Itchy feet: treatment

Effective treatment of itching on the feet is impossible without an accurate diagnosis. After all, the treatment of insect bites is fundamentally different from the therapy of skin diseases, internal organs and even more so oncological diseases. The only common point for all diseases is the need to eliminate the unpleasant symptom as soon as possible, because scratching the skin threatens to traumatize it and get into the wounds of infection, which only exacerbates the situation.

To eliminate itching of the skin on the legs in traditional medicine apply medicinal ointments and creams externally, and internally antihistamines with antipruritic effect, and sedatives: sedatives, and if necessary (mental disorders) and anxiolytics.

Among other things, the patient may be prescribed a diet that is easy on the digestive system and reduces the risk of allergic reactions, as well as physiotherapeutic treatment: electrosleep, mud baths, contrast showers, etc., depending on the diagnosis.

The treatment regimen is tailored to the identified disease. For example, topical antipruritic agents and oral antihistamines are often sufficient to treat allergies. However, if contact with allergens is not avoided, the symptoms will recur again and again.

This approach is not typical for the treatment of fungal diseases, although antihistamines to reduce the severity of itching are still prescribed. Antimycotics - antifungal agents that need to be applied to the skin regularly for several days and sometimes taken internally - are effective against fungi.

The therapeutic regimens for eczema and psoriasis differ from allergy treatment. Treatment of eczema is rarely without the use of hormonal anti-inflammatory ointments and sedatives in combination with antihistamines to relieve itching and reduce tissue swelling. In addition, here a special place is given to immunomodulators and vitamin complexes, which should optimize the response of the immune system, making it more adequate. Since eczema often forms cracks and micro-wounds, infection can get into them. If a fungal or bacterial infection is activated, antifungal or antibacterial ointments are added to the treatment regimen.

In psoriasis is effective irradiation of the affected area with ultraviolet light. To increase the remission period of this chronic disease helps a special diet and unloading days. Along with antihistamines here prescribe vitamins, hormonal ointments, sedatives, immunomodulators autohemotherapy. With all this disease often continues to progress. In severe cases, corticosteroids, tranquilizers, cytostatics are prescribed.

In neurodermatitis, a special place is given to diet. Excluding products and additives that can cause allergies. Drug treatment in addition to antihistamines includes the appointment of immunomodulators, vitamins, drugs that are beneficial to the gastrointestinal tract and normalize its work, sedatives. At the same time, it is very important to avoid nervous and mental fatigue, maintain immunity, try to follow the daily regimen, etc.

Diabetes mellitus patients are maintained by diet and taking sugar-reducing medication or insulin. In case of itching on the feet, anti-itch ointments or antihistamines that do not contain sugar can be used.

In varicose veins, specific drug treatment is used to normalize venous blood flow, wearing compression underwear, pressotherapy. In the formation of large nodules previously resorted to surgical treatment, but today are limited to minimally invasive operations that do not leave traces. Treatment of itching is again carried out with the help of ointments and antihistamines.

Surgical treatment is prescribed mainly for cancer in combination with radiation and chemotherapy, as well as in severe pathologies of internal organs.

It is easiest to treat insect bites. In this case, first (if necessary) remove the sting, and then apply an antiseptic to the wound, which should prevent severe inflammation and suppuration. Ointments with antibiotics should be used only on the prescription of a doctor, if the wound got into the infection and began severe suppuration. This is done only if antiseptics are ineffective.

If the wound is swollen, it is an allergic reaction to an insect bite. In such situations, hormonal ointments may be prescribed to relieve swelling and itching, and antihistamines (anti-allergic drugs) may be administered internally.

Oral remedies for itchy feet

As we can see, whatever the scheme of treatment of various diseases to combat such a symptom as itchy feet, the same groups of drugs are used: antihistamines with antipruritic effect and hormonal drugs (mainly for topical application). These drugs help to reduce the severity of the symptom and fight some of the causes of its occurrence.

Let's start with antihistamines prescribed for itching and allergic reactions orally. Doctors give preference to such drugs as Diazolin, Loratadine, Atarax, Tavegil, Zyrtec and so on.

