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Real members of MySebDermTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MySebDermTeam Member asked a question 💭
National City, CA

My aftereffects from scratching due to SD cause me to feel dizzy, faint, weak and short of breath. Leaving me to seek out a cold/wet wash cloth that I need to apply on my face, arms and hand's. Does anyone else experience this? Does this sound familiar.

June 10
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MySebDermTeam

That sounds really uncomfortable, and it's completely understandable to want to know if others experience something similar. While dizziness, faintness, weakness, and shortness of breath aren't commonly documented as direct aftereffects of scratching in seborrheic dermatitis, the intense itch-scratch cycle can take a real Show Full Answer

That sounds really uncomfortable, and it's completely understandable to want to know if others experience something similar. While dizziness, faintness, weakness, and shortness of breath aren't commonly documented as direct aftereffects of scratching in seborrheic dermatitis, the intense itch-scratch cycle can take a real physical and emotional toll on the body.

Scratching can worsen inflammation and cause significant skin damage, and the stress response your body goes through during an intense flare-up could potentially contribute to feeling physically drained afterward. However, symptoms like dizziness, faintness, and shortness of breath are worth taking seriously. It would be strongly recommended to speak with a doctor about these specific aftereffects, as they'll want to understand what's happening beyond the skin.

In the meantime, avoiding scratching as much as possible is key. Here are a few alternatives to help manage the urge:

- Apply a cool, damp cloth to itchy areas (sounds like you're already onto this one!)
- Use a prescribed topical treatment to help calm inflammation
- Try deep breathing or distraction techniques when the itch feels overwhelming

Talking to a dermatologist about better itch control could also help break the cycle before it gets to that point.

June 10

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