Itchy skin is an external manifestation in which an area of ​​the body is irritated, causing the desire to itch. Such a symptom is often compared to the body's defensive reaction, which is trying to point out to a person that there are problems in him.

The symptom can occur in absolutely every person, regardless of gender and age category. It can cause its appearance wide range factors, both pathological and not related to the course of the disease.

Despite the fact that the itching of the skin itself is a symptom, it is accompanied by a large number of external manifestations, which may additionally indicate one or another pathology. To determine the etiological factor that became the source of such a symptom, it is necessary to conduct a laboratory and instrumental diagnostic examination.

The tactics of therapy directly depends on the cause of itching, but in most cases, conservative methods of therapy are sufficient.

Etiology

The pathogenesis of the desire to scratch this or that part of the skin is that blood flows to the receptors located under the epithelial cells containing a large amount of such substances as:

• histamine or histidine;
• bile acids secreted by the liver - it is because of this that a similar symptom is expressed during the course of a large number of diseases of this organ;
• serotonin;
• cytokines;
• endorphins;
• nitrogen slags;
• hormones thyroid gland or pancreatic enzymes.

Itching of the skin can occur both throughout the body and in a specific area. Depending on where it is located, the causes of itchy skin will differ. For example, a similar manifestation in the anal area can be caused by:

• the formation of external or;
• chronic;
• pathological influence of pathogens.

Haemorrhoids - possible reason itching in the anal area

Itchy scalp in most cases is caused by:

On the cutaneous areas of the genitals, such a clinical manifestation can cause:

• pathological bacteria;
• - among the fairer sex;
• irritation with urine, for example, when leaking or;
• and in men;
• pubic lice.

Itching on the hands often appears with scabies, and on the face with.

In addition, there are several factors that affect the appearance of itchy skin in a child or an adult in the absence of any disease. Thus, among the physiological reasons, it is worth noting:

• non-observance of the rules of personal hygiene;
• menopause in women;
• a wide range of allergic reactions, for example, to washing powder, creams, cosmetics, etc .;
• lack of vitamins in the body;
• insect bites;
• prolonged overheating of the skin;
• dry air;
• frequent visits soul.

It is also not uncommon to experience itchy skin during pregnancy. The place of its localization will be the area of ​​the abdomen or lower back. Often, such a symptom is the body's response to the compression of nerve endings by an enlarged uterus, as well as stretching of the skin with a constantly growing abdomen.

Classification

Depending on the prevalence, this manifestation is:

• generalized is itchy skin all over the body;
• focal - a person can clearly indicate the place of localization of such a feeling.

Varieties of a symptom for the reasons for its formation:

• dermatological - characterized by damage to the skin, which can occur against the background of scabies, or insect bites;
• systemic - is one of the signs of ailments of the liver, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys or thyroid gland;
• neuropathic - often formed due to damage to the central or peripheral nervous system;
• psychogenic - such itching develops on a nervous basis.

Quite often, this manifestation is of a mixed nature, in which it can be difficult to identify the sources of such a disorder.

It is also worth highlighting several specific types of itching of the skin:

• reflex - appears in overly suspicious or emotional people at the mention of any irritating factor;
• high-altitude - begins to express itself when rising to a height;
• senile - more than half of people over seventy years of age experience the appearance of a similar sensation;
• aquagenic - occurs against the background of contact of the skin with water.

Symptoms

Since in the overwhelming majority of cases itching of the skin is caused by the course of one or another ailment, in addition to the main symptom, other specific signs of skin lesions may be observed. These clinical manifestations include:

• - often redness has a well-defined border. Often, such lesions rise above the skin and have vesicles. In some pathological processes, there is a tendency to merge several reddened areas;
• , while the scales can bring quite intense discomfort;
• burning sensation;
• the occurrence of wounds and scratches due to the constant scratching of problem areas;
• the appearance of characteristic rashes;
• the formation of crusts - they appear at the site of rupture of bubbles or abscesses.

Very often, such a symptom is a symptom of liver diseases, but there is a list of other clinical manifestations indicating the defeat of this organ:

• increased gas formation;
• upset stools, which can be expressed in diarrhea or, as well as their alternation;
• a change in the color of urine (it darkens) and feces(they are discolored);
• the skin and mucous membranes turn yellow. It is this symptom that leads to the appearance of itchy skin. varying degrees severity. In such cases, itching is observed without rashes;
• bitter taste in the mouth;
• general malaise.

If the occurrence of such a problem was due to physiological reasons, in particular, in pregnant women, then additional signs can be considered:

• or complete lack of sleep;
• depressed mood;
• physical and emotional discomfort.

It is worth noting that all of the above manifestations are just the main symptoms that may accompany itching. Symptoms are individual. In rare cases, in addition to the main symptom, other external expressions may not be observed, for example, with blood diseases or mental disorders.