"Loratadine" - a drug with anti-allergic and antipruritic action, which prevents the development of edema and pain due to muscle spasm. It is prescribed for skin itching of various origins and localization. It does not have a toxic effect on the fetus, so doctors often prescribe it even in pregnancy (mainly in allergies).

Patients over 12 years of age are prescribed 1 tablet (10 mg) per day. In children, the effective dose depends on the body weight of the child. If it is more than 30 kg, you can give an adult dose, if less - the dosage is halved (5 mg). For children, it is better to give the drug in the form of syrup, given that 10 ml contains 10 mg of loratadine.

In renal dysfunction dosage correction is not required, but in severe liver pathologies the dosage is reduced, starting from 10 mg once every 2 days (for patients with body weight more than 30 kg).

The drug is administered to children over 2 years of age. At a younger age only with the permission of a pediatrician. Hypersensitivity to its components is a contraindication to taking the drug.

Side effects of the drug rarely develop. Drowsiness, headache, increased appetite, sleep disorders, nervousness and rapid fatigue (in children) were mentioned most often. But all these symptoms appeared not more often than in 2 patients out of 100. Other unpleasant manifestations are observed very rarely.

"Zyrtec" - a new-generation antihistamine drug that practically does not cause drowsiness. It can be used to eliminate itching on the feet of any etiology. Does not cause addiction, the effect of the drug does not decrease with prolonged use. It is available in drops, which can be given to children from six months of age, and tablets.

Treatment of itching should be started with a dosage of 5 mg per day, if necessary increasing to 10 mg (1 tablet or 20 ml of solution). Infants can be given no more than 5 ml per day, toddlers up to 6 years - 5 ml twice a day or 10 ml once.

The dose is reduced if the patient has impaired kidney and liver function. In case of diseased liver, the dosage remains normal.

Contraindications to the use of the drug are individual intolerance, children under 6 months of age for drops and under 6 years of age for tablets, severe renal failure, breastfeeding. In pregnancy, the drug is prescribed only in extreme cases under the supervision of a doctor. The drug is used with caution in case of convulsive readiness and predisposition to urinary disorders.

As for side effects, the most common are considered to be: headache and dizziness, increased fatigue, dry mouth and nausea, inflammation of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa. Allergic reactions to the drug itself are rare, but may be accompanied by rash and itching.

"Atarax" - a drug that belongs to the group of anxiolytics with antihistamine and bronchodilator effect, reducing the likelihood of asphyxia as a result of allergic swelling of the respiratory tract. Calms the nervous system, effectively relieves itching, alleviating the course of diseases of allergic nature. Often used in urticaria, dermatitis, eczema. Does not have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract

The drug in 25 mg tablets is approved for use from 3 years of age. For the treatment of pruritus in children it is prescribed depending on the age and body weight of the child. For body weight up to 17 kg, a dose equal to 0.5-1 tablet is prescribed per day. Children of preschool age with a body weight of 17-23 kg, the dose can be increased to 1.5 tablets, with a body weight of 23-28 kg - up to 2 tablets. Adolescents whose body weight is above 28 kg are prescribed from 1 to 3 tablets per day.

Patients whose weight exceeds 40 kg can take up to 4 tablets per day to relieve itching symptoms.

The dose for patients with renal and hepatic impairment may be reduced by 33-50%.

The duration of treatment is set individually by the attending physician.

Contraindications to the use of "Atarax" are considered hypersensitivity to its components, porphyria, cardiovascular pathologies with prolongation of the QT interval. Do not prescribe the drug in pregnancy and breastfeeding, since it penetrates the placental barrier and into breast milk, provoking CNS disorders in the child. Lactose content makes it impossible to administer the drug to patients with impaired metabolism of this substance and its derivatives.

Common side effects include drowsiness, headache, apathy, dry mouth and increased fatigue. Dizziness, insomnia, tremor, fever, nausea, general weakness are also possible, but they occur infrequently (no more than 1 patient out of 100). Other side effects are rarely diagnosed, anaphylactic reactions - in isolated cases.

