Protection against pruritus in the elderly

  As older people get older, all of their body functions deteriorate. The skin is certainly not immune. The aging and degeneration of the skin will lead to the weakening of sweat glands, sebaceous glands, skin lack of sebum and moisture nourishment become atrophy, dry, prone to itchy skin, especially in the autumn and winter when the climate is dry, or 1 to 2 days after bathing. This is pruritus senileis.
Geriatric pruritus generally has the following characteristics: occurring mostly in the fall, with the cold and dry climate aggravated, the most serious attacks in winter, to the spring climate turns warm and humid, the symptoms are correspondingly reduced, but in the fall will again attack, forming a cycle.  The site of itching is uncertain, mostly occurring in the upper limbs, back, lower limbs, etc., but some will itch everywhere all over the body. The skin surface is normal.  The higher the room temperature, the more intense the itching, especially during sleep at night.  The degree of itching is more intense, and the elderly therefore scratch the skin with force, often the more they scratch, the more itchy they are. If the epidermis is scratched, it will bleed and crust over. Repeated occurrences will thicken the skin and darken the color.  So, how to protect against senile pruritus?  1. Make the skin avoid all external stimuli as much as possible. Loose and comfortable underwear, preferably cotton products, wash and change regularly. Do not let the skin directly touch woolen fabrics, avoid abrasion.  2, avoid excessive skin cleaning. The number of baths should be properly reduced, the water temperature should not be too hot, avoid using alkaline heavy detergent and soap. After the bath rub with moisturizing effect of skin care products.  3, the temperature is appropriate, the room temperature should not be too high, clothing should not be too warm, in order to reduce the stimulation of sweat secretion.  4, pay attention to diet. Food should be light, eat less stimulating food, eat more fruits and vegetables.  5, try to avoid scratching. It is not advisable to scratch if the itching is intense.  6.Severe cases should go to the hospital, under the guidance of a doctor for treatment.