Neurodermatitis Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Neurodermatitis - A Skin Condition

What is neurodermatitis?

It is a skin condition that begins with an itchy skin patch, however scratching makes it even itchier. Chronic itching may increase the urge to scratch which eventually lead the affected area to become leathery and thick. Another name for nerodermatitis is lichen simplex chronicus. Clearly, the condition is not serious, though you may face challenge after breaking the cycle of ‘itch-scratch’.

Effective treatment tends to focus upon spotting and eliminating the factors which are rooting the problem. Doctors can prescribe creams and over-the-counter in order to ease its symptoms.

What are the symptoms of neurodermatitis?

Few common symptoms include:

  • Scaly or leathery texture of the affected skin.
  • Itchy skin.
  • Red, raised and rough patch.

An obvious symptom of the skin condition is itchy skin, usually a patch on the ankle, thigh, forearm, wrist and neck. Rarely, it affects the genital parts, for example scrotum or vulva. Moreover, the itchiness can be intense and may come and go.

What causes neurodermatitis?

Scientists have failed to understand what exactly causes the skin condition. Sometimes, it starts when something irritates or rubs your skin, for example a bug bite or tight clothing. As you scratch or rub the part, it becomes itchier. More scratching means more the area itches. However, in few cases, it is linked with few other skin problems for example psoriasis, eczema and dry skin. Anxiety and stress can also cause itching.

What are the risk factors of neurodermatitis?

Few factors that tend to increase the risk of developing neurodermatitis are:

  • Being a woman.
  • More common in people between the ages of 30-50.
  • Individuals those have a family or personal history of other skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.
  • Anxiety disorders such as stress and anxiety.

What are the possible complications of neurodermatitis?

Continuous scratching may lead permanent scars and bacterial skin infection. it can also disturb your sleep.

How is neurodermatitis diagnosed?

The affected skin appearance will help the doctor diagnosed neurodermatitis. Moreover, he will need details regarding the history of itching. In order to seek other causes, he may perform skin biopsy.

How is neurodermatitis treated?

In order reduce the cycle of ‘itch-scratch’ it is important to avoid scratching your affected skin. Your doctor can suggest a single or combination of the following options for treating neurodermatitis:

  • Medications: clearly, depending upon the symptoms severity, the doctor can prescribe:
  1. Antibiotics.
  2. Anti-anxiety drugs.
  3. Antihistamines.
  4. Corticosteroids.
  • Therapy: a counselor will help you understand how your behaviors and emotions can prevent or fuel the cycle of itching-scratching.

Home remedies:

In order to reduce the irritation and itch, follow the below mentioned tips:

  • Cover your affected skin, this may help prevent scratching and will protect your skin. Remember, you must stop scratching as it makes your skin even itchier.
  • Trim your nails in order to prevent more damage to your skin.
  • Wear comfortable clothes.
  • Use mild soaps.
  • Do not take stress, avoid being anxious.

By : Natural Health News

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