Possible causes of burning, itching in the vagina - treatment. The whole body itches for a long time - what could it be?

Itching even in a small area of ​​the body is a very unpleasant sensation that causes significant discomfort to a person. But even worse is generalized itching - itching all over the body, which can begin both during the day and at night. This uncomfortable feeling, which occurs at the most inopportune moments, can significantly reduce a person’s quality of life, as well as cause insomnia, stress and neuroses. Therefore, it is not surprising that people suffering from severe itchy skin all over the body are trying to find effective and quick treatments. But in order to understand how to eliminate generalized skin itching, you must first determine its type and identify the causes that caused the unpleasant symptom.

Periodic itching all over the body: types and associated symptoms

To date, the mechanisms of itching have not been fully studied. Until relatively recently, official medicine equated this sensation with pain, but modern doctors are confident that itching is not a type of pain syndrome. The fact is that pain occurs in any part of the human body, and only the skin, corneas and mucous membranes of the eyes can itch. However, both pain and itching still have a common characteristic: both of these sensations arise due to the adverse effects of internal or external factors on the peripheral nervous system.

Based on the results of research on what factors can act as a “trigger” for the occurrence of itching, official medicine has identified 4 types of this sensation:

1. Neuropathic itching - occurs due to damage to areas of the brain responsible for skin sensitivity
2. Neurogenic itching - appears as a result of disruption of physiological processes in the body, but is not associated with malfunctions in the functionality of the nervous system
3. Pruritoceptive itching is one of the symptoms of skin diseases, inflammation of the dermis or allergies.
4. Psychogenic itching is a psychosomatic disorder that occurs as a result of severe stress, increased anxiety and some phobias.

Neuropathic and psychogenic itching in most cases is itching all over the body for no apparent reason. The unpleasant sensation is not accompanied by any external manifestations, and the skin looks clean and healthy. But with neurogenic and especially pruritoceptive itching, there are often other symptoms of the disease: redness of the skin, the appearance of rashes or swelling, coarsening and peeling of the upper layers of the epidermis.

Severe itching all over the body: reasons that can cause this sensation

There can be many reasons why body skin itches, ranging from relatively harmless allergies to deadly diseases. It is impossible to list all the factors that could theoretically cause periodic or constant generalized itching, since even in official medicine there is no comprehensive answer to this question. However, doctors know the most common causes of itchy body skin. These reasons are:
An allergic reaction to substances that enter the body with food. There are common cases where people complain of unpleasant itching sensations throughout the body after taking aspirin, niacin, excess vitamin C, etc.

IMPORTANT: As is obvious, generalized itching can be a symptom of a number of dangerous diseases. Therefore, itching all over the body that seems at first glance to be causeless is a good reason to consult a doctor.

Also worth mentioning is the so-called senile itch. Many people over the age of 60 begin to feel periodic itching all over the body, and there are no rashes or redness on the skin. Doctors believe that the reason why older people experience itching all over the body lies in age-related changes in the functioning of the endocrine, circulatory and excretory systems of the body.

Ways to eliminate itching

Unfortunately, there are no universal medications for itching. Since this uncomfortable sensation can be caused by a variety of reasons, the only way to treat it is to eliminate the cause. Therefore, people suffering from local or generalized itching first need to get tested and see a doctor so that he can determine the cause of the itching and prescribe treatment.

Among people who are far from medicine, there is an opinion that antihistamines (Suprastin, Erius, Loratadine, etc.) are effective for itching all over the body. However, this opinion is only partly true - these medications can help if the itching is caused by an allergic reaction of the body. In situations where the cause of this unpleasant sensation is diseases of the blood and internal organs, taking antihistamines will not give the desired effect.

• Compliance with diet
• Exclusion from the diet of hot, salty and spicy foods, as well as coffee and alcohol
• Taking motherwort and valerian tinctures
• Taking baths with sea salt and medicinal herbs
• Swimming in the sea.

In official medicine, an integrated approach is used to eliminate severe itching throughout the body, which is not accompanied by the appearance of rashes. To relieve the patient of this unpleasant symptom, the doctor prescribes medications to treat the disease causing the itching and physical therapy. The most effective physiotherapeutic methods for eliminating itching are light therapy (phototherapy) and acupuncture.

The most common reason for visiting a dermatologist is itching. There are cases when there are not even any rashes on the skin, but it itches so much that a person literally tears the skin. The suffering is further aggravated by the fact that everyone around them suspects a simulation or a mental disorder.

And, it would seem, it’s not a big problem - a person scratches himself, and that’s it, there are no specific skin diseases, let him be happy. But itching can indicate very serious problems, not to mention the fact that it greatly worsens the patient’s quality of life. Constant itching can lead to depression and even suicide attempts.

The most serious reason

The most important causes of itchy skin are malignant tumors. Itching may be one of the first signs of a tumor and appear before other symptoms. There have been cases where such a difference was up to 5 years!

Paraneoplastic (tumor-associated) skin itching can occur with any tumor, but more often occurs with carcinoma of the stomach, pancreatic cancer, lung, intestinal, brain, breast and prostate cancer. The whole body itches, but there are areas where the itching is more intense.

With Hodgkin's lymphoma, itching is also one of the most common accompanying symptoms and is observed in 25% of patients suffering from this disease.

If “thanks to the itch” you are examined on time, then cancer can be caught in the early, treatable stages.

Water: helps and provokes

Not as fatal as hidden tumors of internal organs, and perhaps the most common cause of itching is simple dry skin.

Modern hygiene requirements include daily showers. In principle, this is correct, but frequent use of detergents, especially in people whose skin is already prone to dryness (and this problem occurs in large numbers among the elderly), causes drying out of the skin. Soap washes away not only dirt, but also substances that retain moisture. As a result, there is itching, but no rashes.

