me when I tell you, the other products dont hold a candle to this weekend saving elixir."</p>

What To Know About So-Called Hangover Pills

Wouldnt it be great if you could have all the inhibition-breaking fun that downing more than a few glasses of wine or champagne brings without the headachy, stomach-turning, kill-me-now pain of a hangover?

Do Hangover Pills Work? A Guide To OTC Hangover Supplements

<p>Its totally normal to wake up anxious or panicked sometimes, says Natalie Wallace, LCSW, a behavioral therapy clinician at Behavioral Associates in New York. Occasional morning anxiety may stem from a nightmare you just had, or could be related to nerves about a big event coming up at work or in life. </p>

<p>Heck, if you dont wake up anxious in the days, say, <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/relationships/g19998474/what-happened-when-women-called-off-their-wedding/" id="dada4fce-871d-3996-adcb-237d9d3df081">  before your wedding </a> or a career-changing project, then congrats! Youre one of the few extremely well-adjusted people on Earth. So dont get too worked up about a one-off nerve-ridden morning. Generally the anxious feelings in those very particular types of circumstances will pass, and you probably wont feel that way for long.</p>

<p>But for some people, morning anxiety is more than occasional. And if it's becoming a regular occurrence in your A.M. routine, then it's time to face it head on and come up with coping and prevention methods that work for youlike the techniques ahead.</p>

<p><strong> Why do I feel anxiety in the morning in the first place? </strong></p>

<p>FYI, morning anxiety is not a formal medical diagnosis. But it's common (and normal) to feel anxious at particular times of the day occasionally, or when you have something big to deal with in the day ahead. </p>

<p>Usually, the anxiety stems from bad thoughts about the day to come. A lot of times we have distorted thoughts about the reality of our days and of our situations, Wallace says. So when you start to ruminate about how bad something is going to be, how stressed you're gonna be, and how tired you are, that is going to ramp up that insecurity.</p>

<p>There probably isn't more to anxiousness in the morning than that, though. Meaning: While it may feel as if you're particularly off mentally/emotionally first in the morning, your body likely isn't going through any sort of physiological change while youre sleeping that causes you to feel panicked when you wake up. It's possible that levels of certain hormones (like <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/g19989015/side-effects-of-stress/" id="72728607-d866-3668-ab5a-b44fb2afdd3b">  the stress hormone cortisol </a> ) are higher in the morning, but scientific evidence to support that these hormonal fluctuations cause heightened anxiety in the morning is lacking.</p>

<p>Ultimately, know that you're *not* alone if you ever imagine how terrible the day will be and feel like You. Just. Cant. Again, its normal to have one of those days every once in a while. </p>

<h1>  Okay, but what if I feel anxious, like, *every* morning?  </h1>

<p>If you wake up feeling anxious most days, itd be wise to get in touch with a therapist. Consistent anxietyno matter what time of day it shows upcan point to <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a23133075/signs-of-anxiety-disorder/" id="d5c5e481-f512-3193-a15e-a7dfb63cf7b2">  generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) </a> , Wallace notes.</p>

<p>And its normal for GAD to show up at consistent times. Some people who have GAD may feel anxious only in the mornings. Typically, it's right before people go to bed and when they wake up in the morning," Wallace says. "Ive also had people report that those are the worst times [for anxiety]. </p>

<p>Why? Having anxiety in the morning tends to interfere with your mood and attitude for the day to come, and having anxiety right before bed can interfere with sleep and then also set you up to still feel on edge when you rise. Your anxiety may also dissipate as the day goes on. </p>

<h1>  What are the morning anxiety signs to look out for?  </h1>

<p>Number one on the list of symptoms:  <strong> racing thoughts </strong> . Mentally, youll feel as if there are problems you need to solve or that you cant possibly solve, and your mind will try to create solutions, Wallace says. </p>

<p>The anxiety these racing thoughts create can also lead to   including: </p>

<ul><li> Fatigue </li><li> Sweating </li><li> Nausea </li><li> Tense muscles </li></ul>

Kasandra Brabaw

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