While it may sound highly scientific, pruritus is merely a technical term for itchy skin. Despite its simple meaning, however, pruritus can be difficult to treat. This is largely because the condition has many possible causes, including dry skin, allergies, parasitic infestations, or even organ or nervous system malfunction. Determining the best pruritus treatment begins with isolating the condition’s cause. Once this has been accomplished, you can relieve your itching skin by removing or treating the cause, which may involve creams, medication, or behavioral changes.
Often, the best initial pruritus treatment is process of elimination, which you can use to narrow down the possible causes of your annoying itchiness. Consider changes, both large and small, that you made shortly before your skin irritation began. For instance, you may have purchased a new pet, begun taking a new medication, or switched to a new laundry detergent. Try removing these changes one by one, lending your pet to a friend for a few days, for instance, or switching back to your old detergent for a week. Should your pruritus clear up, you will have pinpointed its cause and can then adjust your lifestyle or product usage accordingly.
Sometimes, pruritus is a cold-weather-related annoyance caused by indoor heating systems, which can dry the skin. If you notice that your itchiness level tends to rise in tandem with the thermostat, your pruritus is likely due to dry skin. The best pruritus treatment in this case is keeping central heating at a moderate temperature, avoiding very hot baths or showers, and using lotions and anti-inflammatory creams to moisturize and soothe aggravated skin.
Infestation by parasites such as body lice or scabies mites can also lead to pruritus. These parasites, which are fairly easily passed from one infested person to another, cause itching when they bite or burrow into the skin. In the case of parasitic infestation, the best pruritus treatment is usually a body wash or cream designed to eliminate the offending pests. Some of these products are available over the counter, while others require a doctor’s prescription.
If you have tried process of elimination but remain unable to determine the cause of your itchy skin, you should consider consulting your physician. In rare cases, pruritus can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, such as nervous system malfunction or organ failure. Should your doctor determine that your pruritus is a result of a more serious health issue, she will likely treat that underlying issue. Once the appropriate treatment is under way, your itchiness may gradually clear up on its own. In the meantime, your doctor may prescribe a cream or medication to help relieve your discomfort.
