Diseases of the skin of the face in the elderly. Causes and the most effective treatments for senile itching of the skin in the elderly

Every person has more and more health problems with age. This is not surprising, because irreversible changes occur in the body associated with the natural aging process. One of the symptoms that causes a lot of trouble for the elderly is senile itching of the skin.

What it is?

Senile itching is a phenomenon that occurs in almost half of people over the age of 60–70. The skin can itch for various reasons: itching can be a symptom of an internal disease or occur in old age due to changes in the structure of the skin. Unpleasant sensations can be constant or periodic, intensify at night and after taking a bath or shower.

When trouble significantly reduces the quality of life, the patient goes to see a dermatologist. Not finding rashes on the skin, the doctor definitely recommends being examined by various specialists for internal diseases.

The skin is part of the excretory system: metabolic products are excreted through the skin, sebaceous, sweat ducts. If a person has an unhealthy pancreas, kidney or liver, then toxic metabolic products, accumulating in the skin, cause an unpleasant sensation of itching. Only after a complete examination of the patient and the exclusion of internal pathologies (diseases of the digestive organs, diabetes mellitus, oncology), the doctor can conclude that in this case we are talking about senile itching, which is caused by age-related skin changes.

Senile itching of the skin in the elderly: causes and provoking factors

The skin of the elderly undergoes certain changes: the epidermis and underlying layers (dermis, subcutaneous tissue) become significantly thinner, the skin becomes very dry and sensitive. The cells of the epidermis of older people are not able to effectively retain moisture, which is so necessary to maintain skin elasticity. The processes of recovery and normal functioning of the skin are disturbed.

With age, the skin becomes dry, unable to retain moisture and fully exercise its barrier function.

In addition to xerosis (dry skin), unpleasant itching can be associated with impaired skin innervation due to senile changes in nerve fibers.

In addition to these reasons, experts call the following:

changes in the hormonal background (decrease in the production of sex and other hormones);
small vessels;
violations of water-salt metabolism;
age-related atrophy of the skin glands, the absence of a thin lipid layer on the surface of the epidermis.

Itching in the elderly can be provoked by cold, heat, friction of clothes or bed linen, detergents, hard water.

Video - reasons

Manifestations

An unpleasant symptom can be localized or generalized. In the first case, the skin itches in places of friction - on the shoulders, back, waist, in the groin. In the generalized form, itching occurs throughout the body. It can manifest itself with different intensity - from mild discomfort to painful sensations up to soreness.

Senile itching usually gets worse in the evening and can be annoying at night. In cold weather, when the heating is turned on in the room, the skin becomes even drier and you want to itch even more. An unpleasant sensation may occur periodically after water hygiene procedures.

With senile itching, the skin remains clean, fine-lamellar peeling may be noted, scratching is usually absent, which is associated with low turgor (firmness, elasticity) of the skin of the elderly.

Chronic itching can significantly reduce the quality of life of an elderly person, causing accompanying symptoms: sleep disturbance, irritability, loss of appetite.

Diagnostics

A dermatologist deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the patient. Diagnostic measures begin with a questioning of the patient: when itching appeared for the first time, what caused its exacerbation, accompanying symptoms. The skin is examined.

To determine the exact cause of itching, laboratory tests are prescribed:

clinical blood and urine tests: in the blood test, attention is paid to (whether there is an inflammatory process in the body), eosinophils (an increased number indicates allergies), hemoglobin levels (whether there is anemia);
to assess the functioning of internal organs;
a study of feces for eggs of worms (helminthic invasions can cause skin itching) and occult blood (if there is any internal bleeding).

The patient can also undergo a chest x-ray to identify pathological processes, an examination of the thyroid gland with an assessment of its functionality.

If the patient does not have somatic diseases that can provoke the appearance of skin itching, then the dermatologist diagnoses senile itching of the skin.

In some cases, it may be necessary to consult a psychiatrist, since the symptom may be associated with mental disorders of the patient.

Senile itching is differentiated from skin itching in dermatological and allergic diseases:

atopic or contact dermatitis;
eczema;
hay fever, urticaria;
scabies.

What are the ways to get rid of trouble?

The principles of treatment of senile itching are proper skin care and diet.

Human skin care

Since the main cause of senile itching is excessive dryness of the skin, it is necessary to deal with it. At hand, an elderly person should have properly selected body skin care products - creams and milk.

Sometimes dermatologists recommend using children's cosmetics, however, before buying such products, you need to carefully study their composition, since very often children's creams and lotions contain mineral oils that can clog pores.

From pharmacy products for the care of itchy skin, bath oil or German-made Balneum cream, body milk Dardia (Italy), antixerotic shower gel and body cream Losterin, La Cree cream from natural ingredients from itching, dryness and irritation are suitable.

Water procedures often do not bring relief to the elderly, but real tests, provoking increased itching and skin irritation. To avoid this, doctors recommend giving up soap and alkaline cleansers that degrease and dry the skin even more. It is recommended to take a shower rather than a bath, and the water should be warm, not hot. A mild detergent without a sponge should be washed only under the armpits, feet and genitals. Before a shower, you can lubricate the skin with peach or cold-pressed olive oil. After washing, wet skin should not be wiped, but blotted with a cotton towel and immediately apply body milk or moisturizing hypoallergenic cream.

Salvation from itching and a good tonic can be a contrast shower and wiping the skin with cosmetic ice with an infusion of string, sage or calendula. However, such procedures can adversely affect the general condition of an elderly person and cause an exacerbation of somatic diseases, so you should consult a therapist before using the method.

With senile itching, dousing with water with sea salt gives a good effect. The solution should be weak - 1 tablespoon per 5 liters of water. Flavored bath salts, which are widely available, cannot be used for this purpose, since additional components (dyes and fragrances) can cause an allergic reaction. Sea salt is desirable to purchase at the pharmacy. You can do douching constantly, such procedures have a good effect not only on the condition of the skin, but also have a beneficial effect on the nervous system.

An elderly person is advised to avoid clothes made of wool and synthetic fabrics, it is best to wear clothes made of cotton. The skin should not be overheated, baths and saunas should be banned, as well as warming physiotherapy.

The use of medicines

Topical corticosteroids are recognized as the most effective topical treatment for skin itching. However, with senile itching, their use is far from always justified. External hormonal agents are prescribed for severe itching, which is combined with inflammatory skin diseases. The course of application should be as limited as possible, since the elderly have a high risk of complications (skin atrophy). The weakest drugs are prescribed - 1% Hydrocortisone ointment, less often - drugs with a stronger effect - Akriderm, Sinaflan, Fluorocort. To relieve itching, apply cooling compresses, creams and ointments with the addition of menthol (ointment Boromenthol), camphor oil.

From systemic drugs for itching, first-generation antihistamines with a sedative effect are prescribed:

Pipolfen;
Diazolin;
Tavegil;
Suprastin.

Of the sedatives, Glycine, tincture of valerian and motherwort are recommended, in some cases mild antidepressants are shown - Mirtazapine (Calyxta), Paroxetine (Rexetin, Paxil), anticonvulsants - Gabapentin (Neurontin). Twice a year, with senile itching, it is useful to take courses of Aevit, Retinol, Omega-3.

Photo gallery - drugs for the treatment of senile itching

Topical steroid Hydrocortisone effectively relieves itchy skin
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have a beneficial effect on the skin of an elderly person, eliminating dryness
The combined drug Aevit is prescribed for severe dry skin The antihistamine drug Tavegil relieves itching and has a sedative effect. Boromenthol ointment with boric acid and menthol has a pronounced cooling and antipruritic effect.
Mirtazapine is an antidepressant sometimes prescribed for senile pruritus Glycine is a drug that has a mild sedative and stabilizing effect.