Diagnostics

A wide variety of etiological factors provides for a whole range of diagnostic measures.

The primary diagnosis is carried out by a dermatologist - it is this specialist that must be consulted first of all in case of skin lesions. The clinician initially:

• asks the patient for the first time of appearance, the degree of severity and the presence of additional symptoms;
• examines the patient's medical history and life history, which will reveal some of the reasons for the formation of the main symptom;
• performs a detailed physical examination, during which the condition of the skin is carefully examined.

The second stage of diagnosis consists of the implementation of laboratory examinations, which include:

• clinical and biochemical analysis blood - will indicate a change in its composition and signs of a pathological process;
• general analysis urine;
• microscopic examination of feces - to exclude or confirm the presence of pathogenic bacteria;
• scraping from itchy and flaky skin areas - for possible detection of fungal or infectious lesions.

Then, if necessary, the dermatologist will refer the patient for further instrumental diagnostics, to other specialists in the field of gastroenterology, endocrinology, oncology, etc.

Treatment

The tactics of how to get rid of itching of the skin in children and adults in each case will be individual in nature and depend on the reasons for the appearance of the main symptom. In such cases, only the attending physician decides on a conservative or surgical treatment pathology, which served as the source of such a symptom.

Nevertheless, absolutely all patients are shown to undergo specific treatment aimed at neutralizing itching. For this, the following medications are prescribed:

• antihistamines;
• desensitizing - to reduce sensitivity to allergens;
• antipruritic ointment;
• hormonal substances;
• sedatives.

In addition to traditional therapy, several folk remedies have been developed that will help get rid of such an unpleasant manifestation. How to relieve itchy skin at home:

• rubbing with vinegar;
• lotions with an alcohol-based menthol solution;
• applying talcum powder or white clay powders to the skin;
• taking baths with the addition of medicinal plants such as chamomile, string and oak bark;
• using tar, ichthyol or sulfur soap;
• preparation of a cream based on talc, white clay, starch and any essential oil.

Besides, folk remedies provide for the ingestion of decoctions and infusions based on:

• violets and nettles;
• licorice and burdock;
• valerian and agrimony;
• elecampane and juniper;
• pumpkin seeds.

It is worth noting that before starting such treatment at home, you should consult your doctor.

Prophylaxis

Any specific preventive measures from the appearance of skin itching on the legs, arms, head and body does not exist. To avoid the appearance of such a symptom, it is necessary:

• completely abandon addictions;
• observe the rules of personal hygiene;
• take medications only as prescribed by the clinician and in strict compliance with the daily rate;
• carefully select substances for washing and cleaning, because very often they are the ones that cause allergies;
• enrich the body with vitamins and strengthen immune system;
• ensure sufficient air humidity in the room;

Joseph Addison

With help physical exercise and abstinence most people can do without medicine.

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Content

What is itchy skin

Human skin is permeated with billions of nerve endings that are very sensitive to all kinds of stimuli: vibration, touch, chemical or thermal effects. A crawling insect, an insect bite, the touch of a feather, cobwebs, hairs can cause the desire to itch, burning, tingling at the site of irritation: I want to quickly remove this unpleasant sensation by scratching the itchy skin.

Generalized itching - intolerable discomfort in the superficial layers of the dermis - can cause some diseases internal organs, allergic reactions with dermatitis. Among the symptoms of dermatological diseases, itchy skin dominates, but often there is a syndrome of scratching of the anogenital zone, conjunctiva, trachea, pharynx, nose, and oral mucosa. Distinguish between itching of the whole body without rashes and with a rash.

Itchy body without rash

Itching throughout the body without rashes can occur against the background of diseases:

Rash and itching on the body

If multiple changes occur on the mucous membrane and skin that differ in color, texture, appearance from normal skin are indicative of a rash. The rash can affect the arms, legs, face, abdomen, and chest. These may be primary symptoms - pustules, redness, spots, goose bumps, blisters, pimples, blisters. As the disease progresses, the rash is replaced by secondary elements:

• Loss of the natural color of the skin (discoloration, darkening).
• Erosion, ulcers are the result of opening an abscess with a violation of the integrity of the skin with the capture of subcutaneous adipose tissue.
• Peeling - scales of dead epidermis.
• Crusts - the dried surface of weeping erosion, ulcers, open bubbles.
• Scratching - superficial or deep abrasions.
• Lichenification - tightening, strengthening of the skin pattern.

It is not worth making a diagnosis on your own, guided by visible signs and information read. For any suspicious manifestations, you should consult a doctor to identify the underlying internal pathology that caused the scratching. A rash and a strong desire to scratch the body accompany diseases such as:

Why does the whole body itch

When the body itches in different places, it is necessary, first of all, to determine the cause of this condition. Perhaps this is a consequence of fungal, allergic, inflammatory skin diseases, pathologies of internal organs, mental disorders and neuropathic diseases. Since there are so many reasons, it is important to conduct a thorough diagnosis of the body to establish the root cause.

