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Pruritus
What should I do if I have skin allergies and itching?
Skin allergies and itching require actively searching for the triggering factors, i.e., allergens. Identifying what has irritated the skin and caused the allergic reaction is crucial, then avoiding further contact to prevent recurrence or worsening of the condition. If the allergy is triggered by consuming fish, shrimp, seafood, tropical fruits, etc., it is important to avoid eating similar foods in the future. If the use of certain cosmetics or skin care products causes allergies, avoid using other products containing the same ingredients. If the allergy is caused by certain medications, typically appearing within four days to a month of usage, it is advised to switch medications and avoid taking the same one again. For more severe allergic symptoms, such as significant itching, oral antihistamines like loratadine, desloratadine, cetirizine, and ebastine can be taken. Topical anti-itch medications like calamine lotion can be used, and for more severe conditions, topical corticosteroids or tacrolimus ointment can be applied. If symptoms do not improve or worsen with the aforementioned treatments, short-term oral steroids might be considered to manage the condition. (Note: Medication should be used under the guidance of a physician.)
What causes postpartum breastfeeding skin itching?
During the postpartum breastfeeding period, some mothers may experience skin itching, which mainly depends on the cause. It is generally due to changes in physical constitution and other factors, such as sweat rash, prickly heat, and unexplained papules and hives. During breastfeeding, the most common cause of skin itching is sweat rash. Sweat rash occurs when the body sweats after childbirth, and patches appear in the skin folds, sometimes merging into a large area. At this time, it is important to keep the skin dry and topical antibiotics can be used for local application. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)
Can I eat grapes if I have itchy skin?
Eating grapes is generally acceptable for skin itchiness. Grapes have a neutral nature and a sweet-sour taste. They are rich in glucose and fruit acids, and contain potassium, iron, phosphorus, calcium, and other trace elements as well as an abundance of vitamins. Traditional Chinese Medicine states that grapes have effects such as replenishing qi and blood, strengthening muscles and bones, generating seminal fluid, enhancing spleen and appetite, and promoting diuresis and reducing swelling. Clinically, there are very few cases of grape consumption causing allergic skin itchiness.
Foods to avoid for itchy skin
Skin itching is a common symptom in dermatological diseases. There are many diseases that can cause skin itching, such as eczema, allergic dermatitis, skin allergies, tinea diseases, etc. These diseases require the avoidance of many foods. It is advised not to eat hair-producing and spicy irritating foods, such as onions, ginger, garlic, sea fish, kelp, etc., and also to avoid alcohol and smoking, which are all very important.
Causes of itchy skin on the lower legs in summer
In summer, if you experience itching on the lower legs, it's important to consider summer dermatitis. Summer dermatitis is a seasonal skin disorder caused by hot weather, commonly affecting adults' limbs, especially the lower legs. The outer side of the lower legs, or the front part, typically shows symptoms. The characteristics of the lesion include localized bright red erythema with dense, medium-sized papules. Scratching can lead to scratch marks, scabs, and significant discoloration, but generally, there is no erosion or exudation. The condition is clearly related to temperature and climate, so it typically improves when the temperature drops, and can be cured by autumn or winter. It is important to maintain a living environment with good ventilation and cooling, wear loose clothing, and keep the skin clean and dry. Treatment mainly involves topical remedies, including applying calamine lotion and washing with decoctions of traditional Chinese medicine.
How to treat high blood sugar and itchy skin?
Skin itching caused by high blood sugar requires a clear understanding of the cause of the itching. On one hand, it is mainly associated with elevated blood sugar levels, and on the other hand, it may be related to peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes. A third consideration is secondary fungal or bacterial skin infections caused by high blood sugar. For these conditions, the first step is to test blood sugar levels. If a significant increase in blood sugar is found, it is important to adjust the existing sugar-lowering plan promptly to bring blood sugar levels within an ideal range. At the same time, medications that nourish the nerves, including cobamamide and vitamin B2, can be taken. For patients with secondary skin infections, appropriate antibacterial or antifungal ointments may be given. It is also important to maintain skin cleanliness and avoid eating spicy and irritating foods. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a physician.)
Is itching a precursor to cancer?
Most cases of skin itching are not directly related to cancer. Itchy skin is mainly associated with allergies or dry skin, and a reduction in the secretion of sebaceous glands. Some patients experience itching due to long-term diabetes, and it is most commonly seen in the elderly. Some elderly people also develop chronic itching due to frequently bathing in hot water. Once itchy skin occurs, treatment at the dermatology department of a formal hospital with anti-allergy medication is generally sufficient. Avoid bathing in overly hot water, spicy and irritant foods, and staying up late. After bathing, it is advisable to use a moisturizer extensively. While this condition generally has no correlation with cancer, some patients diagnosed with cancer may also experience itching, though it is not related to the simple presence of itchy skin.
Can alcohol intoxication cause skin itching?
Alcohol intoxication does not cause itching. However, patients who are allergic to alcohol may experience itching, rashes, and other symptoms. Alcohol intoxication usually occurs when drinking excessively, surpassing the body's metabolic capacity and leading to intoxication. Symptoms include restlessness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and severe cases may lead to consciousness disorders. In cases of alcohol intoxication, inducing vomiting can be a method to alleviate the condition. This can be done by using a finger or a tongue depressor to stimulate the pharynx, causing vomiting to expel stomach contents and reduce alcohol absorption. It is advisable not to drink excessively, drink plenty of water, eat fresh vegetables and fruits, and it is best to abstain from alcohol for the benefit of your health.
Characteristics of skin itching caused by tumors
Skin itching caused by tumors is generally stubborn and persistent, but there are no visible symptoms on the surface of the skin. This is because the biological factors released by tumor cells stimulate the surrounding nerves, leading to itching. For example, malignant lymphomas, cancers of the external genitalia, and cancers in female patients all exhibit itching during their progression. Beyond skin itching, some patients may experience varying degrees of skin damage, including the appearance of erythema, blisters, or erosion. If these areas become infected, they can lead to skin breakdown and exudation. In addition to these symptoms, some patients may also experience skin thickening and scaling, as well as itching of the nose, anus, and genitals. There are many types of tumors that can cause itching, such as tumors on the forehead, rectum, colon, vagina, cervix, prostate, etc. Therefore, if a patient experiences symptoms of skin itching, it is crucial to maintain proper skin cleanliness promptly.
Can I eat kelp if I have itchy skin?
Patients with itchy skin can generally consume kelp. Kelp is a type of seaweed that is low in fat and rich in trace elements like iodine, calcium, and copper. It is highly alkaline and helps maintain the body's acid-base balance. From the perspective of Chinese medicine, kelp has the effects of resolving phlegm, softening hard lumps, clearing heat, and promoting urination. Clinically, it is very rare to see patients allergic to kelp. Therefore, patients with itchy skin can generally eat kelp, unless they are absolutely allergic to it. However, since kelp is cold in nature, it is generally not suitable for people with a cold stomach, pregnant women, or breastfeeding women to consume in large quantities.