Stop washing? Adherents of the “back-to-nature” concept, and to be honest, some colleagues (usually with a post-war education) advise exactly this. But bacterial and fungal infections will not keep you waiting, and the smell...

So you need to continue to maintain hygiene, but supplement it with special preparations that soften the skin and retain moisture in it (emollients). There are a huge number of them on the market, and they act in different ways; your doctor will tell you what exactly is right for a particular person.

And further. Some people simply don't drink enough water. Especially old people, whose sense of thirst may be dulled, and due to age, they may not remember or may not get what they want due to weakness (yes, that situation when there is no one to give a glass of water).

This leads to much more significant health problems than itchy skin, but also to that. People caring for the elderly should understand the situation and regularly provide water to their charges.

Unfortunately, as practice shows, such patients are often treated with disdain, believing that out of consultations with specialist doctors, only one is necessary - with a psychiatrist.

Yes, such a patient may also have a mental health disorder. But this does not happen as often as society imagines.

Etiology: announce the entire list

In addition to oncology, dry skin and mental status disorders, itchy skin without rashes can be caused by:

• endocrine diseases: hyper- and hypothyroidism, diabetes, hyper- and hypoparathyroidism;
• neurological diseases: cerebrovascular accidents, multiple sclerosis, peripheral nerve injuries, postherpetic neuralgia;
• hematological diseases;
• Sjögren's syndrome (a systemic disease associated with pathological dryness of the integument).

Therefore, you don’t need to go through it - in this case you definitely won’t succeed. You will only waste time, money and nerves. And the reason may remain unclear. Therefore, please leave the search for the cause to your doctor.

How will the doctor deal with this?

At the stage of collecting anamnesis, the doctor will definitely find out the following factors:

• onset (sharp, gradual);
• flow (continuous, intermittent);
• character (stabbing, burning).

It is also important: whether the itching is localized or “itches everywhere”, how long it is present and at what time it appears.

The doctor will try to detect provoking factors - is there a connection with the patient’s activity (profession, hobby), perhaps there has been unusual physical activity recently, new pets have appeared, etc. Trips and travel, traumatic situations in the recent past, play a role.

Also important is your sexual history and, finally, what you have already tried to treat yourself.

Remember! Applying a variety of “folk remedies” to scratched skin greatly complicates the establishment of a correct diagnosis and the possibility of carrying out certain tests, and contributes to the development of pustular and other complications.

Stages of initial examination

After collecting your medical history, the doctor will conduct a general examination, take your temperature, find out if you are suffering from excessive sweating, or if you have been particularly tired or losing weight lately.

He will examine the skin to see if its integrity is damaged or if there is a “jaundice” tint. He will look to see if there are any “fungal” manifestations on the nails or if the color of the eye sclera has changed.

Assess the state of the endocrine system (tremor, impaired thermoregulation, increased thirst should be on your guard) and the blood system (is there anemia, are the lymph nodes enlarged)

The doctor should also check the health of the gastrointestinal tract and genitourinary system. And finally, he needs to find out the state of the nervous system (do you have headaches, paresthesia, visual disturbances, sleep disturbances, hallucinations, etc.) However, this entire sequence can be adjusted during the examination.

The list of tests you will be sent for depends on your medical history and initial examination.

For example, if there is thirst and increased diuresis, you will need to check glycated hemoglobin; if there is heartburn or intolerance to some foods, you will be sent for an FGDS, etc.

I repeat that there is no need for initiative; choosing tests at random, and especially “everyone in a row,” will only confuse you.

Until we got to the doctor

If there is absolutely no possibility of examination, and the itching is intolerable, you can use over-the-counter antihistamines - according to the instructions and taking into account contraindications.

Important! Despite the fact that the instructions for most modern medications say that they have little effect on sleep, alertness, etc., you cannot drive while taking them unless there is a direct phrase “does not interfere with driving.” And the very condition of itching does not contribute to attentiveness while driving.

And yet, given the danger of possible pathology, the sooner you get to the doctor and begin the examination, the better!

Good health!

Leonid Shchebotansky

Photo thinkstockphotos.com

Itchy skin is a condition in which a person feels a burning desire to actively comb different areas of the skin.

How does itchy skin manifest?

Severe itching of the skin of the body may indicate various skin diseases. Itchy skin all over the body is sometimes a symptom of skin diseases - scabies , or may be an independent disease ( idiopathic itching ). A person experiences periodic or constant severe itching of the skin of the arms, legs, and other parts of the body. In areas that itch, scratching occurs, and the skin may turn red. Such a patient usually has dry body skin. Skin itching can occur constantly or intermittently, and depending on such manifestations, certain treatments for itching and redness of the body skin are practiced.

As a rule, the itching becomes more intense in the evening, and sometimes it is unbearable. Skin rash and itching, redness and itching of the skin are often combined. Some diseases cause severe itching and flaking of the skin.

Itching of the skin is divided into generalized (spreads throughout the body) and localized (at a certain place). Generalized itching can be felt by the patient constantly, while localized itching occurs periodically and develops at the site of the insect bite, as well as in the area of ​​the external genitalia, anus, and scalp.

There is another classification of skin itching. It is divided into physiological itching (caused by crawling and insect bites) and pathological itching (manifests itself in skin diseases, as well as in some general diseases and special conditions of the human body).

Why does skin itching occur?

The causes of itchy skin in children and adults are associated with skin diseases or general diseases of the body. Symptoms of skin itching in its generalized form appear when intolerant to certain types of food, when reacting to changes in temperature, when taking certain medications. Often generalized itching is a consequence of the development of severe diseases. In particular, there is skin itching when diabetes mellitus , hepatitis , malignant neoplasms etc. Signs of generalized skin itching are also present in some neuropsychiatric diseases. In older people, itching is a consequence of dry skin, which is noted due to decreased function of the sebaceous glands.

