Is itching a precursor to cancer?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on September 10, 2024
00:00
00:00

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.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
52sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
48sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
39sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
1min 2sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
32sec home-news-image

Clinical symptoms of pruritus

Pruritus is a common skin disease characterized by a strong itching sensation. Patients may also exhibit various other symptoms such as scabs, eczema, hyperpigmentation, and lichenification of the skin. These are typically clinical signs that emerge from intense itching and frequent scratching. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention and treatment promptly for pruritus. It is also advisable to avoid alcohol and spicy, irritating foods.