Allergy

Allergy in the 21st century has become a scourge of humanity. The entire population of the planet suffers from this disease to one degree or another. Allergy manifests itself in the form of edema, rash, scratching, which are of varying severity - from light scratching to scratching with the appearance of blood. With allergies and dermatitis, a large amount of histamine accumulates in the skin - a substance that causes scabies, tissue edema, and dilates blood vessels. Therefore, itchy areas of the skin appear swollen and reddened.

Allergic itching is eliminated with antihistamines, but then the allergen should be identified and eliminated. A more serious neuroallergic disease is neurodermatitis or atopic dermatitis, which is characterized by uncontrollable, unbearable localized itching. This disease develops from childhood and subsides a little in puberty, but later it recurs again. Treatment of diffuse neurodermatitis is long and complex.

Stress

A common cause of itching throughout the body is the development of psychogenic conditions: mental trauma, overstrain of the nervous system, stress, when a person does not control hand movements and constantly scratches and rubs his skin. At the same time, the desire to scratch under stress does not weaken, but, on the contrary, can only intensify. Often, against the background of neuroses, periodic wandering itching occurs when a specific place cannot be determined. Seizures can be avoided or reduced in intensity by eliminating the stressors.

Seasonal itching

Patients who complain of exacerbation of scabies attacks in spring or autumn can be confidently diagnosed with VSD (vegetative vascular dystonia). This is due to a lack of vitamins in the body. Vitamin therapy, which should be prescribed by the attending physician, will help to eliminate the symptoms. If the whole body itches in winter, then you should go to the doctor and find out the reasons for this condition.

What diseases does the body itch

Itching in the body can manifest itself in various diseases, while it differs in symptoms:

Types of itchy skin

There is the following classification according to the frequency of relapses and the intensity of manifestation:

1. Spicy. It is a consequence of pathology in the body.
2. Local. It has biological causes - bugs, ticks, etc., and is felt in a certain place.
3. Generalized. Unpleasant manifestations all over the body for various reasons. It can be observed in hepatic, endocrine, dermatological, hematological, neurogenic diseases, oncology.
4. Chronic. It occurs for no apparent reason and indicates dermatosis, systemic diseases during an exacerbation.

What to do if the whole body itches

Considering that there is one itch, and there are many reasons, its treatment must be approached in different ways. What to do if the whole body itches? You can use ointments and creams that can relieve discomfort, but if the reasons lie in liver diseases or disorders endocrine system then self-medication local funds can only exacerbate the problem and complicate further treatment. Indeed, in this case, itching on the skin is just the tip of the iceberg, under which a serious illness is hidden, possibly fraught with tragic consequences.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of itchy lesions in the areas will be required to determine the root cause. Contact a dermatologist first for an appointment for tests and a detailed examination. If the dermatologist finds it difficult to name the reason, you will need to consult a therapist, endocrinologist, allergist, gastroenterologist and other specialists. Principles of itchy skin treatment:

• elimination of the cause;
• local treatment;
• systemic treatment.

Drug treatment

Depending on the reasons that caused the unpleasant symptoms, treatment of itching of the skin of the body is prescribed. For allergic scratching, antihistamines are prescribed: Zirtek, Loratidin, Erius, Zirtek, Suprastin, Tavegil. Additionally, it is recommended to take sedatives: Novo-Passit, valerian, tea with mint, motherwort tincture, since the constant desire to itch interferes with sleep and makes the patient irritable. Complex manifestations are treated only under medical supervision.

However, this will take some time, and you want to relieve the itching as quickly as possible. Therefore, there are general recommendations:

1. The diet should not contain salty, spicy, spicy foods. It is undesirable to drink strong tea, coffee, alcohol.
2. If the itching of the body in an elderly person (senile, worse in the evening and at night), then iodine preparations will alleviate the condition.
3. Take warm sea salt baths.
4. Wipe the skin with calendula tincture in alcohol, lubricate with menthol-based antihistamine ointments.

Folk remedies

Along with drug therapy, treatment with folk remedies for itching of the body is used:

• A quick effect is achieved from taking baths with decoctions of plants: nettle, chamomile, mint, celandine, pine needles.
• Pruritoseptive (for insect bites) is removed with coconut oil baths. For this, 50 g of oil is dissolved in a water bath and poured into warm water. The procedure lasts 15 minutes.
• Lemon juice copes well with itching, but they can not lubricate areas with disturbed skin.
• Vaseline will help to quickly relieve itching, which will additionally moisturize and soften.
• Basil should be used to soothe irritations. It contains vitamins A, C, P, which are very important for skin health. It is necessary to wipe the irritated areas with a clean fresh leaf or prepare a decoction of basil and make lotions.
• As applications are used Apple vinegar, celandine (do not use celandine for chemical and sunburn).