If a person has a question about why the skin of the face itches, or he tries to determine the causes of the itching of the skin of the legs, then we are talking about localized itching. Such manifestations are associated with local reasons. These could be insect bites, local allergic reactionsAnd , infestation with worms , (anal itching ), sexually transmitted diseases (itching in the genitals ), seborrhea (itchy scalp ) and etc.

Often the skin itches and peels due to the development of allergic reactions to certain irritants. An allergen can be food, medicine, or external irritants, due to the influence of which itchy red spots on the skin and itchy rashes appear on the skin.

Sometimes a woman periodically experiences itchy skin during pregnancy. As a rule, this phenomenon is typical for later stages of pregnancy. The skin itches most at night. This phenomenon is associated with serious changes in the functioning of the body of the expectant mother. In particular, changes in hormonal balance play an important role. Itching of the skin of the abdomen during pregnancy occurs due to severe stretching of the skin. However, it should be taken into account that various skin diseases may develop during pregnancy, so you should consult a doctor at the first suspicion.

How to get rid of itchy skin?

If the skin is itchy and itchy, the patient should first consult a dermatologist so that the specialist can determine what specific disease is causing the itchy skin. You should definitely consult a specialist if the itching of the skin continues for more than two weeks, or if very severe discomfort occurs due to itching. It is important to consult a doctor if itching of the skin spreads throughout the body, as well as if there are other symptoms - weakness, fatigue, etc.

Treatment of itchy skin on the body is carried out after accurately identifying the cause of its occurrence. Various methods are used to treat diseases that cause itchy skin. First of all, this is the treatment of skin itching with medications. However, you cannot use any ointment for itchy skin without first prescribing such a remedy by a doctor. You should not use folk remedies thoughtlessly, since only a specialist can determine the advisability of using any drug.

It is important to provide appropriate conditions for the normal regulation of metabolism in the body. This includes proper nutrition, a healthy lifestyle, and timely treatment of chronic foci of infection.

To reduce symptoms of severe itchy skin, avoid scratching areas that are very itchy. If scratching is still impossible to avoid, you should at least itch through clothing or some kind of fabric. It is best to cover the itchy area of ​​the body with a bandage or clothing. You can apply ointments and lotions prescribed by your doctor to the affected area.

Compresses prepared with soda solution can be applied to the affected area of ​​the body. The body can also be treated with a solution of 3-5% vinegar. If your whole body itches, you can take a bath with baking soda from time to time, the water should be warm.

You should choose your clothes very carefully. It is better that those items of clothing that are adjacent to the body are made of natural cotton, which will not irritate the skin. You need to wash your body with baby soap or other products that do not contain dyes or fragrances. After washing, the skin needs to be moisturized using special products. You should not use deodorants, perfumes, or cosmetics, which can also irritate itchy skin.

If there is itching of the skin of the legs, then treatment is carried out depending on the problem that caused this phenomenon. In case of fungal infection, antifungal drugs with local effects are used. Some traditional methods of treatment are also practiced. People suffering from itchy feet should choose their shoes very carefully, avoid buying shoes made from artificial leather, and also avoid foot deodorants.

If itching occurs in the anus and genitals, you should wash yourself at least twice a day with warm water and soap, and also wash thoroughly after bowel movements each time. For itching in the anus, ointments with an anti-inflammatory effect are used to relieve acute symptoms. But to carry out full treatment, you need to contact a proctologist.

People suffering from severe itching of the skin are usually very irritable, so at the same time they may be prescribed sedatives to calm the human nervous system.

A pregnant woman needs to tell her gynecologist about the symptoms of itching, after which the doctor will prescribe remedies to relieve the condition. It is recommended to take a shower several times a day, and then lubricate the body with moisturizing milk. Sometimes your doctor may recommend taking certain medications that stimulate the liver and gallbladder. Sometimes itching in pregnant women occurs due to the body's reaction to a certain food product. In this case, you need to find out what exactly caused this reaction and eliminate this product from your diet.

If the skin on the scalp is itchy, you must first determine the cause of this phenomenon. In some cases, all you need to do is carefully monitor your lifestyle to understand why your skin itches and itches.

Sometimes complex treatment is required to alleviate the condition. But in some cases, cosmetic procedures help to significantly improve the situation, for example, a properly selected mask for itchy scalp. If your scalp is itchy, you can also rinse with a decoction of onion peels or a solution of apple cider vinegar. A specialist will tell you more about how to get rid of scalp redness, itching and flaking.

Another problem that often worries women, and sometimes men, is itching of the facial skin. Creams and moisturizers do not always help in this case. Sometimes facial itching is associated with allergic reactions and other diseases. Therefore, if there is constant itching of the face, it is better to consult a doctor.

The habitual way of life of a modern woman is always full of affairs and worries. But sometimes illnesses happen, and for various reasons a woman can feel very unpleasant symptoms in the intimate area, and this leads to a lot of problems and can completely change her usual way of life.

The reasons for this delicate and unpleasant phenomenon are manifold. From ordinary dysbacteriosis to severe infectious diseases. It is important to identify the causes of discomfort in a timely manner and carry out the necessary treatment.
Today we will talk about solving a delicate problem that can cause itching in the intimate area in women, and we will find out the causes of this phenomenon.

It will also be very important to understand how to treat itching and burning in an intimate place in women effectively and safely.

Causes of itching of infectious origin

Among all the problems that can await a woman with itching or pain in the groin area, several main reasons can be identified:

• diseases caused by infectious agents;
• diseases of the endocrine system;
• diseases of other etiology.