Diet

In nutrition, the patient needs to limit spicy, spicy foods, salty, smoked foods, marinades, coffee, strong tea, sweets, chocolate, citrus fruits, alcoholic beverages. Each patient should pay attention to which foods the itching intensifies, and exclude such foods from the diet.

Useful fresh vegetables, cereals, foods rich in iodine (seaweed, fish), polyunsaturated fatty acids (nuts, unrefined vegetable oil, seafood).

Physiotherapy

Of the physiotherapeutic procedures for the treatment of senile itching, treatment with ultraviolet rays (UVR) is used. The course is selected by the doctor individually. Ultraviolet treatment stimulates metabolic processes, enhances the protective properties of the skin, and normalizes the functioning of the immune system.

Ultraviolet irradiation is one of the main physiotherapeutic means of treating senile itching.

Folk recipes

To combat itching, traditional medicine recommends many remedies. When washing in the bath, you can add a small amount of fresh milk to the water - 1-2 cups. After a shower, you can also rinse with water with the addition of milk or non-acidic whey. After such a dousing, you do not need to wipe the skin, you just need to blot the moisture with a towel.

Instead of milk, you can use herbs - infusions of mint, string, oregano, elecampane, a decoction of bay leaf. Preparation of herbal infusion: Pour 2 large spoons of herbs with a liter of boiling water, leave for 2 hours, add to the bath.

use apple cider vinegar diluted 1:1 as an anti-itch lotion for the skin;
propolis in oil (1 teaspoon of raw materials per 100 ml of olive oil, keep in a water bath for half an hour) apply to lubricate problem areas;
ointment with birch tar: 3 tablespoons of tar, 2 tablespoons of vaseline oil, 100 ml of sophora tincture, mix, let stand in a dark place for a week, apply to lubricate the skin;
lotions from a mumiyo solution: 2 gr. dissolve the raw material in 100 ml of water, apply the product on itchy places.

Inside, it is recommended to take an antipruritic infusion of licorice, valerian, elecampane, violets and white lamb. Herbs are taken in equal proportions, mixed, pour a large spoonful of the mixture with a glass of boiling water, insist and drink 1 large spoonful three times a day before meals.

Mint herbal teas, lemon balm, which have a calming effect, will benefit.

Treatment prognosis and possible complications

In general, the prognosis of treatment, subject to the implementation of all medical recommendations, is favorable. With proper skin care, the symptoms of xerosis that causes itching are eliminated and the patient experiences significant relief.

Of the complications of senile itching, the most likely are:

infection of scratches;
manifestations from the nervous system:
- irritability;
- insomnia;
- loss of appetite;
- violation of general well-being.

Preventive actions

Prevention of senile itching is proper skin care and diet. Preventive measures include:

moisturizing the skin with special cosmetics;
rejection of aggressive detergents, synthetic fabrics;
avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun in open clothing;
proper nutrition, avoiding alcohol and smoking;
prevention of scratching itchy skin;
regular preventive examinations by doctors in order to identify somatic pathology.

In fact, skin changes and wrinkles can start long before you reach old age. In this article, we will talk about what skin diseases are in the elderly and whether they can be prevented.

What happens to the skin in old age, and what diseases is it susceptible to?

Of course, every person gets older every year. And naturally, our age has a direct impact on the condition of our skin. How skin looks in old age depends on factors such as:

Healthy lifestyle
Heredity
Nutrition
Bad habits (such as smoking or drinking alcohol)

Separately, it should be said that the skin is damaged under the influence of ultraviolet rays. The sun contributes to the destruction of tissue elasticity and as a result, stretch marks, wrinkles, pigmentation appear on the skin. In addition, daily facial expressions, as well as all sorts of stresses and worries, have a negative effect on our skin. Due to these factors, adipose tissue is lost between the skin and muscles.

What changes occur to the skin due to aging?

The skin becomes rough and dry to the touch
Pigmentation and birthmarks may appear
The skin on the face sags. This is especially true for the area around the eyes, cheeks and jaw.
The skin may become too thin and translucent
When hit, bruises appear very quickly. This is due to the fact that the skin has become inelastic

Common skin diseases in the elderly:

Wrinkles. In fact, this disease most often indicates that the skin has begun to age. Wrinkles appear as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle, as well as prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Lines of movement on the face. As soon as the skin begins to lose its elasticity, these lines become very noticeable. This happens most often at the age of 40-50 years.
Dryness and itching of the skin. Dry skin occurs because it loses the sebaceous glands, namely, they help keep the skin soft. It happens, of course, that dryness and itching indicate the presence of diseases such as diabetes, kidney stones, and liver disease.
And, perhaps, the most terrible disease is skin cancer. It has been scientifically proven that skin cancer develops as a result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays. Most cancers develop before the age of 65.
Age spots. Just like cancer is caused by too much sun. This disease manifests itself in adulthood.
Bedsores. This disease appears when a person is in a sitting or lying position for a long time. It is worth saying that this disease is common among older people who are unable to move independently. People with diabetes are also prone to pressure sores.

How to prevent skin diseases in old age?

Of course, it’s worth saying right away that there is no such remedy that would completely remove the harmful effects of sunlight. But the skin tends to heal itself.

Even if you do not sunbathe, but just went for a walk in hot sunny weather, it will be just fine if you treat your skin with sunscreen. Give preference to products with the highest degree of protection from ultraviolet radiation.
From time to time visit a dermatologist who will track all age-related skin changes.
If you are outdoors, it is best to wear a long-sleeve sweater, hat and sunglasses. Thus, you prevent the penetration of ultraviolet into the skin.
Don't go to the solarium.

In old age, the skin becomes too dry, resulting in severe itching. Provoking factors are lifestyle, human habits and the presence of certain diseases. As a rule, senile itching of the skin is observed in males, but women can also be affected.

Senile itching in the form of nocturnal excruciating attacks is observed in persons who have reached the age of 50-70 years. The disease most often affects men.

Aging is a natural process, which, nevertheless, is the cause of many negative changes in the body, which often lead to unpleasant consequences.

In older people, the hormonal balance and metabolism change, the circulatory, nervous, digestive systems and other parts of the body undergo serious structural and functional changes.

Last but not least, these changes affect the skin - one of the most sensitive elements of the human body. This is especially true for women, whose skin has a number of significant differences from men's.

More subtle, delicate and exposed to destructive environmental factors, it is one of the first to experience the consequences of age-related changes.

In elderly patients, there are numerous changes in the skin: it becomes dry, wrinkled, loses volume and elasticity. Pigment spots and other defects appear on the surface of the skin, which often cause significant psychological discomfort to patients.

However, an even more unpleasant manifestation of age-related changes is senile itching in women. A strong itching sensation is a common cause of insomnia, anxiety-depressive disorders and can lead to serious consequences.

Systemic drugs

Treatment of senile itching is not an easy problem. It is not so easy to establish the true mechanism of itching. Therefore, in general, patients are prescribed individually selected symptomatic treatment.

Of the drugs of general (systemic) action, antihistamines are prescribed (Erius, Kestin, Zodak, Claritin) - they relieve itching well. Some antidepressants are also effective, for example, mirtazapine (Calyxta, Mirtazapine canon), paroxetine (Paxil, Paroxetine, Reksetin, Sirestill) and anticonvulsants (for example, Ggabapentin), which depress the central mechanisms of itching.

External medications to relieve itching

With increased dryness of the skin, moisturizers are prescribed. If the itching is very persistent and is accompanied by inflammatory rashes on the skin, ointments and creams are prescribed, which include corticosteroid hormones - Akriderm, Fluorocort, and so on.

Menthol-based ointments, for example, Boromenthol ointment, which contains boric acid and menthol, also relieve irritation and senile itching of the skin. You can also apply 1-3% menthol oil, it relieves itching and gives a feeling of coolness on the skin. The Golden Star balm also works.