How to treat an itchy body

If a diagnosis is made, the disease that caused the cause is determined, an appropriate medicine for itching of the skin of the body is prescribed:

1. For renal itching: UVB therapy, Cholestyramine, activated charcoal, Thalidomide, Naltrexone, Ondansetron, Capsacin cream, Tavegil.
2. Itching against the background of cholestasis is treated with ursodeoxycholic acid, Cholestyramine, Phenobarbital, Rifampicin, Naloxone, Naltrexone, Nalmefen, Feksadin, Trexil, Tavegil.
3. Endocrine diseases: skin hydration is necessary, hormonal drugs, compensation diabetes mellitus.
4. Hematological diseases: iron preparations, Aspirin, Cholestyramine, Cimetidine.
5. Senile (senile): drugs with a sedative effect (sedatives).

Local treatment

Local treatment includes the treatment of the skin surface in the foci of inflammation. It can be compresses, lotions of 3-5% vinegar, talcum powder, morning and evening hygiene. Among medications effective ointment:

• Locoid;
• Triderm;
• Ultraproject;
• Belosalik;
• Baneocin;
• hydrocortisone ointment (has a lot of contraindications).

Antihistamines

In the treatment of diseases with manifestations of itching, drugs are often used that block the production of histamine. Antihistamines:

1. Atarax. Active substance- hydroxyzine hydrochloride.
2. Burlikourt. It is prescribed to eliminate any signs of allergies. The active ingredient is triamcinolone.
3. Desazon. The active ingredient is dexamethasone.
4. Diazolin. It is prescribed for psoriasis, eczema, urticaria, insect bites.

Etiotropic therapy

This is a treatment aimed at eliminating microbial, viral, bacterial, infectious pathogens. Everything antibacterial drugs(antibiotics), sulfonamides, nitrofuran drugs are etiotropic. Etiotropic agents include interferons, antidotes, immune globulins, probiotics, bacteriophages, and anthelmintic drugs. Drugs for etiotropic therapy are used for complications of hereditary diseases, poisoning, herpetic infections of various organs.

How to remove an itchy body at home

Home treatment is aimed at eliminating symptoms, but you need to work with your doctor to combat the cause of your strong urge to scratch your skin. As temporary help, you can use:

1. Burdock roots. You need dried roots in order to then get a powder using a coffee grinder. Pour 2 tbsp into a saucepan. l. powder, pour 1 liter of water. Cook for half an hour. When it cools down, you can make gauze compresses, applying to the irritated area. The effect should come within half an hour.
2. Alcohol tincture elecampane. You can cook it at home, for which you take 1 tbsp. l. finely chopped roots, pour them into a suitable dark glass bottle, add 50 ml of alcohol there. The tincture is prepared for 10 days, after which you need to make an aqueous solution with the tincture and wipe the itchy skin. According to people's reviews, the effect comes immediately.
3. Needles. You will need young buds and pine needles in the amount of one glass. Pour them with a liter of boiling water and boil over low heat for 20 minutes. Wash your face with a cooled broth, wipe your skin, make compresses and lotions. The result is felt quickly.

Itching all over the body without rash and with rashes in adults - causes and treatment

Overview

Itching is an unpleasant sensation that causes a person to scratch the affected area of ​​the skin. If the skin itches slightly, this is normal and common, but sometimes this sensation is strong and causes a lot of problems. Constant and intense itching is usually a symptom of a disease of the skin, body organs, or nervous system.

Sometimes itching is accompanied by a rash, but it can also occur on externally unchanged skin. By the degree of distribution, they are distinguished generalized itching- when the whole body itches and local (local) itching covering only a specific area of ​​the skin.

With frequent scratching, the skin becomes thinner, traumatized and inflamed, which can make it sore and itchy even more. Regardless of the cause of the itching, several methods can help reduce its intensity and alleviate the condition:

• rub the affected area of ​​skin with your fingertips or press on it with your palm;
• moisturize itchy skin with emollients, then you will damage it less when scratching;
• make cold compresses, for example, from a damp cloth, take cool baths;
• use external antipruritic agents in the form of lotions, ointments, etc., for example, calamine lotion, antihistamines and steroid creams;
• buy perfume-free cosmetics and hygiene products;
• Avoid clothing that irritates the skin: synthetic fabrics, coarse wool, etc.

Keep your nails clean and short, especially if itching in children. The ends of the nails should be filed, not cut. The trimmed ends of the nails are sharp and uneven, they damage the skin more severely.