"Fenistil" in the form of drops is used to treat allergies and as an effective remedy for itching on the legs and body. Can be prescribed both for insect bites and diseases with skin manifestations (dermatoses, eczema, dermatitis, chickenpox, measles, rubella, etc.). Authorized for use from 1 month of age.

For children, the drug is prescribed taking into account the body weight of the baby. Infants are usually prescribed from 3 to 10 drops per administration. Babies 1-3 years - from 10 to 15 drops, children up to 12 years - from 15 to 20 drops. The adult dose is 20 to 40 drops.

The pleasant taste of the drug allows you to take it undiluted.

The frequency of taking the drug at any age is 3 times a day, and the duration of treatment is set individually.

Do not prescribe the drug in case of individual intolerance to its components, bronchial asthma, closed-angle glaucoma, prostatic hyperplasia. Women are not recommended to take the drug in the first 3 months of pregnancy and during lactation.

The most common side effect of the drug is considered drowsiness. Less frequently, patients complain of drying of the oral mucosa, nausea, headaches, dizziness. It is possible to develop depression in patients with mental lability.

Ointments and creams for itchy feet

It should be said that it makes sense to resort to taking tablets if a serious allergic reaction or systemic disease develops, when topical treatment does not bring the desired effect. Sometimes doctors prescribe both oral medication and topical treatment at the same time. In most cases, however, to relieve itching on the feet can do without external application of special ointments and creams.

Ointments "Lorinden A" and "Lorinden C" based on a hormonal agent (flumetasone) with antiseptics (salicylic acid and clioquinol, respectively). The first drug is effective for relieving itching in diseases not complicated by bacterial infection, the second can be used with bacterial complications. They are used in the treatment of dermatitis, urticaria, psoriasis, shingles, etc.

The drug is applied topically, applying a thin layer to the affected area up to 2 times a day, so that no more than 1 tube is used per week. Since it is a hormonal agent, it can be used without interruption for no more than 14 days. If the lesion is located on the face, this period is reduced to 7 days.

It is allowed to apply the ointment under occlusive dressing. Avoid contact with the eyes.

Ointments are allowed for use from the age of 12. They are used very carefully, in adolescence do not apply to the face. During pregnancy, it is allowed to use ointments for a short period of time, except for the 1st trimester. When it is necessary to refrain from such treatment. When breastfeeding, the drug is used briefly and not in the area of the mammary glands.

Do not use ointments in case of hypersensitivity to their components, viral (herpes, chicken pox) and fungal diseases, acne, skin tumors, inflammation and ulceration of varicose veins, skin tuberculosis. Do not apply to large surfaces containing wounds and scratches.

Frequent side effects are changes in the skin at the site of ointment application (dryness, pigmentation disorders, burning sensation, inflammation of hair follicles, etc.). Ointments can adversely affect the cardiovascular and endocrine system, but mainly with prolonged use. In children, corticosteroid inhibits growth and development, so its use is highly undesirable.

"Sinaflan" - hormonal ointment, which is prescribed for various inflammatory skin diseases of non-bacterial origin, accompanied by itching, swelling of tissues and other unpleasant symptoms.

Apply the ointment up to 2 times a day, applying a small layer to the affected area. The duration of treatment should not exceed 2 weeks.

For children, the ointment should be applied only once a day for no more than 5 days and under a doctor's supervision. It can be used only once on the face.

The drug is prescribed to patients over 2 years of age in the absence of individual sensitivity to its components. Contraindications include multiple manifestations of psoriasis, thrombophlebitis, acne, infectious skin diseases of different etiologies and bacterial complications, skin tumors. Do not use the ointment after vaccinations, on large areas of skin and wounds.

Side effects include skin irritation, development of dermatitis, urticaria. Sometimes there are: decreased immunity, hypersensitivity reactions, edema, increased BP, cataract, glaucoma. More severe symptoms are possible with prolonged use. These include the development of gastritis or stomach ulcers and a high risk of infectious diseases.