Folk remedies for senile itching

Causes of itching

It matters not only insufficient retention of moisture by the skin, but also a decrease in the amount of sweat and sebaceous gland secretion. All this is largely due to atrophic changes, both in the dermis itself and in the small blood vessels and nerve fibers that are suitable for it.

Scientists will explain itching in the elderly by the influence of several factors, each of which can be expressed to a lesser or greater extent in different people. The age-related features of the skin are of the greatest importance: it is usually dry and thin, with reduced turgor, the processes of healing and renewal of the skin proceed slowly.

It matters not only insufficient retention of moisture by the skin, but also a decrease in the amount of sweat and sebaceous gland secretion. All this is largely due to atrophic changes, both in the dermis itself and in the small blood vessels and nerve fibers that are suitable for it.

The average age of the disease is considered to be 35 years. And it appears more often in men.

The disease is characterized by the fact that it has too frequent repetitions, which can last up to a year. The most interesting thing is that scientists have not yet identified the specific cause of the appearance of Dühring's dermatitis herpetiformis.

Therefore, the following factors are taken into account:

The disease is inherited.
The formation of a tumor inside the body.
Too much sensitivity to iodine.
Worms in the body.
Infection or virus infection.
The presence of pregnancy or the appearance of menopause.
And also factors can be physical, psychological overwork.

With dermatitis herpetiformis, the causes can be completely different. But these are the main conditions for the appearance of such a disease.

The etiology and pathogenesis of this disease are still not clear. Experts believe that it has an autoimmune nature. In the basement membrane (on the border of the dermis, epidermis), the researchers found IgA antibodies.

A significant role in the manifestation of the disease under consideration of high sensitivity to iodine preparations was noted. During the experiment, the patient was injected with an iodide solution (3-5%). After the administration of the drug, the appearance of a rash was noted, which is typical of the type of skin disease in question.

In a large number of patients, doctors found intolerance to the gluten protein that cereals contain.

Possible reasons include the following:

heredity;
diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (ulcers, gastritis);
diseases with viral etiology (herpes, SARS);
ascariasis.

The manifestations of dermatoses are different, and they are provoked by external as well as internal causes in any age range. Dermatosis can manifest itself in the form of an allergic reaction, poisoning and disorders in the immune system of the body, various inflammatory, infectious diseases with a long course, diseases of the endocrine system, diseases of the blood and blood vessels, prolonged fever.

The causes of dermatosis can also be cosmetics, mechanical damage, chemical components, piercings, contact with stinging and poisonous plants, occupational allergens, insect bites, and tattoos.

The main cause of body skin itching in the elderly is a decrease in the activity of elastin production by the epidermis.

The skin becomes dry. Turgor and smoothness are lost, peeling appears.

Note! Very often, discomfort is a protective reaction of the body in response to external stimuli.

natural causes

Not always unpleasant sensations are provoked by pathology. The main natural causes are shown in the diagram.

Pathological causes

The diagram shows the percentage of occurrence of factors that provoke the appearance of pruritus.

Specific Causes

Some provocateur factors cannot be attributed either to natural causes or to serious illnesses.

The etiology of bullous pemphigoid is currently the subject of scientific debate, research in this area has helped form several major hypotheses to explain the causes of this condition.

The most widely accepted view is that this autoimmune disease develops due to the presence of certain mutations that alter the major histocompatibility complex.

This is partly confirmed by the fact that among patients with bullous pemphigoid, there is an increased number of individuals who have the MHC DQB1 0301 class 2 allele.

However, to date, no mutations or other genetic disorders have been identified that could be unambiguously associated with this skin disease.

The pathogenesis of bullous pemphigoid has been studied somewhat better than etiology, which allows us to reliably state the autoimmune nature of this condition. The main object of attack by the immune system are two proteins of the epidermis - one of them, BP180, is a transmembrane protein and is currently associated with type 17 collagen.

The second antigen involved in the development of bullous pemphigoid, BP230, is located inside the cytoplasm of epidermal cells and presumably belongs to the group of plakins.

These two proteins are related in their function - they participate in the formation of hemidesmosomes and maintain the ordered structure of the stratified epithelium.

All patients with bullous pemphigoid have plasma antibodies of class G, which have the ability to bind to autoantigens BP180 and BP230.

Their appearance is associated with the development in the body of autoreactive T-lymphocytes against the above proteins of epithelial cells. T-lymphocytes are responsible for the cellular immune response, simultaneously activating B-lymphocytes that produce antibodies.

The binding of T-lymphocytes and antibodies to the own proteins of the skin and mucous membranes activates the complement system, which attracts other immunocompetent cells, mainly neutrophils and eosinophils, to the pathological focus.

In some patients with bullous pemphigoid, a significant involvement of mast cells (mast cells) in the pathogenesis of the disease was revealed.

Types of pathology

Currently, there are several varieties of the disease:

Papular - on the body of a rash in the form of papules
bullous - the skin is covered with bullae
Vesicular - the skin is covered with vesicles
Urticaria-like - burns appear on the skin that resemble nettle burns
Paraoncological - a case when the development of a rash begins from the appearance of a tumor

In general, several dozen types of dermatitis are distinguished in medicine, but there are also the most commonly diagnosed ones.

Dry dermatitis

This type of disease manifests itself exclusively in the cold season, more often diagnosed in elderly and senile patients. The causes of dry dermatitis are:

dry indoor air;
prolonged exposure to cold air;
diseases of a functional / organic nature;
hereditary and psychosomatic factors.

Dry dermatitis has a clear localization - on the feet and rarely manifests itself in other parts of the body. Symptoms of dry dermatitis are considered to be:

excessively dry skin on the feet;
cracking flaky spots on the feet;
itching at the site of the skin disease;
redness of the affected skin.

A distinctive feature of this type of dermatitis is its long course and clear seasonality of exacerbations.

A sign of age or a symptom of illness

In most cases, itchy skin in older people (also called senile) is a commonplace sign of their age. Gradual atrophy of blood vessels, thinning of the subcutaneous tissue, which occur over the years, leads to the fact that the skin retains moisture very poorly.

Senile itching manifests itself in each person in different ways, but it is usually characterized by:

fluctuations in seizures: from mild to severe;
exacerbations and recessions that replace one another;
absence of rashes or suppuration on the skin;
the fact that even after very frequent scratching, no traces remain on the skin, and the nails, on the contrary, acquire the effect of polishing;
at night, the skin itches especially strongly.

And the dryness of the skin and its excessive sensitivity, just cause a desire to scratch.

If a person has already crossed the 65-year age limit, there is nothing pathological here, although the sensations, of course, are unpleasant and sometimes they do not even let you fall asleep.

Symptoms of senile itching

Itching is the most common skin complaint in patients over the age of 65. It is often neglected by many people, although senile itchy skin can have a serious impact on quality of life in old age, especially through sleep deprivation.

Given the many changes that accompany advancing age, the management of pruritus in the elderly presents a particular clinical challenge.

Itching can be of different strength, but more often it affects the representatives of the stronger sex. Often the intensity is such that the patient cannot endure.

The duration of the disease can be months. But not always the patient's body is covered with scratches.

In some patients, from continuous scratching, the fingernails are polished, and the skin becomes dry, covered with boils, age spots, and eczematous foci.

This unpleasant phenomenon is explained by metabolic disorders, desiccation of the dermis, and atherosclerotic processes. It is most pronounced at night and can spread to any part of the body.

In some patients, the disease develops during menopause.

The appearance of such a disease is characterized by rashes of various kinds: blisters, papules or spots.

The spots are smooth, over time bubbles form in their place, all this merges together and forms a huge focus of inflammation. Inside the blisters, large or small, there is liquid.

If there is an infection inside, then the liquid is cloudy. Over time, the blisters burst, forming erosion.

When it passes, a trace or scar remains on the skin. A rash can appear anywhere except the palms, soles, mucous membranes.

