Cures for Itchy Skin
The medical term for itchy skin is pruritus. It may be accompanied by a rash and can be caused by a skin disorder such as psoriasis. It could also be an allergic reaction, a side effect of a drug or an inflammation from an illness, a fungal infection or a parasite such as scabies or lice. After the cause is determined there are medications and methods to treat and eliminate itchy skin.
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Medications
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In the case of a fungal infection such as athlete's foot, jock itch or ringworm, an anti-fungal medication is recommended. There are over-the-counter remedies to clear the infection. For lice or scabies, there are also over-the-counter preparations for eliminating these parasites. Oral antihistamines such as Benadryl and topical hydro-cortisone creams or lotions are helpful for relieving itchy skin from allergies and hives.
Moisture
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For some conditions, your doctor may recommend that you apply a topical medicated ointment or cream, then cover your skin with a moist dressing to help your skin absorb the medication. Cool compresses can also soothe your skin and relieve the itch. A cool bath with oatmeal or baking soda can also provide some relief. Applying a moisturizer to dry skin can relieve itching.
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Mild Soap
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If your condition is the result of an allergy to some soap or detergent, you should choose a bath soap that does not contain perfumes or dyes. Using an unscented, mild detergent for your laundry may also be necessary. Rinsing your clothing, bedding and towels for an extra cycle may also help. You may find it necessary to avoid harsh cleaning products, perfumes and some cosmetics. There are hypo-allergenic products available in such cases.
Severe Cases
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In extreme cases, your doctor may need to prescribe a medication that is stronger than those you can purchase over the counter. You may need a corticosteroid cream to relieve itching from allergies. An example is poison ivy. While there are medications you can buy to relieve the itch until the rash has cleared, some people are more sensitive to the plant and need prescription medications.
Prevention
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Avoiding the substances that cause your condition is the best way to prevent the problem. If you are allergic to certain fabrics, such as wool, you should wear clothing that does not irritate your skin. You may have an allergy to certain metals, such as nickel, gold or silver. In those cases you may not be able to wear jewelry.
Other Conditions
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Sometimes itchy skin may be the result of some other condition or disease. Examples are celiac disease, the inability to absorb wheat products, liver disease, iron deficiency, thyroid problems and kidney failure. With these conditions, you may have itching over your entire body. The itching should be relieved when the underlying condition is treated.
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