"Advantan" - a hormonal remedy in the form of ointment, which can be treated for children from 4 months. It is prescribed for allergic diseases. It has an antipruritic effect.

Most often, the ointment is prescribed once a day. It is applied in a thin layer only on the affected or itchy area. Adults can use the medicine for up to 3 months, children not more than 28 days.

The cream should not be applied under a bandage that does not allow air to pass. Identical situation can be and when wrapped in diapers, so with infants should be careful.

Contraindications to the use of cream are hypersensitivity to the drug, skin manifestations of tuberculosis and syphilis, viral, fungal and bacterial diseases with skin rash, acne, some types of dermatitis.

Among the side effects, the most frequent complaints are complaints of burning at the site of application of the drug. There may also be drying of the skin, rash, inflammation of hair follicles, skin sensitivity disorders in the area where the ointment is applied. Hypersensitivity reactions also occur.

If itching on the feet is associated with local bacterial infection, use slightly different types of ointments that combine the anti-inflammatory effect of corticosteroids and antimicrobial action of additional components. The most commonly used ointments are "Baneocin" and "Triderm".

"Triderm" - a drug in the form of an ointment that combines anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, antibacterial and antifungal action. And all this is possible due to the combination of three components: corticoid betamethasone, a broad-spectrum antibiotic gentamicin and a popular antimycotic clotrimazole. Such ointment can be used for bacterial and fungal skin infections, as well as complications caused by the introduction of these microorganisms into the wound in non-infectious skin lesions.

The drug is intended for the treatment of adult patients. The ointment is applied not only to the affected area, but also to the surrounding skin near it, gently rubbing. The frequency of application is 2 times a day. Duration of treatment depends on the nature of the disease and sensitivity of microorganisms to the components of the drug. Do not apply under occlusive dressings and for the treatment of nail fungus.

Contraindications to the use of the drug are similar to other anti-inflammatory ointments. The drug is not used in pediatrics due to high theoretical risk of its effect on the CNS, which causes delayed growth and development of the child, increased intracranial pressure, etc.

In pregnancy, the ointment is recommended only in extreme cases. No negative effects on the fetus in animals have been found, but due to the fact that aminoglycosides (gentamicin) penetrate the placental barrier and can cause many side effects, it is better to consider this risk.

Among the reported side effects, the most frequently mentioned are: skin irritation at the application site, burning, temporary increase in itching, dryness of the skin. Other symptoms are associated with prolonged application of the ointment or its use on skin with wounds, ulcers, burn surfaces.

If there is no severe inflammation requiring corticoid therapy, and it is not an infectious skin disease or a complication of a non-infectious disease, there is no need to use potent drugs. Still, hormonal drugs can cause serious disorders in the body. In this case, you can turn to the help of the well-known drug "Fenistil", which has a popular form of release in the form of gel.

This drug can be used to relieve itching on the feet of both young mothers and young children. It does not have a negative effect on the fetus, does not penetrate into breast milk. The main thing is not to use it on large areas and in places of skin damage.

The gel is used alone. It is not combined with other topical antipruritics.

The medicine can be applied to the skin up to 4 times a day with a thin layer. If the itching is severe and does not go away after applying the ointment, the doctor may recommend the combined use of "Fenistil in the form of gel and drops or use hormonal agents.

Gel increases skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light, so during treatment with the drug it is better to avoid sunbathing, protecting the skin from aggressive rays.

The main contraindication to the use of the topical form of the drug is considered hypersensitivity to its components. In the treatment of children, the gel is not used on large areas of lesions and in the presence of wounds on the skin of the legs at the application site.

The most common side effects are burning and dryness of the skin where the medicine is applied. Other symptoms and allergic reactions are very rare.

We have considered what drugs can be taken in connection with itching on the feet (prescribed by a doctor) and what pharmacy remedies can be treated with itchy skin. But itching is such an agonizing symptom that in the absence of medication at hand, sometimes there is simply no strength to endure while you go to the doctor and the pharmacy. In such a situation, folk remedies help.