Most often on the arms, legs, shoulder blades, buttocks. In addition to the rash, Duhring's dermatitis herpetiformis has a number of symptoms:

The rash is very itchy, tingling, burning sensation
Body temperature rises
Man suffering from insomnia
Feeling of general weakness of the body
Gray greasy stool
Thyroid dysfunction

When a woman is pregnant, such a disease may appear in the second trimester. With treatment, you must be very careful not to harm the fetus. If such symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor for help.

The disease begins acutely with the formation of foci of polymorphic rash. At the onset of the disease, the patient is disturbed by the following manifestations:

red spots;
blisters;
puffiness;
bubbles;
ring-shaped arrangement of bubbles.

As symptoms of dermatitis, hyperemia and swelling of skin areas, a feeling of heat and an increase in temperature can act, the skin can become covered with blisters filled with a clear liquid, in some cases - ulcers.

All changes in the skin, as a rule, are accompanied by itching or burning. The sun and stress, which also irritate the skin, can intensify inflammation.

Diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid

Severe itching in the elderly is a systemic manifestation, it is difficult to diagnose and differentiate it from the symptoms of chronic pathologies, but the availability of modern laboratory techniques allows this to be done.

First of all, the doctor carefully examines the patient and collects an anamnesis. He must understand when the first signs of malaise appeared and whether the peaks of their manifestation are observed. After the interview, a visual examination of the patient is carried out. Each section of the skin is examined from the back to the legs.

In order to distinguish senile itching from contact dermatitis, psoriasis, scabies and urticaria, an analysis is necessarily carried out for hidden allergens, scrapings from the affected areas.

To assess the functioning of internal organs, a biochemical blood test is performed. Skin itching in the elderly can cause helminthic invasions, so a stool test for helminth eggs can be prescribed.

The obtained material allows you to confirm or exclude a fungal or viral infection. Causes and treatment are closely related to each other.

The patient needs to conduct an iodine test. To do this, take petroleum jelly and potassium iodide, make an ointment, apply it to a compress.

Such a compress should be kept for a day on a healthy part of the body. If blisters, a rash or inflammation appear on the body in a day, the person is sick with dermatitis.

If there is nothing, then the compress is removed. The patient must be referred for testing.

Blood is given, samples of bubbles are taken. If a high concentration of eosinophils is found in them, a person has dermatitis herpetiformis.

An analysis is carried out for the biological component, which will show in detail the presence of the disease. Older people should definitely be checked for the absence of tumors.

In parallel, the doctor may prescribe an ultrasound, x-ray, CT scan of the kidneys. This is due to the fact that this type of disease is closely related to oncology.

The definition of such a disease as bullous pemphigoid is made on the basis of examination data by a dermatologist, immunological studies and histological examination of the tissues of pathological foci.

On examination, depending on the stage of development of the pathology, an erythematous rash, formed blisters located symmetrically, urticarial rashes of varying intensity, healing erosions, sometimes covered with a crust, can be observed.

A complete blood count in about half of the cases of bullous pemphigoid shows moderate eosinophilia, sometimes leukocytosis. Also in the peripheral blood, using the immunoprecipitation reaction, IgG can be detected that have the ability to bind to the BP180 and BP230 antigens.

Histological studies in bullous pemphigoid include simple light microscopy and immunofluorescence microscopy. When examined under a microscope, at various stages of blister formation, an epidermal cleft can be found, then a subepidermal vesicle, which turns into an intraepidermal one.

The dermis under the pathological focus is sharply edematous, leukocyte infiltration, consisting mainly of lymphocytes, eosinophils and neutrophils, can be expressed in different ways.

Immunofluorescence microscopy reveals the accumulation of class G immunoglobulins and complement fractions (most often C3) along the basement membrane of the epidermis.

In bullous pemphigoid, these molecules are predominantly concentrated on the outside of the basement membrane. Differential diagnosis should be made with pemphigus vulgaris, erythema multiforme exudative, and epidermolysis bullosa.

Itching treatment

Since itching is a symptom of various diseases, consultation with a specialist is necessary.

Itching nervous

After the diagnosis of senile itching is established, the treatment is selected individually, taking into account all the characteristics of the body of a particular patient. The use of drugs for senile itching is limited for a number of reasons:

With age, the functional activity of the liver and kidneys decreases. Therefore, the half-life of drugs increases, and their use in therapeutic doses can lead to significant side effects.
Topical treatment is safer, but in some patients it is difficult due to physical and cognitive impairment.
The multiplicity of causes leading to the development of senile itching makes it difficult to choose a drug that will be effective in each specific case.

Therapy of the disease depends on the degree of its severity. If a serious pathology is excluded, it is enough to use local preparations that are available in the form of creams, ointments or gels, and also follow a diet.

In other cases, the doctor prescribes medications, as well as physiotherapeutic procedures, the action of which is aimed at eliminating the root cause of the pathology.

It is possible to use folk remedies, but only under the supervision of a specialist.

The management of pruritus in the elderly presents a particular challenge. Physical and cognitive impairments can make topical treatment impossible, and comorbidities, especially those affecting the liver and kidneys in this age group, pose a greater risk of adverse reactions.

Currently, there is no generally accepted therapy for itchy senile skin. Instead, the management of pruritus, especially in the elderly, requires the most individualized approach, taking into account the general health of the patient, the severity of symptoms, and the adverse effects of wellness treatments.

There are a number of general measures that may be helpful in managing itching in the elderly, regardless of the underlying cause. Patient education is central to the management of pruritus.

Identifying and addressing aggravating factors are often the first steps to successful treatment. Patients should be informed of the increased possibility of skin inflammation after scratching, and simple measures such as trimming the nails can break the itch-scratch-itch cycle.

The itching sensation is often exacerbated by heat, so if necessary, take steps such as taking cold showers, wearing light clothing, and using a conditioner to keep the skin cool.

Wherever possible, simple home regimens are preferred in order to limit skin itching as much as possible and to avoid possible adverse reactions to the treatment of senile itching of the skin.

Local treatment of senile itching

Moisturizing, emollient and protective creams

With the appearance of such a serious illness, treatment should be comprehensive. Getting rid of dermatitis herpetiformis (Dühring's disease) is quite difficult, so several methods are used at once.

“With a comprehensive solution to the problem, including diet and home treatment, you will rarely be bothered by rashes on the body,” says a dermatologist of the highest category E.

A. Malyshevsky.

With drug treatment, doctors prescribe a sulfonic group of drugs:

Sulfasalazine is an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial agent prescribed by a doctor. It has contraindications, so be sure to read the annotation
Diucifon is a powder used in the treatment of rashes on the body. Has contraindications
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid if sulfones fail. It has anti-allergic, anti-toxic effect. There are many contraindications
Erius is an antihistamine prescribed to relieve itching.

The places affected by the disease must be constantly treated with a solution of potassium permanganate or brilliant green. You can buy antihistamine ointments.

It is mandatory to take vitamin complexes, because the body after taking such medicines loses many useful substances.

For the treatment of dermatitis and the prevention of secondary infection, the non-hormonal Skin-cap (externally) is used, the active ingredient of which is zinc pyrithione.

Its effectiveness is not lower than that of hormonal drugs. Skin-cap is not characterized by side effects noted for hormonal drugs.

It has anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial effects. In cases of weeping dermatitis, it is better to use an aerosol, in dry cases - a cream that provides additional skin hydration.

Skin-cap can also be used for children after the first year of life. The drug is applied to the skin twice a day.

Types of dermatitis

There are two main types of dermatitis: contact or allergic and atopic or hereditary.

Atopic dermatitis is a complex disease that most often manifests itself in childhood or in newborns.

Common forms of dermatitis include coin-like and herpetiform dermatitis, eczema, and seborrhea.

