Pruritus: Itchy Skincare Defined

Is your skin itchy and irritated? Doctors define itchy skin as "pruritus". There are many reasons as to why skin becomes itchy. The big ones are dry skin and skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis. Those with compromised immune systems are more prone to pruritus, such as the elderly, pregnant women, those with allergies, or those with serious conditions like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or cancer. Other factors include various infections, fungus, or allergic reactions.

Physically, pruritus can have no visible symptoms, or it can become red, bumpy, blistered, or scaly. Treating pruritus means first determining the source and then treating the underlying cause. Ask yourself whether this could be related to a food allergy, a new beauty product, or sensitivity to a new medication. If it is related to a drug interaction, oftentimes simply switching to a new medication will relieve the problem.

In many cases, dry skin (called xerosis) is the primary cause. Use a daily moisturizer to relieve flaking and dryness (Peter Thomas Roth Oil Free Moisturizer), and wear sunscreen year-round to prevent sun damage. Switch to mild, preferably unscented, soaps and detergents. Using a humidifier in your house can also add moisture back into the air and into your skin.

To relieve itching, wear loose, cotton clothing; avoid wool or synthetic fabrics. Bathing in warm water can provide temporary relief; try adding either oatmeal or cornstarch to soothe the skin. Oral antihistamines like Benadryl, and topical anti-itch creams containing hydrocortisone, like Obagi Nu-Derm Tolereen, can also help. Avoid scratching as much as possible; this can lead to further infections such as impetigo.

If the itching is severe enough to affect your daily life, or if you are having other symptoms as well, see a doctor immediately. Severe itching can be treated by your doctor using antibiotics or steroid pills, but only in rare cases. Sometimes, skin problems occur due to an internal disease, such as anemia, liver disease, kidney failure, or thyroid problems, so don't ignore your body's warning signs!

By Skincare News Team. May 30, 2007

Source: skincare-news.com