Causes of itching

In most cases, the itching sensation occurs when sensitive nerve endings in the skin and mucous membranes are excited - receptors. Receptor irritants can be: mechanical, temperature, influence of chemicals, light, etc. One of the main chemical irritants is a biologically active substance - histamine, which is produced in the body during allergies or inflammation.

There is also itching of central origin, that is, it develops without the participation of the nerve endings of the skin. The source of central itching is a focus of excitation of nerve cells in the brain, which happens in some neurological diseases.

Finally, it is known that there are factors that can increase the sensitivity of the skin to itching. For example, when exposed to heat in hot weather or when the body temperature rises, the skin itches more, while cold, on the contrary, relieves itching. Most of all, people suffer from itching in the evening and at night, which is associated with daily fluctuations in diameter blood vessels and, consequently, the temperature of the skin.

The immediate causes of itching can be various diseases skin, internal organs, nervous system, blood and even malignant tumors. Itching in a child is a common symptom of chickenpox (chickenpox), a childhood infection, the main manifestation of which is a characteristic skin rash.

Itching with skin diseases

Skin diseases, in addition to itching, are accompanied by the appearance of a rash: blisters, spots, nodules, blisters, peeling and other elements on the skin. The following skin conditions can cause itching:

In addition, the skin can itch after insect bites: mosquitoes, bedbugs, lice (with head lice), fleas, stinging arthropods (wasps, bees, etc.). As a rule, a small nodule forms at the site of the bite against the background of reddened and hot skin. Sometimes in the center of the nodule, you can see the immediate site of the bite in the form of a dark point. People with sensitive skin and a tendency to allergies are especially hard to tolerate insect bites.

Itchy skin is often caused by a variety of chemicals that attack the skin, such as:

• cosmetical tools;
• fabric paints or coatings;
• some metals such as nickel;
• juices of some plants (nettle, hogweed).

Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation from the sun's rays, it is easy to get a sunburn, after which itching appears, the skin turns red, and sometimes becomes covered with watery blisters. Excessive dryness of the skin can be another cause of itching. If the above diseases appear, consult a dermatologist.

Itching of the skin with diseases of the internal organs

A symptom of some diseases of internal organs is generalized (general) itching. In most cases, the skin remains unchanged: normal color, without rash, peeling. Such diseases include:

• Diabetes . Severe itching of the skin and thirst are sometimes the first symptoms of diabetes. Especially severe itching usually occurs in the genital area and anus.
• An overactive thyroid is sometimes accompanied by complaints of itchy skin. This is due to the acceleration of metabolism and an increase in temperature. With reduced thyroid function, general itching is also possible, associated with dry skin.
• Kidney failure can cause itching. This is due to damage to the nerve fibers of the skin and a decrease in the sensitivity threshold of the nerve endings. That is, weaker stimuli begin to produce an itchy sensation.
• Polycythemia, a blood disorder associated with overproduction of blood cells, why the blood thickens, the risk of blood clots and vascular blockage increases. In polycythemia, itching is a common problem, and the skin itches especially badly after showering or any other contact with water. Polycythemia is treated by a hematologist.
• Iron deficiency anemia is a blood disease associated with a violation of the production of hemoglobin. Reception drugs with iron usually relieves itching quickly.
• Lymphogranulomatosis (Hodgkin's lymphoma) is a malignant blood disease that begins with an increase in lymph nodes, more often on the neck. Sometimes the first symptom of lymphogranulomatosis is itchy skin, which intensifies in the evening and at night. The skin itches more often in the area of ​​the affected lymph node.
• Some types of cancer, such as breast, lung, or prostate cancer, also cause itchy skin.

Somewhat less often, itching is accompanied by a change in skin tone, which, for example, happens with subhepatic jaundice associated with a violation of the outflow of bile from the gallbladder. The skin begins to itch due to the accumulation of bile acids in it. This can be the case with gallstone disease, some types of hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, pancreatic cancer, etc.

Sometimes itching occurs as a result of neurological or mental disorders or diseases. For example, after a stroke, with postherpetic neuralgia, stress and depression.

Itching during pregnancy and during menopause

Itching often occurs in pregnant women and goes away after childbirth. During pregnancy, a number of skin diseases that cause itching, including the following:

• Itchy urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (polymorphic dermatitis of pregnancy), a skin disorder that occurs during pregnancy, in which an itchy, red, raised rash appears on the thighs and abdomen;
• prurigo of pregnancy - a red itchy skin rash that most often appears on the arms, legs, and trunk;
• itching of pregnant women - itching, without skin rash, arising from liver overload during pregnancy.

All these conditions usually appear in late pregnancy and disappear after childbirth. Their treatment is carried out jointly by a general practitioner and an obstetrician-gynecologist. If you experience itching or an unusual skin rash during pregnancy, see your doctor.