The name coin-like dermatitis is associated with external manifestations of inflammation, in the form of round spots appearing on the limbs and resembling coins.

With dermatitis herpetiformis, blisters appear symmetrically located most often on the knees, elbows, buttocks and shoulders. The cause of such dermatitis can be intestinal disorders and weakness of the immune system.

The most common form of dermatitis is eczema. At the same time, blisters filled with liquid with an unpleasant odor appear on the skin. The contents of the blisters ooze slowly at first, then the blisters burst.

With the defeat of the scalp and face, we are talking about such a form of dermatitis as seborrhea.

Regardless of the type and form of dermatitis, diet and fortification of food have a beneficial effect on improving the general condition. Proper nutrition, taking the necessary vitamins not only alleviate the symptoms of dermatitis, but also help improve skin condition.

Treatment of dermatitis with potatoes

The development of dermatitis can begin even after undergoing an X-ray examination. In this case, freshly squeezed potato juice is considered an effective anti-inflammatory and therapeutic agent.

To obtain juice, potatoes should be washed, peeled and grated on a fine grater. Put the potato mass on the gauze, lay gauze in several layers and attach it to the affected area.

The compress must be kept for two hours, after which it is replaced with a new one. At night, it is necessary to apply propolis ointment to the skin.

Geranium oil

General activities play an important role:

Diet: exclusion of spicy foods, smoked meats, chocolate, citrus fruits, eggs, strong broths, cocoa, whole cow's milk;
The room where the patient is most often located is cleaned every day (wet cleaning), ventilated. Such things are unacceptable: carpets, aquariums, pet hair, flowering plants;
Clothes are comfortable, spacious, made of natural materials;
Stabilize rest, sleep, avoid stress;
Sanitize foci of chronic infection.

Dermatitis can occur in different types and forms, so there is no clearly defined treatment for this skin disease - the selection of specific drugs is carried out by the doctor on an individual basis. Specialists adhere to the following scheme of appointments:

The pathogenesis of the disease is affected in a complex way:

neutralize the negative impact of the identified pathogenic factor;
helping to manage symptoms;
restoration and strengthening of the body's immune system.

Treatment of dermatitis occurs until the moment of complete regeneration of the skin (healing of damaged areas). As a rule, this process takes at least 28 days.

dietary rules

Such a diagnosis as senile itching, which is a fairly common problem, must be established by a specialist without fail. Moreover, the doctor must first exclude other possible prerequisites for the development of this pathological condition of the skin.

Often, to identify the internal cause of itching, dynamic monitoring of aged patients is required for quite a long time.

Treatment of senile itching is prescribed for each individual patient on an individual basis, which is associated with the presence of certain social and physical limitations in people of the age.

When choosing a therapeutic course, the specialist must take into account the severity of the symptoms and the general health of the elderly person.

In addition, the doctor also considers such an alarming factor as the aggressiveness of the course of the disease, since it can signal the presence of liver pathology, diabetes mellitus or oncology in the patient's body.

A single therapeutic technique, according to which it is customary to treat senile itching, has not been developed. All therapeutic measures are associated with a large number of factors and, first of all, the etiological mechanism of the disease influences the choice.

But still, by and large, doctors do not seek to eliminate the disease, which has become the root cause of the disease and is often irreversible, but to remove negative symptoms.

For this purpose, local therapy is used:

Reduces the effect of skin dryness individually selected by the doctor softening cream.
The soothing effect on the affected skin areas is provided by drugs whose active ingredient is menthol.
Antipruritic effect gives salicylic acid, which acts as an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase.
Topical corticosteroids are used to provide an anti-inflammatory effect, but they should be used with great caution and only on prescription.
Systemic therapy drugs are also recommended by specialists, which are taken orally by patients and absorbed into the blood. For the treatment of itching in the elderly, antidepressants are prescribed to reduce the neurogenic factor of influence, as well as antihistamines.

In case of ineffectiveness of local therapy, general medicines are used. As a rule, their use is justified if a person suffers from chronic itching of the skin over a long period of time, and doctors cannot determine the cause of this disease.

In such cases, the selection of drugs of various categories and directions of action is performed. Based on the results of the reaction of the skin to each drug, the therapy is adjusted to further improve well-being.

Patients are prescribed drugs of the following category:

Antihistamines. Remove the feeling of itching if it is caused by an allergic reaction.
Antidepressants. They are used to treat the elderly, whose body itches against the background of deteriorating mental health.
Antipsychotics. Effective against itching of the skin of neuropathic origin. Such patients begin to itch as soon as nervousness appears.

Senile itching is a complex problem of the state of health of a person who has reached old age. The reasons for its appearance can be very diverse, but the main one is still a change in the intensity of all vital processes occurring in the body of an aging person.

Treatment of pruritus in the elderly is aimed at:

restoration of the protective properties of the skin;
decrease in the autoimmune process in the cells of the epidermis;
restoration of the structure and performance of hepatocytes.

For treatment, local creams and ointments, tablet preparations and folk remedies are used.

The first-line drugs used to treat bullous pemphigoid are glucocorticosteroids - prednisolone, methylprednisolone and others. Treatment is long, therapy begins with high dosages of steroids, gradually lowering the dose over 6-9 months.

Given that many patients with bullous pemphigoid are elderly, it is not possible to carry out a full-fledged therapy with glucocorticosteroids due to significant side effects.

Often in such a situation, treatment is carried out with a combination of a reduced dose of steroids orally and topical application of ointments based on them.

Get rid of itching, improve the quality of life

How to treat senile itching of the skin - there is no single rule here. But a doctor can develop a purely personal complex of treatment for his patient, taking into account all the nuances - age, lifestyle, the presence of chronic diseases.

The diseases that caused itching may already be practically incurable, so the main attention is paid to the elimination of this symptom. External treatments include:

protective creams with a moisturizing effect and softening the skin (their use is designed to eliminate dryness of the skin);
anti-inflammatory external agents (used only for inflammatory skin diseases and strictly as directed by a doctor);
drugs that regulate the immune system (prescribed by a doctor for diseases such as dermatitis, scabies, etc.);
menthol compresses (effective for people whose urge to itch goes away or decreases after the skin becomes cool);
capsaicin (used in diseases of a neuralgic nature);
local anesthetics (appointed to people with dermatitis, psoriasis, etc.);
salicylic acid (used for lichen, but only externally!).

In the systemic treatment of pruritus, a number of drugs are used that are taken orally. Their selection depends on the identified chronic disease.

Psychotropic drugs for the treatment of depression, for example, will help people whose constant desire to itch is caused by mental problems. Antihistamines are effective for hives.

Of course, only a doctor is engaged in the selection and prescription of drugs.

Also, in diseases associated with itching, light treatment helps a lot, which avoids the negative side effects that are possible after taking medications.

Aquatherapy Features

For drug treatment of body itching in old age, the use is prescribed:

antihistamines;
immunomodulators;
antidepressants;
neuroleptics.

In case of disorders of the nervous system, bromine preparations are prescribed to the patient. They are injected into a vein or muscle. The effect is enhanced by the simultaneous administration of calcium chloride.

The use of antihistamine drugs

The drugs of this group have an effect when chronic urticaria appears. A small effect is observed with attacks of senile itching at night.

Note! These medicines have a slight sedative effect, cause drowsiness. They should be taken only after consulting a doctor.

The use of immunomodulators

Medicines have a beneficial effect if the discomfort is seborrheic or chronic.

Use of antidepressants

Medicines of this group are prescribed for the psychogenic form of senile itching.

Antidepressants cause side effects. You need to start taking these drugs with small doses.

The use of neuroleptics

The drugs of this group have a beneficial effect on the background of itching provoked by postherpetic neuralgia.

This type of therapy is an alternative to physiotherapy.

