Itchy skin (pruritus) - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
WEBJan 17, 2024 · Itchy skin is an irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch. It's also called pruritus (proo-RIE-tus). Itchy skin is often caused by dry skin and is common in older adults, as skin tends to become drier with age.
Itching in the Elderly: Causes and Treatments - ElderWise
WEBHow to Get Help with Itching in the Elderly. If you’re suffering from excessive and uncomfortable itching, you should first consult your doctor. They will determine if there is a serious underlying cause and discuss medications, including antihistamines and skin creams. When there is no serious underlying cause, you can try the following:
Management of Itch in the Elderly: A Review - PMC - National …
WEBSep 23, 2019 · Chronic itch is a common symptom in the elderly population and may be due to age-related changes in the skin, primary dermatologic conditions, systemic disease, neuropathic diseases, or medications. Determining the underlying cause of chronic itch is necessary for appropriate treatment.
Pruritus in the elderly – a guide to assessment and management
WEBThe most common cause of itchy skin in the elderly, especially in autumn and winter is xerosis or dry skin. This ‘dry skin’ is quite evident on skin examination, being most pronounced on the lower legs, anteriorly, but also affecting the upper limbs and back.
What Causes Itchy Skin in the Elderly? - Griswold
WEBNov 4, 2021 · Itchy skin, also known as pruritus, can be quite annoying and debilitating. This is common in older adults because skin becomes drier, and therefore itchier, with age. However, this problem can be helped by determining the causes and performing some management techniques.
Treating Pruritus in Older Adults - Today's Geriatric Medicine
WEBThe dermatologic condition of xerosis (dry skin) is the most common cause of pruritus in the geriatric population. Other dermatological causes include inflammatory skin diseases, eczema, psoriasis, insect bites/hives, burns, scars, irritants, and allergic reactions.
Pathophysiology and Treatment of Pruritus in Elderly
WEBDec 26, 2020 · Introduction. Pruritus is a relatively common symptom that anyone can experience at any point in their life especially in elderly population. Pruritus in elderly can be defined as idiopathic chronic pruritus in a person over 65 years old. Pruritus may present with or without skin lesions.
How to Soothe Itchy Skin as You Age - Consumer Reports
WEBDec 29, 2022 · Consumer Reports explains how to find relief for itchy skin. Scratching may make things worse. Here's what to know about the creams that can offer lasting relief.
Pruritus in the Elderly - PMC - National Center for Biotechnology ...
WEBPruritus is the most common skin disorder in the geriatric population. 1 It is defined as an unpleasant cutaneous sensation that provokes the desire to scratch. 2 Acute itch (lasting less than 6 weeks) may provide a protective function, but chronic itch (lasting more than 6 weeks) is mostly a nuisance. 3 The prevalence of pruritus increases ...
Signs That Itch Is a Medical Problem - Cleveland Clinic Health …
WEBJul 19, 2024 · Usually, itchy skin is caused by dry skin. But in some cases, an itch can signal other undiagnosed medical issues that need medical attention.