Often these reasons are closely related to each other or follow from one another. In all cases, itching accompanies the inflammatory process. An irritating factor acts on the integumentary epithelium of the skin or mucous membrane, causing a chain reaction of the body, which is aimed at destroying the cause or limiting the focus.

Let's get acquainted with the main reasons according to the severity of the course and the risk of complications.

Sexually transmitted infections are a large group of infections that are sexually transmitted. According to various sources, these infections are quite widespread both in the CIS countries and abroad.

Chlamydia A disease caused by chlamydia. The most common sexually transmitted disease among all sexually transmitted diseases. It is more common in women and tends to become chronic. According to various sources, more than one billion people around the world are infected with chlamydia. Penetrating into the female body, chlamydia can be asymptomatic in 67% of women.

Among the signs, a sick woman may feel itching and burning in the intimate area, most often when urinating. Discharge with a yellowish tint and odor, pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen are also characteristic.

But the insidiousness of chlamydia is that a woman may not feel any symptoms, and the disease has already become chronic. In this case, a special laboratory analysis can identify the pathogen. Chlamydia in an advanced, untreated state can lead to infertility, the risk of ectopic pregnancy, and intrauterine infection of the fetus.

Trichomoniasis A disease that is not inferior to the previous disease in terms of prevalence among the population. The causative agent of this disease is Trichomonas vaginalis. According to the World Health Organization, about ten percent of people on earth are infected or suffer from trichomoniasis. The danger with this disease is, first of all, the risk of women developing infertility in the future and the abundance of pathological conditions during pregnancy.

Infection occurs through sexual contact and appears approximately 1-4 weeks after contact with a patient or carrier. In women, it manifests itself in the form of copious, yellow, foamy discharge with a specific odor. There are also symptoms such as itching, burning and pain, usually after urination. The external genitalia are swollen, hyperemic, macerations and foci of secondary suppuration easily appear. This provokes pain during sex.

Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterium called gonococcus. Once in the female body, it manifests itself as acute gonorrheal urethritis. Symptoms of the disease include burning and tickling in the distal urethra. Frequent urination is accompanied by pain. The discharge is purulent. Some women have no symptoms, but this does not mean that infection has not occurred.

The inflammatory process rises. In women, the inner lining of the uterus is affected in the form of endometritis, the fallopian tubes and ovaries in the form of salpingo-ovoritis. The urinary organs are affected in the form of urethritis and cystitis. The process becomes chronic and in the future increases the risk of developing infertility and adhesive disease of the pelvic organs.

Condylomas These unpleasant formations on the external genitalia occur as a result of infection with the human papillomavirus. In some women, the presence of warts is accompanied by discomfort in the area of ​​the vaginal opening and around the anal canal. It should be remembered that it is the human papillomavirus that has been proven to cause cervical cancer.

Genital herpes The herpes virus is present in the body of many people. For some, the disease manifests itself on the lips, usually after hypothermia. In other words, the virus is suppressed by the body’s immune system. When stress occurs or other diseases lower the body's immune defense, the herpes virus appears on the skin.

Genital herpes appears due to contact with a sick person or carrier. The woman begins to feel itching and burning in the intimate area. Then bubbles filled with liquid appear. In addition to the above symptoms, women are concerned about pain and redness. The infection, under favorable conditions, can penetrate the body and affect the reproductive organs.

Mycoplasmosis and ureaplasmosis This disease occurs in both men and women. The main symptom is pain and an unpleasant burning sensation in the urethra. Women become infected during sexual intercourse and due to the proximity of the vagina and urethra, the first unpleasant manifestations are felt in the urethra. The incubation period lasts ten days.

Women suffer from these ailments more than men. Mycoplasma affects the vagina, cervical canal and cervix. But more serious conditions can arise if a woman falls ill during pregnancy. Even if there are no active manifestations of the disease, pathology of the placenta may develop and, as a result, failure to carry the fetus to term. The chronic form causes secondary infertility.

As for ureaplasma, doctors and microbiologists cannot decide whether ureaplasma is a conditionally pathogenic microflora or whether it colonizes the mucous membrane after contact with a sick person. It is a small defective bacterium without a cell wall. The uniqueness of ureaplasma is that they cannot live and function without urea. Urea is a constituent chemical compound of urine. The clinical manifestation is similar to mycoplasma.

During the illness, burning, itching and rarely pain during urination appear. But the insidious thing is that the disease proceeds unnoticed and sometimes secretly, but, nevertheless, affects the female reproductive system. This entails problems with conception and further pregnancy.

Candidiasis - or thrush A disease caused by fungi of the genus Candida and affecting the mucous membrane of the female genital organs, and sometimes internal organs.

This disease is exclusively female, although men can contribute to its transmission. Fungi of the genus Candida live on the mucous membrane without damaging it, but under certain conditions they begin to multiply excessively and cause symptoms of candidiasis.

Conditions for the development of the disease:

• decreased immunity;
• changes in hormonal levels;
• change in vaginal acidity.

Yeast-like fungi affect not only the external genital organs, but also the internal genital organs and intestines. In severe cases, fungi affect the oral cavity, esophagus, and bladder.

Normally, the vagina has an acidic environment, which is what stops candida from multiplying. When these factors combine, a disease occurs. Also, normally in the vagina there is a mutually beneficial relationship between fungi, viruses, special bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis and lactobacilli.

When the balance in this peaceful microscopic kingdom is disturbed, problems arise. The main regulator is lactobacilli. They deprive Candida fungi of food. The main symptoms of thrush are thick, whitish vaginal discharge. Severe itching and burning. The mucous membrane of the vulva and vagina is bright red and bleeds easily. Pain may be present during urination and during sexual intercourse.