The instruction looks like this:

Refuse soap and alkaline products. They have a degreasing effect and greatly dry the skin.
You should take a shower, not a bath. The water temperature should be optimal - you can’t stand under cold and hot water.
For washing the armpits, genitals and feet, it is recommended to use baby soap. It has a hypoallergenic, antibacterial effect.
Before water procedures, you need to lubricate the skin with peach or olive oil.
After taking a shower, gently pat your skin dry with a cotton towel. Then a moisturizing milk or cream with a hypoallergenic effect is applied.
With severe itching, it is recommended to pour water with sea salt. This has a beneficial effect on the state of the nervous system. To prepare the solution, you need to mix 20 grams of the product with 5000 ml of water. It is impossible to replace sea salt with flavored bath products, since the components in their composition can provoke allergies.
Senile itching, provoked by stress, is treated with a contrast shower. The duration of 1 session is 2-5 minutes. Elderly people suffering from heart disease, this procedure is contraindicated.

Note! Rubbing with cosmetic ice with calendula, sage and string helps to eliminate an unpleasant symptom. A preliminary consultation with a doctor is strictly required, since the procedure can provoke an exacerbation of somatic pathologies.

Application of local funds

Itching skin, simple

Elecampane high (root). It is used in this case as an external agent (lotion, rubbing) in the form of a tincture (25.0) on alcohol or vodka, or instead - a home-made extract, i.e. a decoction 20.0-200.0, condensed "in the spirit" up to half.
Stinging nettle (herb). Her broth 15.0-200.0 for 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day, or home extract, i.e. the same decoction, condensed to half, 1 tsp. If at the same time urination decreases or constipation appears, then combine the nettle with dandelion leaves and sloe flowers (equally), this mixture is 2 tbsp. l. brew in a glass of boiling water, soar in the oven for 2-3 hours, drink 1/2 cup 3 times a day. Pharmacy liquid extract from it - 25-30 drops each.
Birch (buds). Tincture (10%) 20 drops 3 times.

Body itching nervous

Rub itchy areas with a coarse woolen cloth or corn cob (no grains).

Itching in the anus

Pepper water, mountaineer pepper (grass). As a hemostatic and analgesic, it is recognized as useful for bloody hemorrhoids, not only in folk, but also in scientific medicine. You can use a decoction of it 12.0-200.0, 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day, as well as tincture (25.0) or pharmacy liquid extract (25.0) 30-40 drops 3 times a day 1/2 hour before meals. It often happens in combination with the extract of viburnum and shepherd's purse. For external use, there are pharmacy candles from it called "Anestezol". Instead of candles, people use sitz baths from a decoction of this herb (50 g per 1 liter of boiling water, then dilute in the bath) for 15 minutes, every day until the itching in the anus stops. 2nd, more complicated, sitz bath method: 400 g of fresh grass per 2 liters of water, boil for 15 minutes, leave for 20 minutes, add 2 cups of hot milk, in which about 400 g of rolls were boiled in small pieces. In this hot bath, the buds must be bathed. The term of daily use is about a month. After the bath, wash with warm water.

Itching all over body

Boil one kilogram of barley grains in a large amount of water and bathe the patient in this water.
In this case, you need to expand the pores with the help of bathing and various rubbing.
Aloe juice and myrrh, especially mixed with honey, have a beneficial effect. Drink like tea with honey.
Aloe juice with lentil flour and a little vinegar is also a good remedy. Celery juice is also often used. Take 1/4 cup after meals.
Take 50–100 g of couch grass rhizomes in a bucket of water and boil in a sealed container. When the water has cooled down to 38°C, do baths for 20 minutes. Baths should be taken daily.
Fill the bath with water, then dilute in it 50 ml of coniferous extract and 0.5 kg of potato starch, or instead of it - 1 liter of a thick broth of oatmeal. Take a bath at a water temperature of 35–37°C for 10 minutes.

The most effective local remedies to help get rid of senile itching are presented in the plate.

Note! Local remedies are used only for symptomatic therapy. They usually do not affect the cause of senile itching.

The most effective folk remedies to alleviate the symptoms are presented in the plate.

Table 8. The best folk remedies.

Complications

With timely treatment of the disease, the prognosis is favorable. Medicines quickly relieve itching and other discomfort.

It is important to complete the full course of therapy, as well as take care of prevention. Complications of this disease are rare.

It can be:

Infectious lesions that appear as a result of constant scratching of the affected areas.
Neurotic disorders - many patients are worried about insomnia, apathy and irritability. They go away after treatment.

Scratching is a bad habit!

How to get rid of senile itching? Taking into account the state of health of the elderly and its particular vulnerability, the selection of methods and means of treatment is carried out purely individually - taking into account side effects and the severity of possible consequences.

Strange as it may seem, you can start with a psychological technique - try to wean yourself from the habit of scratching. Sometimes for this it is enough just to shortly cut the nails of a person who is tormented by itching.

The mechanically performed scratching procedure will no longer be as tangible and rather pleasant for him as before, and, perhaps, the person will slowly forget about it.

In addition, you can tell that scratching when scratching is very easy to get inflammation on the skin. And then older people will become more in control of their involuntary gestures.

Maintaining personal hygiene, choosing clothes made from light natural fabrics, and regularly changing bedding will help reduce the itching sensation. And also for this it is better not to overheat the skin, cool air is more useful for it.

Talk to your doctor about the advisability of using a special diet. After all, if itching is caused by kidney problems, then you need to eat foods low in protein.

And if this is an allergic reaction to some products, then they should be abandoned altogether. Foods that are well absorbed and will not cause allergies with itching include: pasta, buckwheat, oatmeal, rice, dairy products and vegetable oil, lean meat, liver and kidneys, fish, vegetables, fruits and dried fruits.

Disease prevention

To prevent the appearance of skin itching, you need to adjust your lifestyle and follow simple rules:

moisturize the skin with oils and creams, do not allow it to dry out;
replace bed linen with natural, cotton is best;
cover exposed areas in the sun;
revise your diet by including healthy foods in the menu;
annually undergoes an examination by a doctor;
give up smoking and alcohol.

Skin itching in the elderly is an unpleasant phenomenon that interferes with a full life. Therefore, at the first sign of its appearance, you should consult a doctor. It will help to determine the cause of the problems and eliminate them.

Treatment is prescribed to the patient based on the results of the examination. Self-treatment in this situation can only aggravate the situation. Treatment of anogenital itching involves the elimination of the provoking factor.

Dühring's dermatitis is classified as a chronic disease. Relapses can occur throughout the life of the patient.

To avoid relapses, complications, follow the recommendations of a dermatologist. Preventive measures include:

Diet tracking. It is necessary to exclude from it iodine-containing products (seafood, walnuts, medicines containing iodine), cereals (rye, oats, wheat, barley).
Be on dispensary observation, regularly undergo examinations.

Mode and nutrition

To reduce the intensity of itching, it is of particular importance to follow the recommendations regarding the regimen and nutrition.

When the human body is struck by dermatitis herpetiformis, one must definitely think about a diet that will help get rid of the disease faster. It is strictly forbidden to eat: Beans, cereals, flour, kvass, beer, sweets, foods containing honey, cabbage.

Everything else is possible, so eating right with such a disease is not difficult. Be sure to include lean meats, broths, vegetables, and dairy products in your diet.

From drinks only natural black coffee, mineral water without iodine. Eat plenty of greens, olives, olives.

So, what can not be eaten with Dühring's dermatitis? A feature of therapy is a mandatory diet, in which the following are prohibited:

cereals and legumes,
food with flour and malt,
kvass, beer and coffee substitutes,
chocolates and ice cream
flour products and breaded products,
sausages,
iodine-containing products.

Note! Cabbage with Dühring's dermatitis is also prohibited for use.

Diet affects the condition of the skin of an elderly person.

