Disease: Neurodermatitis

Overview

Neurodermatitis is a skin condition that starts with a patch of itchy skin. Scratching makes it even itchier. This itch-scratch cycle causes the affected skin to become thick and leathery. You may develop several itchy spots, typically on the neck, wrist, forearm, thigh or ankle.

Neurodermatitis — also known as lichen simplex chronicus — is not life-threatening or contagious. But the itching can be so intense or recurrent that it disrupts your sleep, sexual function and quality of life.

Breaking the itch-scratch cycle of neurodermatitis is challenging. Treatment success depends on resisting the urge to rub or scratch the affected areas. Over-the-counter and prescription creams can help ease the itching. You'll also need to identify and eliminate factors that may be aggravating the problem.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of neurodermatitis include:

  • An itchy skin patch or patches
  • Leathery or scaly texture on the affected areas
  • A raised, rough patch or patches that are red or darker than the rest of your skin

The condition involves areas that can be reached for scratching — the head, neck, wrist, forearm, ankle, vulva, scrotum or anus. The itchiness, which can be intense, may come and go or be nonstop. You may scratch out of habit and while sleeping.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if:

  • You catch yourself repeatedly scratching the same patch of skin
  • The itch prevents you from sleeping or focusing on your daily routines
  • Your skin becomes painful or looks infected

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Causes

The exact cause of neurodermatitis isn't known. Sometimes neurodermatitis begins with something that simply rubs or irritates the skin, such as tight clothing or a bug bite. As you rub or scratch the area, it gets itchier. The more you scratch, the more it itches.

In some cases, neurodermatitis is associated with other skin conditions — such as dry skin, eczema or psoriasis. Stress and anxiety can trigger itching too.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Diagnosis

Your doctor may diagnose neurodermatitis by examining the affected skin and determining whether you've been itching and scratching. To rule out other causes, he or she may take a small sample of the affected skin (skin biopsy) for testing.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Complications

Persistent scratching can lead to a wound, a bacterial skin infection, or permanent scars and changes in skin color. Scratching may also disrupt your sleep.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Lifestyle and home remedies

These self-care measures can help you manage neurodermatitis:

  • Stop rubbing and scratching. The itching may be intense, but rubbing and scratching worsen the situation.
  • Apply cool, wet compresses. These may soothe the skin and relieve the itch. Putting a cool, wet compress on the affected skin for a few minutes before you apply a medicated cream helps it soak into the skin.
  • Try over-the-counter medications. Apply an anti-itch cream or lotion to the affected area. A hydrocortisone cream can temporarily relieve the itch. An oral antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others) can relieve severe itching and help you sleep. Some people have had success with capsaicin (kap-SAY-ih-sin) cream, but it may sting at first.
  • Cover the affected area. Bandages or dressings can help protect the skin and prevent scratching. These may be especially useful if you scratch during your sleep.
  • Keep your nails trimmed. Short nails may do less damage to the skin, especially if you tend to scratch while you're asleep.
  • Take warm baths and moisturize your skin. Prepare your bath with warm — not hot — water. Sprinkle in baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal (Aveeno, others). Use mild soaps without dyes or perfumes. After washing, apply unscented moisturizer to protect your skin.
  • Avoid triggers. Notice what seems to bring on a recurrence and avoid it. For example, use stress management techniques and wear clothing that isn't itchy.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Risk factors

Certain factors may affect your risk of neurodermatitis, including:

  • Your sex and age. Women are more likely to develop neurodermatitis than are men. The condition is most common between ages 30 and 50.
  • Other skin conditions. People with a personal or family history of dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis or similar skin conditions are more likely to develop neurodermatitis.
  • Anxiety disorders. Anxiety and stress can trigger the itch associated with neurodermatitis.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

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