Itching is also a common symptom during menopause. Itching is thought to be caused by decreased estrogen production and imbalance in other hormones.

Itching in the anus

The causes of itching in anus or anal itching can be a number of diseases, for example, the following:

Itching in intimate area(itching in the vagina, perineum, itching of the penis and scrotum) is one of the painful and delicate problems. The main causes of itching in this area are usually infection:

• thrush (vaginal candidiasis and thrush in men) - a fungal infection of the genitals, sometimes it can spread to the rectal area, causing itching in the anus;
• genital infections - sexually transmitted diseases;
• bacterial vaginosis can cause intimate itching in women;
• pubic lice - a lesion with pubic lice;
• allergies, including condom latex, intimate hygiene products, semen, etc.

Why do my legs itch?

In addition to common reasons, local itching of the legs can be associated with:

• varicose veins lower limbs- accompanied by swelling, pain and heaviness in the legs in the evening;
• fungal infection of the nails and skin in the interdigital spaces on the legs, in addition to itching, peeling of the skin, changes in the shape and color of the nails are possible.

Itching treatment

Depending on why the skin itches, treatment recommendations will differ, but there are several general rules, adherence to which will help relieve itching. Particular attention should be paid to the rules of personal hygiene. While taking a bath or shower, do the following:

• Use cool or lukewarm water (not hot).
• Avoid using perfumed soap, shower gel, or deodorant. Fragrance-free lotions or water-based creams are available over the counter.
• Apply a non-scented moisturizing lotion or cream after your bath or shower to keep your skin from drying out.

With regard to clothing and bedding, adhere to the following rules:

• Do not wear clothing that irritates your skin, such as wool or synthetic fabrics.
• Buy cotton clothing whenever possible.
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing.
• Use a mild detergent that will not irritate your skin.
• Sleep in light, loose clothing.

Medicines for itching

In a relationship medicines, adhere to the following rules:

• Apply an oily moisturizer to dry or flaky skin.
• as directed by a doctor, you can use steroid (hormonal) creams for several days, applying them to the inflamed itchy areas of the skin;
• take antihistamines (anti-allergy medications) to stop itching - consult a doctor before use.

Antihistamine tablets can also cause severe drowsiness, so after taking them, do not drive, use a power tool, or do difficult work that requires concentration.

Certain antidepressants, such as paroxetine or sertraline, can relieve itching (if your doctor prescribes them, this does not mean you are depressed).

If you have itching on areas covered with hair, such as the scalp, your doctor may prescribe a special lotion instead of using sticky creams.

Which doctor should I contact if my skin itches?

All materials on the site have been checked by doctors. However, even the most reliable article does not allow taking into account all the features of the disease in a particular person. Therefore, the information posted on our website cannot replace a visit to the doctor, but only supplements it. The articles have been prepared for informational purposes only and are of a recommendatory nature.

Itching is one of the most common dermatological complaints, and it can manifest itself not only in patients with dermatoses, but also in a wide range of general diseases. It is an unpleasant sensation accompanied by a continuous need for a mechanical response to the skin. Itching can significantly affect general state and the quality of life of patients, causing insomnia, anxiety, and in severe cases, even leading to depression and suicidal thoughts.

Itching is a form of the skin analyzer, similar to other types of skin sensation (touch, pain). In contrast to pain, which causes the reflex of "withdrawal, avoidance", with itching, a reflex of "processing" arises. Scratching, rubbing, kneading, warming, pinching the itchy areas leads to instant, but not lasting, satisfaction. This is due to the fact that in the process of combing, stronger impulses are simulated in the nerve endings, which suppress the conduction of weaker itching signals from the affected areas. Severe itching is relieved only by severe self-harm, leading to the replacement of the sensation of itching with a feeling of pain. If itching exists for a long time, then a focus of pathological excitement and itching from defensive reaction turns into a standard skin reaction to various external and internal stimuli. At the same time, in response to prolonged scratching, the state of peripheral nerve receptors also changes, which leads to a decrease in the threshold for itching perception. Thus, a "vicious circle" is formed, the presence of which explains the difficulties in treating itching.

Itching is caused by mechanical, thermal, electrical or chemical stimulation of myelin-free nerve fibers, the free nerve endings of which lie on the border of the epidermis and dermis. They are excited either directly or indirectly, by releasing various mediators (histamine, serotonin, proteases, neuropeptides, etc.).

Physiological itching occurs in response to environmental stimuli (crawling of insects, friction, temperature changes, etc.) and disappears after the cause is eliminated. Pathological itching is caused by changes in the skin or throughout the body and causes a strong urge to get rid of the itching by scratching or other means.