In the diet of the patient should be products saturated with the vitamins and minerals he needs:

iodine;
omega-3 fatty acid;
omega 6.

Foods rich in iodine

This mineral is an essential component of the thyroid gland and is part of its hormones. The daily requirement for iodine is 100-150 mcg.

It is also allowed to season food with iodized salt. It can be used no more than 3 times in 7 days.

Foods rich in omega-3

This polyunsaturated fatty acid normalizes the work of the cardiac and vascular systems, improves the general condition. Daily rate - 1 - 2.5 g.

Table 6. Foods rich in omega-3.

Foods rich in omega-6

This polyunsaturated fatty acid helps create an optimal balance of prostaglandins in the body.

They are helping:

improve the condition of the skin;
remove the inflammatory process;
relieve pain syndrome.

The daily requirement for omega-6 is 4.5-8 g.

Senile itching in the form of nocturnal excruciating attacks is observed in persons who have reached the age of 50-70 years. The disease most often affects men.

Aging is a natural process, which, nevertheless, is the cause of many negative changes in the body, which often lead to unpleasant consequences.

In older people, the hormonal balance and metabolism change, the circulatory, nervous, digestive systems and other parts of the body undergo serious structural and functional changes.

Last but not least, these changes affect the skin - one of the most sensitive elements of the human body. This is especially true for women, whose skin has a number of significant differences from men's.

More subtle, delicate and exposed to destructive environmental factors, it is one of the first to experience the consequences of age-related changes.

Systemic drugs

External medications to relieve itching

Folk remedies for senile itching

Senile itching can be removed with the help of folk remedies:

Causes

The average age of the disease is considered to be 35 years. Moreover, it appears more often in men. The disease is characterized by the fact that it has too frequent repetitions, which can last up to a year. The most interesting thing is that scientists have not yet identified the specific cause of the appearance of Dühring's dermatitis herpetiformis. Therefore, the following factors are taken into account:

The disease is inherited.
The formation of a tumor inside the body.
Too much sensitivity to iodine.
Worms in the body.
Infection or virus infection.
The presence of pregnancy or the appearance of menopause.
And also factors can be physical, psychological overwork.

With dermatitis herpetiformis, the causes can be completely different. But these are the main conditions for the appearance of such a disease.

In a large number of patients, doctors found intolerance to the gluten protein that cereals contain.

Possible reasons include the following:

heredity;
diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (ulcers, gastritis);
diseases with viral etiology (herpes, SARS);
ascariasis.

The causes of dermatosis can also be cosmetics, mechanical damage, chemical components, piercings, contact with stinging and poisonous plants, occupational allergens, insect bites, and tattoos.

Types of pathology

Currently, there are several varieties of the disease:

Papular - on the body of a rash in the form of papules
bullous - the skin is covered with bullae
Vesicular - the skin is covered with vesicles
Urticaria-like - burns appear on the skin that resemble nettle burns
Paraoncological - a case when the development of a rash begins from the appearance of a tumor

In general, several dozen types of dermatitis are distinguished in medicine, but there are also the most commonly diagnosed ones.

Dry dermatitis

This type of disease manifests itself exclusively in the cold season, more often diagnosed in elderly and senile patients. The causes of dry dermatitis are:

dry indoor air;
prolonged exposure to cold air;
diseases of a functional / organic nature;
hereditary and psychosomatic factors.

Dry dermatitis has a clear localization - on the feet and rarely manifests itself in other parts of the body. Symptoms of dry dermatitis are considered to be:

excessively dry skin on the feet;
cracking flaky spots on the feet;
itching at the site of the skin disease;
redness of the affected skin.

A distinctive feature of this type of dermatitis is its long course and clear seasonality of exacerbations.

A sign of age or a symptom of illness

And the dryness of the skin and its excessive sensitivity, just cause a desire to scratch.

If a person has already crossed the 65-year age limit, there is nothing pathological here, although the sensations, of course, are unpleasant and sometimes they do not even let you fall asleep.

Senile itching manifests itself in each person in different ways, but it is usually characterized by:

fluctuations in seizures: from mild to severe;
exacerbations and recessions that replace one another;
absence of rashes or suppuration on the skin;
the fact that even after very frequent scratching, no traces remain on the skin, and the nails, on the contrary, acquire the effect of polishing;
at night, the skin itches especially strongly.

Dermatosis symptoms

Itching can be of different strength, but more often it affects the representatives of the stronger sex. Often the intensity is such that the patient cannot endure.

The duration of the disease can be months. But not always the patient's body is covered with scratches.

In some patients, from continuous scratching, the fingernails are polished, and the skin becomes dry, covered with boils, age spots, and eczematous foci.

This unpleasant phenomenon is explained by metabolic disorders, desiccation of the dermis, and atherosclerotic processes. It is most pronounced at night and can spread to any part of the body.

In some patients, the disease develops during menopause.

The spots are smooth, over time bubbles form in their place, all this merges together and forms a huge focus of inflammation. Inside the blisters, large or small, there is liquid.

If there is an infection inside, then the liquid is cloudy. Over time, the blisters burst, forming erosion.

When it passes, a trace or scar remains on the skin. A rash can appear anywhere except the palms, soles, mucous membranes.

Most often on the arms, legs, shoulder blades, buttocks. In addition to the rash, Duhring's dermatitis herpetiformis has a number of symptoms:

The rash is very itchy, tingling, burning sensation
Body temperature rises
Man suffering from insomnia
Feeling of general weakness of the body
Gray greasy stool
Thyroid dysfunction

When a woman is pregnant, such a disease may appear in the second trimester. With treatment, you must be very careful not to harm the fetus. If such symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor for help.

The disease begins acutely with the formation of foci of polymorphic rash. At the onset of the disease, the patient is disturbed by the following manifestations:

red spots;
blisters;
puffiness;
bubbles;
ring-shaped arrangement of bubbles.

All changes in the skin, as a rule, are accompanied by itching or burning. The sun and stress, which also irritate the skin, can intensify inflammation.

Diagnosis of herpetiform dermatitis

There is a very easy way to identify the disease:

The patient needs to conduct an iodine test. To do this, take petroleum jelly and potassium iodide, make an ointment, apply it to a compress.

Such a compress should be kept for a day on a healthy part of the body. If blisters, a rash or inflammation appear on the body in a day, the person is sick with dermatitis.

If there is nothing, then the compress is removed. The patient must be referred for testing.

Blood is given, samples of bubbles are taken. If a high concentration of eosinophils is found in them, a person has dermatitis herpetiformis.

An analysis is carried out for the biological component, which will show in detail the presence of the disease. Older people should definitely be checked for the absence of tumors.

In parallel, the doctor may prescribe an ultrasound, x-ray, CT scan of the kidneys. This is due to the fact that this type of disease is closely related to oncology.

Local treatment

With age, the functional activity of the liver and kidneys decreases. Therefore, the half-life of drugs increases, and their use in therapeutic doses can lead to significant side effects.
Topical treatment is safer, but in some patients it is difficult due to physical and cognitive impairment.
The multiplicity of causes leading to the development of senile itching makes it difficult to choose a drug that will be effective in each specific case.

Depending on the detected changes in the functioning of organs and systems, the following drugs may be prescribed:

With the appearance of such a serious illness, treatment should be comprehensive. Getting rid of dermatitis herpetiformis (Duhring's disease) is quite difficult, so several methods are used at once. Malyshevsky. With drug treatment, doctors prescribe a sulfonic group of drugs:

Sulfasalazine is an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial agent prescribed by a doctor. It has contraindications, so be sure to read the annotation
Diucifon is a powder used in the treatment of rashes on the body. Has contraindications
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid if sulfones fail. It has anti-allergic, anti-toxic effect. There are many contraindications
Erius is an antihistamine prescribed to relieve itching.