Treatment of itchy body skin with folk remedies

Skin itching can have various causes and before using medications, it is necessary to clarify what is associated with the appearance of the symptom. For the application of folk remedies for itching in general, the cause is not so important. Recipes used in the people, this is an ambulance for an agonizing symptom. Sometimes it is enough, but with itching caused by serious diseases, folk remedies are used only as symptomatic treatment with the obligatory visit to the doctor and fulfillment of his prescriptions.

So what can be done to reduce the severity of itching:

• Treatment with a cold shower or bath. Cold has a distracting effect, reduces inflammation and redness caused by an allergic reaction, and water moisturizes the skin, making it less dry. You can add decoctions of herbs with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect (chamomile, calendula, yarrow, St. John's wort, etc.) or a few drops of essential oil with soothing effect (lavender, thyme, mint, etc.) to the water.
• Relieve itchy feet with a cold compress. This can be a cloth soaked in water or a piece of ice wrapped in a film.
• Soda solution for insect stings. Soda solution is an effective antipruritic remedy, often used to relieve discomfort when stung by bees and bloodsuckers. For a bath is enough to take 150-200 g of soda. The water should be cool.

To treat a small area of skin take 1 tbsp. Of sodium bicarbonate in 200-250 g of water (instead of water you can take infusions of chamomile and calendula). Soak a bandage in the composition and treat the skin at the site of the bite. This treatment is suitable even for children.

You can also mix baking soda and water (or ammonia solution) to a thick paste, from which you make a cake and put it on the bite site, covering it with a damp cloth. Such a compress can be kept on the skin for 3 or more hours.

• Oatmeal paste for itching. Mix oatmeal flour or cereal with a small amount of water and apply the thick composition on the affected area, covering the top with a cloth. Usually the itching goes away within 15-20 minutes or a little more.
• Propolis medicine. To lubricate itchy areas, you can use an ointment or tincture of this useful bee product. Propolis is a natural antibiotic and perfectly helps with infectious complications, but it should be remembered that it, like honey, can itself cause allergies, so its treatment is not suitable for everyone.
• Aloe for itching on the feet and body. Itchy places can be smeared with fresh aloe juice or pharmacy preparation. You can attach a fresh leaf of the plant cut lengthwise and fix it as a compress. Aloe has antiseptic properties, promotes rapid regeneration of the skin, saturates it with moisture and vitamins.

Folk remedies for itchy feet are good for insect bites and dry skin, but their healing effect may not be enough when it comes to serious diseases that require complex treatment. These recipes are good for relieving itching, but do not replace a full treatment, if necessary.

Herbal treatment

Nature is a source of natural medicines that can help with various conditions and diseases. Knowing the useful properties of herbs, they can be used to relieve itching of the skin of any localization. Such treatment is especially useful for children, because it does not have side effects inherent in drugs, especially corticosteroids.

Some herbs are used to care for baby's delicate, sensitive skin from birth. Chamomile soothes the skin and reduces inflammation. This property can be used to relieve itching in a baby (or adult). You can steam 1-2 tbsp. Of herbs in a glass of boiling water, infuse for 15 minutes and wipe this composition itchy skin area or make lotions.

A decoction or infusion of chamomile can be added to the bath for bathing. But it should be remembered that only cool water can relieve itching, and warm and hot water can only make it worse.

Another useful herb is succession. It is her decoction is added to children's baths to prevent skin diseases, relieve symptoms of allergies, irritations. This hypoallergenic herb perfectly helps and with itchy skin on the legs. It can be added to foot baths, use the decoction to wipe the skin, lotions, compresses.

Mockerel can also be used to combat this unpleasant symptom. Fresh leaves of the plant can be applied as a compress to the itchy area of the skin or added to a foot bath.

Peppermint also helps to relieve painful itching. The essential oil of the plant can be used undiluted, applying it to the affected area. Essential oil or fresh mint leaves are added to the bath. However, for greater effect, it is better to pre-boil the leaves in hot water, and then add them to the cool water of the bath.