Bacterial vaginitis This pathological condition of the vaginal mucosa, as in the case of thrush, is caused by a violation of the symbiosis between opportunistic bacteria and lactobacilli. Symptoms include itching, burning and discharge. The color of the discharge varies from white to yellow-green.

The unpleasant smell of “raw fish” remains a specific symptom. This condition causes a woman a lot of trouble and there remains a risk of complications. Any inflammatory process in the vagina can lead to an ascending infection. Bacterial vaginitis is especially dangerous during pregnancy, as a special source of infection for the fetus.

Phthiriasis This is an infestation of pubic lice. The disease is extremely unpleasant and is associated with poor hygiene. But you can become infected by using shared hygiene items and towels. The traditional sexual route is not in last place in terms of methods of infection.

Causes of non-infectious itching

Allergic reaction to male ejaulant. In rare cases, a woman may experience a reaction if a man's seminal fluid enters the vagina. Manifests itself as a normal allergy in the form of redness , swelling and burning sensation.

Itching is also a frequent companion to allergies. Particular concern should be expressed if such a reaction occurs between a husband and wife who want to have children. This may occur if a man has consumed unusual foods or medications.

The above problems await young women of reproductive age.

But there is a special category of pathologies that a woman may have during the premenopausal period or during menopause. A woman's hormonal background changes. Some types of hormones are replaced by others, but under the influence of different factors, disruptions in the ratio of hormones occur, then the following conditions arise.

Kraurosis This is a formidable precancerous disease of the external genitalia of a woman. Its essence lies in the degenerative processes of the stratified squamous epithelium of the skin and mucous membrane with the subsequent development of atrophy. The reasons are not entirely known; age-related estrogen deficiency plays an important role.

A woman complains of severe dry skin of the external genital organs in the form of itching, discomfort and burning. Over time and the progression of the disease, soft tissues begin to undergo changes. The skin becomes thinner, easily injured and macerated. The labia are smoothed out and the entrance to the vagina can become critically narrowed. The process may eventually spread to the perineum. Diagnosis is made based on microscopic examination of a skin biopsy.

Dystrophic changes in the mucosa Does not apply to a precancerous condition of the previous cause. A woman during menopause produces little lubrication, so a woman may experience some discomfort and even itching in the intimate area. There are no changes visible to the naked eye or under a microscope on the skin and mucous membranes; it’s just that with age a lack of hormones occurs.

Malignant neoplasms E This is a large group of diseases that are accompanied not only by itching, but also by a number of other manifestations. Neoplasms can affect the vulva and vagina, as well as the cervix and the uterus itself.

Fistula tracts Narrow pathological tracts in soft tissues, interconnecting in some cases the vagina and rectum, vagina and urinary organs. The reasons are varied, mainly surgical operations, cesarean section, and trauma. In addition to discomfort, they are accompanied by inflammation.

The next group of causes of itching in the intimate area does not belong to any diseases, but is not inferior to them in frequency of occurrence among women.

Hygiene Improper hair removal in intimate areas. If this procedure is performed at home using a razor and foam, then some mistakes can cause burning and pain in the labia area.

Shaving against the hair growth with a not very sharp razor, ingrown hairs, skin microtraumas and their suppuration. Improper use of shaving products and after shaving. Repetition of such mistakes provokes irritation, inflammation and maceration of delicate skin.

Personal hygiene products in the form of panty liners and pads for use during menstruation. Manufacturers have filled supermarket shelves with a huge number of sanitary pads for every taste.

But sometimes, in the pursuit of cheapness, the quality of this product seriously suffers. Low quality materials have the ability to cause allergies. If this happens, you should immediately stop using this brand of product and consult a doctor.

Insufficient hygiene. For various reasons, an insufficient number of water treatments per day can cause burning and itching; in addition, there is a high risk of developing pathological conditions such as thrush and bacterial vaginitis.

Water procedures are especially relevant in summer. During this period, excessive sweating provokes the appearance of chafing and inflammation in the intimate area. Regularly changing pads and tampons, as well as using wet wipes for intimate care, will help cope with this problem.

Diseases of the digestive tract These include systemic intestinal diseases associated with impaired bowel movements. Intestinal dysbiosis can lead to thrush. Chronic and acute hemorrhoids, chronic anal fissures, fistulas, epithelial coccygeal ducts.

These are diseases that are treated by a surgeon-proctologist. All of them bring suffering to a person and are manifested by pain, bleeding and itching in the perineal area.

Underwear The poor quality of the fabric from which underwear is made causes itching and irritation. Synthetic fabrics do not absorb sweat, and natural vaginal discharge thereby contributes to the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria.

In addition, the greenhouse effect plays an important role here, when an increased temperature is created in the intimate area. Narrow, uncomfortable styles of underwear injure the skin and mucous membranes.

Soaps and hygiene gels - allergies often manifest themselves to the chemical components of shower gels, soaps, lotions and deodorants. Pads, tampons, and toilet paper can also act as allergens.

Contraceptives The most common type of protection is a condom. However, the material from which these things are made causes an immediate reaction in some women, manifested by itching and burning.

Lubricants, spermicides, diaphragms - all of these can cause unwanted reactions. The undesirable effect occurs directly during the use of a condom or immediately after sexual intercourse.

Diets Passion for diets in which one type of product is in the lead and a lack of balanced nutrition reduces the amount of vitamins consumed. This adversely affects the immune system. Vitamins of group A are directly involved in the regeneration of the skin epithelium and mucous membranes. A lack of vitamins in the diet causes a disruption in the structure of the integumentary layer, resulting in itching and burning.

