To treat the itch, you'd first have to establish the cause, e.g. skin dryness - a common symptom of menopause, sun exposure or allergy. Keeping a diary to record your meals, activities and when the itching occurs may help you to make the connection.
Something else to take into consideration is any medication you're taking at the same time the itching occurs, as this may also be linked to your symptoms.
In the meantime, there are things you can do to help manage the itching and/or soreness you’re experiencing.
Self-help tips to relieve itchy skin and soreness
- Patting/tapping the affected area rather than scratching
- Applying a cold compress or flannel to the affected area for 10 minutes at a time when required
- If relevant, minimising spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine as these influence blood flow and are linked with itching symptoms
- Bathing with cool or lukewarm water (avoid hot) and patting skin dry after bathing rather than rubbing
- Minimising bathing time to less than 20 minutes
- Reducing your use of perfumed soaps, shower gels and lotions
- Avoiding tight fitting and irritating garments e.g. wool, and wearing cotton whenever possible
- General nail health to minimise the damage caused by scratching.
Over the counter treatments for itching
- Eurax cream has an anti-itching component. It’s usually recommended to be used two to three times daily and its affect lasts between 6 to 10 hours.
- Another option would be antihistamine tablets or topical cream but please ask the pharmacist for advice on the side effects associated with different types of antihistamine before using. For example, some can cause drowsiness so wouldn’t be suitable to take prior to driving or using heavy machinery. Find out more in our NHS factsheet on antihistamines.
If symptoms fail to improve after a week or two of following the above suggestions, I suggest you speak to your GP. They’ll be able to help to identify the cause of the itching and manage your symptoms going forward.
Answered by the Health at Hand team.
Sources and further reading
What causes irritating itchy skin? – AXA Health
NHS 2021, Itchy skin. (Accessed 1 March 2021)
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