Let's determine the very concept of "itching." Someone decided to call it a desire to itch. Somewhat funny definition, but in a different way. Itching (especially if it is severe) gives a person a lot of trouble. You cannot calmly go outside, you cannot sleep, you are constantly nervous and, as a result, bring yourself to nervous exhaustion. Sometimes the itching of the body can be so strong that the skin combs to the blood, scratching heals for a long time, leaving then life-long scars.
Itching of the skin of the body has not been fully investigated. Although there is already knowledge about what role nerve endings play for the skin, why histamine is released, sometimes causing itching throughout the body, and what are the causes of such unpleasant sensations.
First of all, it should be noted that itching is not a disease, but a symptom. Therefore, the doctor always tries to find the cause of what caused itching throughout the body, or in separate areas. Of course, it is impossible to do this only with a visual inspection alone. Now we are talking about generalized itching (itching throughout the body). There is also another form of manifestation - localized (individual sites).
So, what can cause itching all over the body?
- diabetes (after treatment, the symptoms usually disappear);
- jaundice (can occur secretly, without particularly noticeable changes in the skin, and only a blood test will give a true picture);
- liver disease (impaired function of this organ, often itching appears as a sign of liver cirrhosis, including from alcohol);
- kidney disease (the cause may be a delay in the removal of nitrogen toxins in the natural way with their subsequent removal through the skin);
- lymphogranulomatosis (deviations in the functioning of the lymphatic system, in addition to the sensation of itching, the lymph glands increase, an appeal to a hematologist is required);
- tumors in the digestive tract;
- nervous disorders;
- the presence of parasites;
- vegetative-vascular dystonia (usually manifested in autumn and spring, seasonally);
- allergy (to poplar fluff, pollen of a flowering plant, dust, chemicals, etc.);
- senile itching (liver function fails with age, malfunctions, glands (sebaceous and sweaty) work worse, skin is drier and prone to peeling);
- reaction to individual drugs;
- pregnancy.
Before starting treatment for itching, you need to find out exactly the cause of its occurrence. Visit a dermatologist, he will conduct the necessary examination, prescribe tests and only then establish a diagnosis. Be prepared for the fact that you will need to visit a number of other specialists. Depending on the results, either local treatment or systemic treatment will be prescribed. In no case do not begin self-medication. Preparations used before going to the doctor can make diagnosis difficult.
Local treatment usually comes down to treating the skin with a three percent vinegar solution and using powders with a high talc content. Perhaps other drugs (ointments, suspensions) will be prescribed.
With general treatment, when itching throughout the body is caused by a high level of histamine in the skin, Suprastin, Erius, Tavegil, Zirtek, Loratidine (these drugs are antihistamines) are prescribed. If itching has appeared on nervous soil, sedatives are usually prescribed (to calm the nervous system): sodium bromide, tincture or Valerian tablets, bromocamfara, Valocordin, Valosedan, Ankylosing spondylitis, motherwort herb, Passiflora grass.
What to do if itching appears throughout the body, but there is no way to immediately consult a doctor? Do not itch, no matter how you wish (irritation will only intensify, there will be a risk of infection). Do not take a hot bath (the skin will dry out, itching will become stronger).
⢠If your skin is dry, use products that do not include soap.
⢠Use tinctures of calendula, chamomile, woodlice, mint when taking a shower. They act on the skin soothingly and relieve inflammation. You can use cold compresses after a shower.
⢠In the bathroom with warm (not hot, namely warm) water, add half a glass of apple cider vinegar and soak in this bath for 15 minutes.
⢠Rub the body with potato juice, it will relieve inflammation.
And do not delay with a consultation with a doctor. Be healthy!