Senile itching Very often the cause of itching is age-related changes, in this case it can be recommended to take sedatives, tranquilizers that improve liver function, take vitamins A and E. Soften the skin with good creams. In this case, Ovestin suppositories are prescribed.

Risk factors

There are several body conditions that can contribute to the development of almost all of these problems in the intimate area.

1. Diabetes mellitus is a serious metabolic disease with impaired absorption of carbohydrates. In this case, local immunity is impaired. In diabetes, bacterial infections, mainly of coccal etiology, develop faster, causing complications . Also, itching and burning in the intimate area can be an immediate symptom of diabetes.
2. Allergic reactions are a general sessibility of the body to an allergen, which provokes the appearance of discomfort in the perineal area.
3. Overwork syndrome is a long-term stressful situation that causes emotional tension and fatigue, and reduces immunity. But in addition to problems with the immune system, depression, increased anxiety and restlessness can cause paresthesia, including in the genital area. Itching in various parts of the body is often a symptom of mental disorders.
4. Diseases of the thyroid gland, insufficiency of liver and kidney function, anemia of various origins. All these pathological conditions not only change the normal functioning of the entire body, but also directly affect the condition of the skin and mucous membranes.

Itching in the intimate area during pregnancy

Normally, a woman expecting a baby should not experience itching or burning. Sharp changes in hormonal levels provoke the proliferation of fungi of the genus Candida and symbiotic bacteria. Therefore, if you experience unpleasant sensations, you should not wait for self-healing, but you should urgently consult your doctor.

The second factor is the reduced immunity of the poor mother. According to statistics, up to 85% of pregnant women suffer from candidiasis. When the placenta forms at the beginning of the second trimester, there will be more discharge. It is necessary to monitor the color, consistency and smell of these secretions. In case of an unpleasant odor, also contact a specialist. The expectant mother must take special care to maintain personal hygiene; this is very important for her health and the health of the baby.

What to do if itching occurs

Contact a gynecologist. The doctor will be able to professionally evaluate the emerging changes in the skin and mucous membranes. Assess the type of disease and stage. To confirm, he will order the necessary laboratory tests:

1. A vaginal smear allows you to assess the state of the microflora and identify the pathogen.
2. Cytological examination is an assessment of not only the presence or absence of microorganisms, but also the condition of the integumentary epithelial cells.
3. Biopsy is a more in-depth analysis with the study of cells of the integumentary epithelium of the skin and mucous membranes with the submucosal layer. This diagnostic method is used to diagnose neoplasms.
4. General tests - clinical analysis of blood and urine, as well as biochemical analysis to identify dysfunction of the liver and kidneys.
5. Detection of hormone levels – reproductive and thyroid hormones.
6. PCR is a type of analysis for the presence of a specific pathogen in a smear.

Treatment of itching in the intimate area in women

If the cause of itching in the intimate area is not dangerous bacteria that can cause serious complications and require long-term hospital treatment, then these problems can be eliminated using a few simple rules:

1. Keep your genitals perfectly clean. Carry out water procedures at least three times a day. If this is not possible due to circumstances, then use wet wipes.
2. Replace hygiene products that cause irritation. Choose panty liners and tampons with extreme caution, and do not buy low-grade, cheap items. Replace hygiene products at least every two hours.
3. Wear underwear made of cotton fabric. Choose a comfortable style in the right size.
4. Make baths with antibacterial medicinal herbs.
5. If your doctor does not prohibit it, then douche with antiseptic substances for the skin and mucous membranes.
6. Use skin soothing products after shaving.
7. Avoid lack of vitamins and microelements in your food. Choose diets that comply with all the principles of rational nutrition.
8. Maintain good sexual hygiene.

We treat itching of the intimate area at home with folk remedies

Simple and effective folk methods can relieve the unpleasant sensations of burning and itching in the intimate area in women.

Before you start using traditional methods, you must establish the exact cause of the itching and begin treatment prescribed by your doctor. Many folk remedies complement basic drug therapy well and are effective in relieving itching.

In a liter of boiling water, dilute one teaspoon of soda, cool so that the solution is pleasantly warm. The resulting solution should be used to douche the vagina twice a day - morning and evening. This method will relieve itching, but it will not get rid of the causative agent of the unpleasant condition.

Aloe pulp

To treat, you need to grind the aloe leaves in a meat grinder and soak cotton swabs in the resulting pulp. After
douching, in order for the vaginal mucosa to heal, you need to insert tampons soaked in aloe juice at night.

Iodine solution with added salt

For douching, you need to prepare a solution in one liter of boiled water. Add soda to the water - 1 teaspoon, salt - 1 teaspoon and iodine - 10 drops. You need to douche with the resulting medicinal solution in the morning and evening. This procedure has a combined effect of medicinal substances on the vaginal mucosa: washing out fungi, drying and disinfection.

Decoctions and infusions of chamomile and calendula

To prepare a healing decoction, add 2 tablespoons of chamomile to 200 milliliters of water and boil. After this, remove from the heat and leave for 20 minutes. We use this decoction for douching in the morning and evening.

In infusions of medicinal herbs calendula and chamomile, it is very good to take sitz baths; you can also add a little sea salt to these baths. This simple procedure is very helpful in dealing with itching. After taking a bath, you need to dry your genitals well.

Basil decoction

Pour a tablespoon of basil into two glasses of water and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes. Infuse the resulting decoction for 30 minutes, filter and take orally for treatment. You need to drink 100 milliliters four times a day. This remedy helps the body cope well with various types of infections.

Yogurt and dairy products

To restore and normalize the vaginal mucosa, it is necessary to eat various fermented milk products, such as yogurt, kefir, as they contain beneficial bacteria. It is very important to eat fermented milk products while taking antibiotics. In addition to yogurt, it is useful to take various supplements, such as acidophilus or lactobacilli.