Itching can be a symptom of various dermatoses (scabies, head lice, atopic dermatitis, allergic dermatitis, eczema, mycoses, psoriasis, lichen planus, etc.) or occur on unchanged skin with diseases of internal organs. Endogenous causes of pruritus are very diverse:

If the cause of itching, even with a thorough examination, cannot be identified, then it is defined as itching unclear genesis(pruritus sine materia).

For a correct assessment of itching, it is necessary to carefully collect an anamnesis and question the patient. Attention should be paid to the following characteristics of itching: time of onset, provoking factors, intensity, course, localization, character.

The intensity of itching can vary from mild to severe. For a more objective assessment, it should be clarified: whether itching interferes with falling asleep; whether the patient wakes up from itching; Whether the itching interferes with your daily work. Itching leading to sleep disturbance is considered severe.

Depending on the time of occurrence, they are distinguished - night, day, constant, seasonal. For example, with scabies and widespread eczema - the itching intensifies when patients go to bed; anal itching caused by pinworms occurs between two and three in the morning; with psychoneuroses - permanent.

Limited itching of the skin of any one anatomical region, as a rule, is caused by local causes. The presence of widespread and symmetrical itching suggests an intrinsic nature.

The sensation of itching can be “deep” or “superficial”, it can be a burning sensation, tingling sensation (for example, for dermatitis herpetiformis burning itching is characteristic, especially of the scalp). Itching - parasthesia is a tingling sensation, a slight burning sensation, creeping creeps, etc., develops with increased pain sensitivity of the skin and decreases with stroking or light pressure on the itching focus. Biopsy pruritus leads to deep damage to the skin.

As a result of prolonged itching and scratching, excoriation, pigmentation, scars, lichenification, pyoderma occur. The free edge of the nail plates is grinded, the nails look like polished. Objective signs are not required for a diagnosis of pruritus.

Features of itching in syndromes of different origins

Cholestatic (hepatic) pruritus Is one of the most painful and persistent symptoms of chronic cholestasis. It occurs in 100% of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis and in almost 50% is a reason to see a doctor. More often it precedes all other symptoms of cirrhosis. Usually generalized, more pronounced on the limbs, thighs, abdomen, and with obstructive jaundice - on the palms, soles, interdigital folds of the arms and legs, under tight clothing.

Uremic itching with chronic renal failure, can be local or diffuse, more pronounced on the skin of the neck, shoulder girdle, extremities, genitals, in the nose. Intense, worse at night or immediately after dialysis, and during the summer months.

Diabetic itching more often occurs in the anogenital region, auditory canals, in some patients it is diffuse.

Hyperthyroid pruritus observed in 4-10% of patients with thyrotoxicosis, diffuse, dim, unstable.

Hypothyroid itching is caused by dry skin, generalized, sometimes very intense, up to excoriation.

Climacteric itching observed mainly in the anogenital region, in the axillary folds, on the chest, tongue, palate, often has a paroxysmal course.

Itching in hematological and lymphoproliferative diseases... Generalized or local: Hodgkin's disease - over the lymph nodes, anogenital - with iron deficiency anemia, with polycethemia - on the head, neck, limbs. With polycethemia, stabbing, burning, aquogenic itching may precede the disease for several years.

Paraneoplastic itching sometimes appears several years before the onset of the disease. It can be local or generalized, of varying intensity. For some forms of cancer, there is a specific localization of itching: in prostate cancer - itching of the scrotum and perineum; with cervical cancer - itching of the vagina; with rectal cancer - perianal region; with a brain tumor infiltrating the bottom of the IV ventricle, itching in the nostrils.

Senile itching occurs in almost 50% of people over 70 years old, more often in men and proceeds in the form of nocturnal attacks. The causes of senile itching are mainly endocrine disorders, atherosclerosis, dry skin. Senile pruritus is a diagnosis of exclusion; in order to diagnose it, another cause of itching must be rejected.

Localized itching

Itchy anus- extremely painful suffering, observed almost exclusively in men, especially after 40 years. It is often complicated by the appearance of painful cracks, streptococcal or candidal diaper rash, the formation of boils, and hydradenitis. Causes: untidiness, hemorrhoids, helminthic invasion (enterobiasis), diabetes mellitus, constipation, proctitis, prostatitis, vesiculitis, intestinal dysbiosis.

Genital itching... It occurs in women after 45 years of age in the external genital area, less often in the vagina. Itching is painful, accompanied by the appearance of excoriation and dyschromia of the skin. Causes: leucorrhoea, urogenital infections, endocrine disorders (menopause), inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, sexual neuroses. In girls, genital itching is observed with enterobiasis.

Itchy scalp often a manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis, it can also be a sign of diabetes. On the scalp, excoriation and bloody crusts are usually observed, as well as impetiginous elements as a result of a secondary infection.

Itching of the auricles and external auditory canals can be observed with eczema, seborrheic and atopic dermatitis, psoriasis.