The places affected by the disease must be constantly treated with a solution of potassium permanganate or brilliant green. You can buy antihistamine ointments.

It is mandatory to take vitamin complexes, because the body after taking such medicines loses many useful substances.

For the treatment of dermatitis and the prevention of secondary infection, the non-hormonal Skin-cap (externally) is used, the active ingredient of which is zinc pyrithione.

Its effectiveness is not lower than that of hormonal drugs. Skin-cap is not characterized by side effects noted for hormonal drugs.

It has anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial effects. In cases of weeping dermatitis, it is better to use an aerosol, in dry cases - a cream that provides additional skin hydration.

Skin-cap can also be used for children after the first year of life. The drug is applied to the skin twice a day.

Types of dermatitis

There are two main types of dermatitis: contact or allergic and atopic or hereditary.

Atopic dermatitis is a complex disease that most often manifests itself in childhood or in newborns.

Common forms of dermatitis include coin-like and herpetiform dermatitis, eczema, and seborrhea.

The name coin-like dermatitis is associated with external manifestations of inflammation, in the form of round spots appearing on the limbs and resembling coins.

With dermatitis herpetiformis, blisters appear symmetrically located most often on the knees, elbows, buttocks and shoulders. The cause of such dermatitis can be intestinal disorders and weakness of the immune system.

The most common form of dermatitis is eczema. At the same time, blisters filled with liquid with an unpleasant odor appear on the skin. The contents of the blisters ooze slowly at first, then the blisters burst.

With the defeat of the scalp and face, we are talking about such a form of dermatitis as seborrhea.

Treatment of dermatitis with potatoes

The development of dermatitis can begin even after undergoing an X-ray examination. In this case, freshly squeezed potato juice is considered an effective anti-inflammatory and therapeutic agent.

To obtain juice, potatoes should be washed, peeled and grated on a fine grater. Put the potato mass on the gauze, lay gauze in several layers and attach it to the affected area.

The compress must be kept for two hours, after which it is replaced with a new one. At night, it is necessary to apply propolis ointment to the skin.

Geranium oil

General activities play an important role:

Diet: exclusion of spicy foods, smoked meats, chocolate, citrus fruits, eggs, strong broths, cocoa, whole cow's milk;
The room where the patient is most often located is cleaned every day (wet cleaning), ventilated. Such things are unacceptable: carpets, aquariums, pet hair, flowering plants;
Clothes are comfortable, spacious, made of natural materials;
Stabilize rest, sleep, avoid stress;
Sanitize foci of chronic infection.

I suggest watching a video where a woman talks about how she treated her child's illness:

The pathogenesis of the disease is affected in a complex way:

neutralize the negative impact of the identified pathogenic factor;
helping to manage symptoms;
restoration and strengthening of the body's immune system.

Treatment of dermatitis occurs until the moment of complete regeneration of the skin (healing of damaged areas). As a rule, this process takes at least 28 days.

dietary rules

Disease prevention

Treatment is prescribed to the patient based on the results of the examination. Self-treatment in this situation can only aggravate the situation. Treatment of anogenital itching involves the elimination of the provoking factor.

Methods of therapy that will help get rid of the problem:

Dühring's dermatitis is classified as a chronic disease. Relapses can occur throughout the life of the patient.

To avoid relapses, complications, follow the recommendations of a dermatologist. Preventive measures include:

Diet tracking. It is necessary to exclude from it iodine-containing products (seafood, walnuts, medicines containing iodine), cereals (rye, oats, wheat, barley).
Be on dispensary observation, regularly undergo examinations.

Mode and nutrition

To reduce the intensity of itching, it is of particular importance to follow the recommendations regarding the regimen and nutrition.

When the human body is struck by dermatitis herpetiformis, one must definitely think about a diet that will help get rid of the disease faster. It is strictly forbidden to eat: Beans, cereals, flour, kvass, beer, sweets, foods containing honey, cabbage.

Everything else is possible, so eating right with such a disease is not difficult. Be sure to include lean meats, broths, vegetables, and dairy products in your diet.

From drinks only natural black coffee, mineral water without iodine. Eat plenty of greens, olives, olives.

Wrinkles and other skin changes may well begin decades before you consider yourself "older". Find out if these problems can be prevented and treated.

Skin Diseases: Skin Conditions in the Elderly

As we get older, our skin goes through many changes. Depending on your age, the condition of your skin will depend on several factors: your lifestyle, diet, heredity and other personal habits (such as smoking).

Length of sun exposure is the main cause of skin damage. Sun damage to the skin occurs due to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, which significantly destroys the elastic tissue (elastin) of the skin and causes the skin to stretch, sag, wrinkle and become patchy, sometimes with detectable precancerous growths and even skin cancer.

Other possible influences on skin and skin aging factors include loss of fatty tissue between your skin and muscles (subcutaneous supporting tissue), emotional tension or stress, simple gravity, daily movement of facial muscles and other head tissues (smile, wrinkled expression, etc.). etc.) and obesity.

Skin changes that accompany aging include:

Rough or dry skin

Nevi (birthmarks) and other benign and precancerous growths (keratosis)

Sagging facial skin, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and jaws (chin line)

Translucent or thin skin

Bruises and bruises develop easily due to reduced elasticity

Common skin conditions in the elderly

Wrinkles: Wrinkles are the most visible sign of aging skin. They follow chronic sun exposure and are the form when the skin loses its flexibility. Smokers tend to have more wrinkles than non-smokers.

Facial movement lines: These lines (often known as "laugh lines" and "worry lines") become more visible as the skin loses its elasticity (as the age of 40s or 50s is reached). The lines may be horizontal on the forehead, vertical above the nose, or curved at the temples, upper cheeks, and around the mouth and eyes.

Dry and itchy skin: Dry, flaky skin is a common problem among adults, especially the older group. The loss of sebaceous glands (which help keep the skin soft) is the main cause of dry skin. Although rare, dry, itchy skin can also be a sign of diabetes, kidney stones, or liver disease.

Skin Cancer: Exposure to direct sunlight (UV radiation) is the most common cause of precancerous conditions and skin cancer itself, and basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma should also be noted.

Many people (a million of them every year) develop skin cancer before the age of 65.

Age spots: So-called "age spots" are brown spots that appear on sun-exposed parts of the body (face, hands and forearms), usually during the "adult" years of life.

Pressure ulcers: Pressure ulcers (also known as pressure ulcers) are skin ulcers that develop from pressure when people lie in bed or sit in a chair for long periods of time.

Pressure ulcers are a fairly common condition that occurs in older people, especially those who find it difficult to move independently. People suffering from diabetes are more prone to pressure ulcers due to their poor circulation. Frequent rotation or repositioning helps prevent bedsores.

How is the treatment of such pathological conditions?

Wrinkles: Wrinkles cannot be "healed", but their appearance can be significantly "softened" with the help of the drug tretinoin (or otherwise the so-called Renova brand).

Dry Skin: The best treatment for dry skin should be to lubricate it through the regular use of OTC products, ie. ready-made lotions. Moisturizers help hydrate (retain moisture) in the skin. Humidifiers also help hydrate the skin. But frequent bathing, on the contrary, can worsen the condition and lead to an increase in dryness of the skin.

Skin Cancer: A "changing mole" or growth (growth) on the skin deserves a visit to a dermatologist and possibly a biopsy if you are concerned about this risk of developing skin cancer.

Can these diseases be prevented?

Nothing can "remove" the damaging effects of the sun, but the skin can in some cases repair itself. Here are some tips that can help keep your skin healthy for a long time.

Apply sunscreen when you are outdoors. Sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more provides the most protection in this regard.

Wear a hat and long sleeves when you are outdoors, and wear sunglasses that block UV rays from reaching your skin.

Avoid using sunbathing booths and UV lamps.

Examine yourself regularly for "changes in birthmarks" and see if any new growths have appeared.