Drug treatment

To effectively treat itching in an intimate place in women, folk remedies are used in complex therapy with mediants; this approach gives excellent results and allows one to cope well with the disease.

Ointments

1. Boromenthol is recommended when a similar symptom, namely itching, occurs during menopause, with age-related changes, kidney disease, dermatitis, diabetes mellitus and cholestasis.
2. Nezulin - this ointment has good antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.
3. Gistan - has a good antiallergic and antifungal effect.
4. Fenistil - this ointment relieves allergic symptoms.

Pills

Treatment with tablets is prescribed in the hospital based on the reasons that caused the discomfort. For the following diseases, you need to take the following medications:

• Trichopolum - for trichomoniasis;
• Suprastin, Claritin - for allergic reactions;
• Herpevir, Acyclovir - for herpes;
• Metronidazole - for gardnarella.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it should be recalled that women’s health directly depends on a woman’s common sense and compliance with simple rules of personal hygiene. The main function of women is to bear and give birth to healthy offspring. Itching in the intimate area in women and the causes of its occurrence can cause serious harm to the body. Sometimes, due to health problems, women remain infertile, this can poison life forever and destroy a marriage.

If a sensitive problem arises, immediately consult a doctor who will prescribe effective and safe treatment for you.

Itching of the skin of the body is a natural signal of malfunctions in the body. If your whole body or a specific area itches, there are red rashes or other additional abnormalities, consult a doctor immediately. The doctor will be able to almost immediately determine the cause and tell you how to relieve skin itching at home in your case, prescribing appropriate effective medications and treatment methods. This post talks about skin diseases that cause itching. Study the material to get an idea of ​​what people who complain about this symptom most often encounter.

The most common causes of itchy body skin

Everyone experiences skin itching and discomfort differently and has a different range of associated phenomena. Let us consider in general terms the most common complaints received from patients to dermatologists, listing the provoking diseases.

Features of psychogenic itching

Many people are familiar with the condition when itching occurs in different parts of the body due to nervousness. The root of the problem is mental disorders, for example, depression (most often), severe one-time or chronic stress, increased anxiety and ordinary fatigue. Such a phenomenon as psychosomatics has already been scientifically proven, that is, in the presence of strong negative emotions, health problems begin.

The second name for senile itching is senile itching. It turns out that exactly half of people in old age, namely after 70 years, suffer from dry skin. This causes itching. Overheating of the body from the desire to dress warmer, dry air in the home, frequent water procedures - all this increases the likelihood of problems.

Itching is caused precisely by dry skin of the body, which is unable to retain the required amount of moisture, and malfunctions of the sebaceous glands are observed. It is also worth noting that the body of older people is hypersensitive to histamine, and the ability of the dermis to regenerate normally decreases. The situation is aggravated by a diet poor in nutrients and background depression. All factors combined spoil the lives of pensioners.

Itching and rash on the skin

There can be many reasons for itchy skin with a rash; only a doctor can determine for sure. This combination indicates an infectious, skin or allergic disease. A person notices that spots appear on his body and itch. These formations can have different types - look like bubbles, spots, nodules, red bumps, pustules, blisters, crusts, erosions, areas of peeling and hyperpigmentation. Any pimples and sores on the body should not be touched, much less picked off. It is better to treat the skin with the product prescribed by the doctor and take medications internally.

If the intestines are colonized by worms, a person’s anus and adjacent tissues begin to itch, and this unpleasant sensation also spreads to different areas.

Scabies

It is known that scabies, which manifests itself as itchy skin on the hands, elbows, abdomen, chest, buttocks and thighs, develops from the activity of microscopic mites.

Pediculosis

If your head itches severely, mainly in the occipital and temporal regions, then lice may well be suspected. In severe cases, lice penetrate the eyelashes and eyebrows. The disease develops worst in people with long hair.

Demodicosis

clothes itch

Microorganisms living in the folds of clothing cause the so-called body itch. In this case, problem areas are localized in the area of ​​tight clothing.

Ftiriaz

With pediculosis pubis (another name is phthiriasis), skin itching is also a concern, mainly felt in the groin. In this case, eyelashes, eyebrows, ear shell, beard, and mustache are sometimes affected.

Itching due to skin fungal infections

When the fungus multiplies on the skin of the body and the pathogens act in the stratum corneum, pityriasis versicolor, erythrasma, and actinomycosis are diagnosed.

Ringworm, or scientifically called microsporia, can also cause unbearable itching. Similar discomfort on the epidermis is provoked by dermatophytosis; this group includes trichophytosis, favus and epidermophytosis.

Candidiasis is mainly affected by overweight people and people who neglect basic hygiene measures.

Itching due to vitamin deficiency

When the body is in a state of vitamin deficiency, the skin dries and itches. It happens that a person lacks important vitamin A, vitamin C, or a whole range of B vitamins. The skin may suffer if there is not enough zinc. Vitamin deficiency also causes acne and boils.

Itching due to diabetes mellitus

In diabetes mellitus, a person has a critically increased percentage of glucose in the blood. One of the side effects of the disease is genital itching, as candidiasis develops on the mucous membranes. Diabetic neuropathy results in an itchy scalp. Generalized itching is uncommon in diabetics and usually occurs due to metabolic disruptions that occur from diabetes and kidney problems. An endocrine disorder may be accompanied by itching, burning, and tingling of the skin of the body.

Itching from allergies

Contact dermatitis

An allergic reaction usually looks like contact skin dermatitis and develops after the use of cosmetics or medications externally, contact with fabrics, jewelry and chemicals.

Eczema

Eczema is usually diagnosed in people who are prone to allergic reactions. The disorder is formed due to chronic diseases, occurs as a consequence of vaccination or a side effect of medications, is a consequence of stress or consumption of allergenic foods.

