Itchy skin may have many underlying causes, from dry skin to
serious skin infections. Here are some common tips on how to deal with this
problem:
Do not scratch
The foremost tip is not to scratch. The main reason is that
you may break the skin and sores may develop. Apply crushed ice wrapped in a
towel to the area.
Take a soothing bath
Tie a cup of oatmeal in a cheesecloth bag, and swish the bag
through warm bathwater until the water looks milky. Alternatively, add half a
cup of salt to a bath of tepid water. Soak in the bath for about 10 minutes.
Use calamine lotion
Calamine lotion will help for itchy skin. However, do not
apply it if you have an infection, in such cases; consult a doctor before
treating a rash in this way. Also, limit the use of the lotion to four or five
days. If the itching still persists, see a doctor.
Experiment with
different fabrics
Many people cannot tolerate wool; others react badly to dyes
and synthetics. Your detergent and fabric-softener may also be the culprit. Try
putting clothes through an extra rinse cycle. Wear plain white cotton, which
seldom provokes reaction, next to the skin.
Watch what you eat or
drink
If you tend to have itchy skin, watch what you eat and
drink. Coffee, alcohol and spicy or steaming hot foods cause the blood vessels
in the skin’s outer layer to swell and can trigger itching. Also try to avoid
excessive heat, especially from lying in the sun, and tension and stress.
Daniel