In addition to the above-mentioned plants have antipruritic effect: elecampane, violet, horsetail, burdock, melissa, dill, nettle and some other herbs. In baths against itching you can also add decoctions of oak bark or birch buds.

Medicinal herbs for itchy feet can be used not only externally. Help relieve the distressing symptom and infusions of plants taken internally. For example, a hot infusion of nettle (10 g of plant material per 1 cup of boiling water), which should be drunk for 3 meals during the day.

The infusion of dill also helps. To prepare it, take 2 tbsp. Seeds and pour 2 cups of boiling water. After half an hour infusion is ready, it should be strained and take 70-80 g three times a day before meals. The course of treatment for 3 weeks.

If there is dill oil, you can use it, dripping on a piece of sugar from 5 to 10 drops. The frequency of intake is 3 times a day.

It is clear that treatment with herbs cannot replace full-fledged drug treatment for most diseases, but as an option it can be used to temporarily relieve symptoms or be part of a complex treatment. However, it should be taken into account that many plants contain substances that can cause allergies, so the choice of natural remedies should be considered carefully and very carefully.

Homeopathic treatment

Homeopathy is a special branch of medicine that promotes self-healing of the body. However, this does not happen without the participation of special preparations created on the basis of plants, minerals, poisons, biological substances and other natural components. Among the large range of homeopathic remedies there are those that help to treat itching on the feet. Their use markedly reduces the severity of the symptom, helping to normalize the work of various systems of the body.

Prescribing homeopathic remedies is a whole science, because here in the foreground is not the official diagnosis, but the specifics of the manifestation of the main symptom and the presence of additional symptoms. There are many homeopathic remedies for itching, the main thing is to use them adequately.

Sulfur (sulfur-based preparation) is prescribed for severe itching, which decreases after scratching, increases with heat and at night, after water procedures.

Alumina may be prescribed for the same symptoms. If they are accompanied by a fine, dry rash.

Cyclamen europeum and Ledum palustre are effective for itchy skin that appears at night in bed.

In case of excruciating itching, which passes into tingling and pain, the preparation of foxglove Digitalis purpurea is prescribed.

Hydrocotyle asiatica and Lithium carbonicum can help relieve itching on the soles of the feet and the sides of the feet. If the itching is in the joints, you can try to treat it with Pinus silvestris (pine extract) or Cinnabaris (cinnabar).

Homeopathic pharmacies offer effective ointments that help fight itching for various conditions:

Ledum ointment helps in the treatment of muscular rheumatism, gout, polyarthritis, and also relieves itching and irritation resulting from insect bites.

Linin ointment can be used if itching occurs on wet foci in skin diseases. It has a drying and wound-healing effect. In case of bacterial complications or increased risk of them, homeopathic Calendula ointment can be used.

Urtica ointment is an effective remedy for severe allergic itching and swelling of tissues. It also helps with insect bites. Good reviews and Inulia ointment, which is effective for allergic rashes and itching, very dry skin, herpetic rash.

For varicose veins, thrombophlebitis and associated with these diseases itching and pain helps ointment Peonia esculus.

Despite the skeptical attitude to homeopathy on the part of doctors of traditional medicine, it is impossible to make a definite conclusion that the method of influencing the body by stimulating its internal reserves does not work. Even if everything is based on self-infusion, and it helps a person to heal, one should not miss such an opportunity, especially since homeopathy has a lot of interesting remedies in store, which are recognized by classical medicine and sold in ordinary pharmacies.

So for children who have itching on the legs and body of allergic nature, allergists recommend Iricar ointment. When used 2-3 times a day, it relieves itching and helps to heal wounds formed as a result of scratching (babies are difficult to keep from this activity). The drug itself does not cause allergies, can be used for a long time without harm to health.

It is important to realize that itching is not a simple symptom. It indicates that some changes have occurred in the body, and it is necessary to take certain measures to return it to normal. And this is often a rather complex process, requiring not only therapeutic measures, but also hygiene, diet therapy (refusal of sweet and spicy foods, alcohol), patience (because scratching the skin increases the risk of bacterial complications).