Itchy nose may be a manifestation of hay fever, as well as with intestinal helminthiasis in children.

Itchy fingers observed with eczema, scabies, infestation of bird mites.

Itching of the skin of the lower extremities may be due varicose veins, varicose eczema, dry skin.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of pruritus requires special attention, since it may precede the manifestation of severe diseases. At the first stage, a physical examination is carried out with an in-depth study of the condition of the skin and, in the presence of skin manifestations, an in-depth dermatological examination. Every patient suffering from pruritus should be tested for dermatozoonoses. In cases where itching cannot be associated with any dermatosis, other causes should be sought. Screening for an itchy patient should include:

• clinical blood test, ESR;
• general urine analysis with determination of protein, sugar, sediment;
• biochemical blood test (liver function tests: ALT, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase; fasting glucose; cholesterol; urea, uric acid, creatinine, acid phosphatase; determination of total protein and protein fractions; iron level and iron-binding capacity of serum, saturation of erythrocytes with iron) ;
• feces analysis for hidden blood, helminths and their eggs;
• organ x-rays chest;
• functional examination of the thyroid gland, thyroxine level.

At the second stage, additional laboratory, ultrasound, X-ray, endoscopic, histological studies are carried out, based on expediency.

Patients with unexplained pruritus should be reevaluated periodically, as the underlying itching may occur later.

Treatment

Most effective treatment itching is a treatment for the disease that caused it. Unfortunately, this is not always possible, therefore, symptomatic therapy is prescribed in such cases. General therapy includes the use of sedatives, antihistamines, mast cell membrane stabilizers (ketotifen), hyposensitizers (calcium preparations and sodium thiosulfate), sequestrants and enterosorbents, salicylates. A wide range of physiotherapeutic methods is used: electrosleep, adrenal inductothermy, cold and hot shower, sulfur and radon baths, sea bathing. External therapy plays an important role in the treatment of itching, but most local drugs are short-lived. They are prescribed in the form of powders, alcohol and aqueous solutions, shaken mixtures, pastes, ointments. For dry skin, antipruritic agents based on ointments and oils are more suitable. An antipruritic effect is possessed by: corticosteroid ointments, 5-10% anesthesin, 1-2% phenol, 5-10% diphenhydramine solution, water with table vinegar (3 tablespoons of vinegar per 1 glass of water), lemon juice, chamomile infusion (10 -20 flowers per 1 glass of water), etc.

Also, with itching of any genesis, it is necessary to eliminate provocative factors, such as dry skin, contact with irritating substances, degreasing the skin (coarse, alkaline soap), the use of certain products (alcohol, spices), as well as temperature changes in the environment.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that, despite the wide range of therapeutic methods and means, the treatment of itching remains a challenge.

Literature

1. Adaskevich V.P., Kozin V.M. Skin and venereal diseases. M .: Med. lit., 2006, p. 237-245.
2. Romanenko I.M., Kulaga V.V., Afonin S.L. Treatment of skin and venereal diseases. T. 2. M .: LLC "Medical Information Agency", 2006, p. 342-34.
3. Itchy skin. Acne. Urogenital chlamydial infection. Under. ed. E. V. Sokolovsky. SPb: Sotis. 1998, p. 3-67.

I. B. Mertsalova, Candidate of Medical Sciences

RMAPO, Moscow

The symptom is present with viral damage, most "childhood infections" are accompanied by specific lesions ranging from specks to blisters. Particularly unpleasant sensations are caused by chickenpox rash, in which elements in different stages development from speck to sore and crust. Itchy measles and rubella rashes, but less than chickenpox elements. Itching and scarlet fever caused by bacteria.

Is a symptom possible without visible rashes?

In the absence of skin rashes, the skin itches with jaundice, the symptom is due to the accumulation of bile pigments in the deep layers that irritate the nerve endings. At viral hepatitis And the functions of the liver are disrupted and bile enters the bloodstream, which leads to staining of the skin and an urgent need to itch.

A similar symptom is observed at the terminal stage. chronic hepatitis B and C, when cirrhosis of the liver dramatically reduces its functionality.

When is itchy skin the first sign of an infectious disease?

In HIV-infected people who are unaware of their status, itching in the absence of visible lesions may be the first sign of illness. It is assumed that one of the proteins that make up the surface envelope of the immunodeficiency virus directly irritates peripheral neurons.

With HIV, itchy skin appears at different periods of the disease, since immune disorders contribute to the attachment of a variety of skin infections, and in the AIDS stage, there can be widespread dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, which progressively increases in winter.

In the Clinic Medicine 24/7, they will quickly conduct an examination and make the correct diagnosis, which will allow you to immediately start treatment, and this is possible on holidays and weekends.

Treatment of itchy skin