Hives

Urticaria of allergic etiology occurs as a reaction to dust, intolerance to drugs and allergenic products. It happens that the body itches and red spots appear after insect bites or sudden temperature changes. Cold allergies also apply here. Often, urticaria is accompanied by itching and redness of the skin.

The chronic form of allergy is referred to as atopic dermatitis.

Itching during female menopause

Hormonal changes provoke many different disruptions in the body. Often, women during menopause note genital itching.

Itching after insect bites

When a person is bitten by insects, appropriate treatment must be carried out. Due to the presence of fleas in an apartment or house, itchy skin may bother you at night.

Itching and liver disease

When a person is diagnosed with liver disease or the biliary tract is affected, a whole range of disorders can be expected. Most often, cholestasis, cirrhosis, cholangitis, stones, obstructions, tumors and oncology, giardiasis are reflected on the skin.

Itching due to immunodeficiency

If a person is infected with the immunodeficiency virus, then he may be bothered by itching. Almost all cases of such ailment are associated with infections that develop against the background of decreased immune activity. The skin can become very itchy and dry, all of which worsens in winter.

Itching after drinking

After alcohol, the skin itches and red spots form - a common picture, since this poison affects the entire body. The body reacts negatively to ethyl alcohol itself and toxic additives, the liver functions poorly or allergies develop due to encoding.

Itching after water procedures

Itchy skin after a shower is caused by poor-quality water, an unsuitable product (soap, gel) for your skin type, or a hidden disease.

Itching after eating

Itching immediately after eating occurs as a reaction to food and drinks consumed. Review your diet to see if it contains potentially allergenic foods or switch to a hypoallergenic diet.

Itching along with nausea

If severe itching occurs along with nausea, this may indicate a disease. For example, this combination is observed in allergies, glomerulonephritis, scarlet fever, cholecystitis.

In most patients with dermatological or other disorders, itching becomes worse in the evenings.

In addition to the examples discussed, there are other reasons. Psoriasis, neurodermatitis, folliculitis, brain diseases - these disorders can also occur in combination with itching.

How is itchy skin treated?

If you have itching and rashes on your face and neck, shins or feet, back or any other part of the body, then you don’t need to wait for the problem to become widespread. You should decide as soon as possible how to treat itchy body skin. Medicine for itching of body skin is selected strictly individually, depending on the cause and state of health.

Ointments and creams for itchy skin

Below is a list and brief description of popular creams and ointments that can be purchased at a pharmacy on the advice of a doctor.

Menthol ointments

Contains menthol:

• Star;
• Boromenthol;
• Bom Benguet;
• Menthol oil.

The drugs cool, distract, relieve pain for mild allergic itching, insect bites, neurodermatitis, atopic dermatitis.

D-Panthenol

The ointment can be used from birth, relieves irritation and improves regeneration processes. Used for itching due to dermatitis and skin restoration after injury. The product helps quickly treat sunburn, relieves dryness, eliminates diaper rash and diaper dermatitis.

Nezulin

The drug in the form of a gel-cream is made from plant materials and works as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent. Without hormonal additives, suitable for children. Treats scratches, cracks, helps eliminate dryness and itching, and helps with insect bites.

Gistan

The cream contains plant substances and the antihistamine element Bitulin. The drug is intended to relieve skin itching due to photodermatosis, insect bites, neurodermatitis, and urticaria. Not recommended during pregnancy and pregnancy.

Triderm

The product copes with severe itching, is effective for dermatosis, allergies, neurodermatitis, eczema, and pityriasis versicolor. Helps relieve inflammation associated with secondary infection. You cannot use the ointment without a doctor’s prescription, since the drug is hormonal. Triderm is contraindicated before 2 years of age and in the 1st trimester of pregnancy.

Fenistil

A product with an antihistamine effect. Works well against insect bites, chickenpox rashes, itchy dermatosis and urticaria. Along with itching, redness and swelling are eliminated.

Sinaflan

The ointment is used in short courses, as it contains a hormone. The drug helps to almost instantly relieve itching and swelling from sunburn and insect bites. The product works well against itching and burning caused by eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and allergic reactions.

Psilo-balm

The drug is prescribed for itching from urticaria, contact dermatitis, sunburn. Skin irritations can be treated with an age limit - after 2 years.

Also in complex therapy to combat itchy skin, the following may be prescribed:

• Zyrtec;
• Heparin ointment;
• Proctosan;
• Candide;
• Nystatin;
• Miconazole;
• Benzyl bezoate;
• Nizulin;
• Bactroban;
• Lorinden;
• Pimafucin;
• Miconazole;
• Clotrimazole;
• Sulfuric ointment;
• Oxolinic ointment;
• Viferon;
• Flucinar;
• Infagel;
• Dermovate;
• Prednisolone ointment;
• Hydrocortisone ointment;
• Oxycort;
• Hepatrombin;
• Proctosedyl;
• Levosin;
• Fucidin;
• Belo-Salik;
• Desitin;
• Dropalen;
• Advantan;
• Elokom.

If you need to take pills along with external treatment, the doctor will tell you about this and choose the right drug himself.

Usually a person cannot determine what causes body itching, so it is obvious that with such a problem in any manifestation, you need to go to the hospital as quickly as possible. Self-diagnosis, as well as self-medication with folk remedies and herbs or pharmaceutical medications chosen at random, can be useless and possibly dangerous to life and health. This is especially true when it comes to skin problems in young children or women during pregnancy. In order not to cause progression of the disease and deterioration of the condition in a child or adult, it is necessary to begin complex treatment with traditional drugs under the supervision of a doctor in a timely manner.