Itchy skin, also often called pruritus, is a bothersome sensation that usually results in scratching. It’s commonly attributable to dry skin, which is more prevalent in older adults. Depending on the cause, the affected skin may appear normal or inflamed with bumps. Constant scratching can result in thickened, bleeding, or infected skin. While moisturizers and delicate cleansing can provide temporary relief, identifying and treating the foundation cause is important for long-term relief. Treatment options include medicated creams, wet dressings, and oral anti-itch medications.
There are various possible causes of skin itching or itchy skin, starting from easy skin dryness to underlying medical conditions. Among the common causes include dry skin, allergic reactions, insect bites, eczema, psoriasis, medications, kidney disease, and liver disease. When you experience persistent or severe itching, it’s important to hunt medical advice to discover the underlying cause and determine the suitable treatment.
6 Home remedies for itchy skin
Itchy skin is a standard condition that may be attributable to a wide range of aspects, including dry skin, allergies, insect bites, and more. While there are lots of medical treatments available, there are also several home remedies that may help provide relief for mild cases of itchy skin.
Oatmeal Baths:
Oatmeal is a natural skin soother and may help reduce inflammation and itchiness. Add a cup of oatmeal to a warm bath and soak for 20-Half-hour.
Based on a 2015 study, colloidal oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that may help alleviate skin irritation, including scaling, dryness, roughness, and itching in females with mild to moderate itching.
Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that may help soothe dry, itchy skin. Apply a small amount to the affected area and gently massage it into your skin.
Aloe Vera:
Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and swelling related to itchy skin. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel on to the affected area.
Baking Soda:
Baking soda may help soothe itchy skin and reduce inflammation. Mix 1 / 4 cup of baking soda with water to create a paste and apply it to the affected area.
Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar has natural anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce itching and redness. You possibly can apply a mix of apple cider vinegar and water to the affected area with a cotton ball, using equal parts of each. Based on the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), apple cider vinegar is believed to be a useful treatment for soothing an itchy scalp.
Cold Compress:
A chilly compress may help reduce itching and inflammation. Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area for 5-10 minutes at a time.
What to do for itchy skin treatment?
There are several options for treating itchy skin:
- Apply cool compresses or take a cool bath
- Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers
- Avoid scratching the affected area
- Wear loose-fitting clothing product of breathable fabrics
- Use over-the-counter anti-itch creams or lotions
- Take an oral antihistamine or use a topical corticosteroid cream for severe itching
- Discover and avoid triggers resembling certain foods, allergens, or irritants
- Seek the advice of a physician if the itching persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.
What cancer causes itchy skin?
There are several varieties of cancer that may cause itchy skin, including Hodgkin’s lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and liver cancer. Itching may also be a side effect of cancer treatments, resembling chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It will be important to seek the advice of a healthcare provider if experiencing persistent itching, as it could be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Take Away
Skin itching is a standard condition that may be attributable to a wide range of aspects, resembling dry skin, allergies, and medical conditions. It could possibly be a short lived and simply treatable condition, or it could require medical attention. Knowing the underlying reason behind your itchy skin is essential to finding effective treatment options and stopping further discomfort. In case your itchy skin persists or worsens, seek the advice of a healthcare skilled for correct diagnosis and treatment.
FAQs
What vitamin deficiency causes itchy skin?
A deficiency in vitamin B12, vitamin D, and vitamin E may cause itchy skin.
What foods are good for itchy skin?
Foods wealthy in omega-3 fatty acids, resembling fish, nuts, and seeds, may help relieve itchy skin.
Is coconut oil good for itching skin?
Yes, coconut oil may be good for itching skin because it has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
References
- How one can relieve itching – Medical News Today
- Integrative Approaches to Care – National Psoriasis Foundation
- Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment of itch related to dry, irritated skin -PubMed
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